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Being accused of a sex crime is among the most life-altering events a person can live through. Sex crime charges can lead to lengthy incarceration and significant fines. They can also profoundly affect your professional, social, and family life. If you are facing criminal charges relating to sex offenses in Pennsylvania, do not hesitate to contact an experienced sex crimes attorney as soon as possible.
The skilled and knowledgeable criminal defense team at SMT Legal has extensive experience successfully defending clients against sex crime charges in Pennsylvania. When you work with us, we will develop individualized defense strategies to maximize your chances of a favorable result in your case. With so much at stake, you cannot afford to leave your fate to chance. Contact us today for a free and confidential case review to learn more about the legal services we offer.
Facing sex crime charges in Pittsburgh is a deeply sensitive and challenging experience. It’s understandable to feel frightened and alone – a conviction on these charges carries harsh penalties and can significantly damage your reputation. You need the support that only a dedicated and knowledgeable sex crimes attorney serving Pittsburgh can provide.
At SMT Legal, we know being accused of a sex crime can affect every part of your life. Our Pittsburgh sexual offense lawyers provide an aggressive defense in these cases and give you the understanding and empathy you need. We’ll use every tool at our disposal to tell your side of the story, protect your rights, and guide you through the legal process. Our criminal defense attorneys can examine the prosecution’s case, look for weaknesses, consider possible plea agreements, and provide forceful legal representation at trial, if necessary. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation with a sex crimes lawyer.
When you face sex offense charges in Pittsburgh or Allegheny County, it’s crucial to have a capable and experienced lawyer by your side. A sex crimes attorney serving Allegheny County can help you understand the specifics of your case, gather evidence to dispute the prosecution’s narrative, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Furthermore, a lawyer will handle all the legal paperwork in your case, communicate with the court, and represent you in hearings. An experienced lawyer can also negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce your charges or penalties.
Without proper legal representation, you risk facing severe consequences. You may not fully understand your rights or the legal procedures, leading to mistakes that could harm your case. A skilled attorney can help you avoid these pitfalls, giving you the best chance to defend your name and protect your future.
The team at SMT Legal has the experience and resources to defend you against all sex offense charges, regardless of the level of the crime. Common charges we see include the following:
According to 18 Pa. Code § 3121, rape is when an individual or a group of individuals forces sexual intercourse upon a person. The circumstances may include:
Rape is a severe charge. It is classified as a first-degree felony, and anyone facing these charges needs the immediate assistance of an experienced and skilled sex crimes lawyer.
Pennsylvania law defines rape as engaging in sexual intercourse without the victim’s consent. If you face rape charges, our attorneys can thoroughly examine all the prosecution’s evidence and testimony. We’ll present strong evidence in your defense and protect your rights.
According to 18 Pa. Code § 3123, charges of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse (IDSI) occur when an individual is forced into deviant sexual intercourse. These circumstances include those involved with rape charges, as well as when the complainant is under 16, and the accused is more than four years older than them and not married to them. Like rape, IDSI is a first-degree felony.
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Sexual assault is defined by 18 Pa. Code § 3124.1. It involves non-consensual sexual intercourse or deviant sexual intercourse that does not fully meet the criteria of rape or IDSI. Sexual assault is a second-degree felony.
Sexual assault charges involve any non-consensual sexual act forced upon another person. These accusations can have life-changing consequences. We’ll work diligently to investigate the circumstances and build a strong defense for you.
Under 18 Pa. Code § 3126, indecent assault occurs when an individual commits unwanted indecent contact against another party. This can involve force, substance impairment, or a victim under the age of 13 (or 16 if the accused is four or more years older). Depending on the circumstances, indecent assault charges can be punished as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Indecent assault charges involve any unwanted touching of another person’s intimate parts. These cases often involve complex issues of consent and intent. We can fight to uncover the truth and defend you against these serious accusations.
Statutory sexual assault occurs when an adult has a sexual relationship with a minor. Even if the minor nominally consented to the relationship, the law does not consider minors capable of giving legal consent. Our team will manage the intricacies of these laws to provide you with a robust defense.
Aggravated indecent assault involves more severe forms of unwanted sexual contact. These charges carry heavy penalties, including long-term imprisonment. We can vigorously defend your rights in these cases and help you seek the best possible outcome.
18 Pa. Code § 3127 defines indecent exposure as the exposure of genitals in public or to alarm others. It is a second-degree misdemeanor. If children under 16 are present, it is a first-degree misdemeanor.
18 Pa. Code § 6321(d) makes it a felony offense to view or possess images of children under the age of 18 engaged in sexual acts.
According to 18 Pa. Code § 6318, it is a third-degree felony to contact a minor for sex in Pennsylvania. If the purposes of the contact also involve creating or distributing child pornography, penalties will increase.
Under 18 Pa. Code § 5902, it is illegal in Pennsylvania to engage in or hire for sexual activities as a business. Crimes under this category can range from third-degree misdemeanors to third-degree felonies, with penalties increasing if the individual involved is HIV-positive.
18 Pa. Code § 5903 makes it illegal to create, display, sell, or distribute obscene materials, particularly to minors. Depending on the circumstances, this can be charged as a first-degree misdemeanor or a third-degree felony.
According to 18 Pa. Code § 4302, it is a second-degree felony to engage in sexual relationships with close blood relatives.
This charge covers activities such as possessing or distributing child pornography. These cases are highly sensitive and require a meticulous approach. Our attorneys will handle your case with the utmost care, working to mitigate the consequences you may face.
Institutional sexual assault involves sexual acts committed by someone in a position of authority, such as a teacher or coach, against someone in their care. We understand the significant impact these charges can have on your life and career, and we are here to defend your rights and reputation.
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While not all sex crimes are considered felonies, you may face harsh penalties even if you are convicted of a misdemeanor sex crime. The punishments generally include the following, according to the classification of the crime:
However, some crimes call for harsher punishments, depending on the circumstances. For example, if you are convicted of rape charges and the prosecution can prove that you have drugged the complainant, your sentence may be lengthened by 10 years, and your fine may increase by up to $100,000. Those convicted of raping a child and causing serious physical injury may be sentenced to life in prison.
With such severe possible consequences, you need a skilled Pennsylvania defense attorney to protect your rights and interests.
A sex crime conviction can drastically alter your life, leading to immediate legal penalties and long-lasting secondary consequences. Understanding these potential outcomes underscores the importance of having a strong defense to protect your future. Here’s an overview of the consequences of a sex crime conviction:
Depending on the severity of the offense, you could face significant jail or prison time. Some convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning you will spend a substantial period behind bars.
Sex crime convictions often come with significant fines. These financial penalties can be a burden on you and your family, adding to the stress of the legal process.
One of the most severe penalties of a sex crime conviction is having to register as a sex offender visible on the National Sex Offender Registry. This registration can last for years or even a lifetime, significantly affecting your privacy and freedom.
A conviction can make it extremely difficult to find or keep a job. Many employers conduct background checks, and a sex crime conviction can lead to immediate termination or rejection of your job application.
Finding a place to live is often a challenge following a sex crime conviction, as many landlords and housing authorities reject applicants with criminal records.
Convicted sex offenders often lose certain civil rights, such as the right to vote, own firearms, or serve on a jury.
The social consequences of a criminal conviction are often severe, particularly for those convicted of sex offenses. You may face ostracism from your community, friends, and even family.
The stigma attached to a sex crime conviction can follow you for the rest of your life.
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Commonwealth law requires anyone convicted of a sex crime to register with the Pennsylvania Sex Offender Registry. The public will have access to your personal information, such as your name, home address, work address, and photo. Failure to register or update your information regularly can result in further consequences.
While the prospect of defending yourself against sex crime charges in court can feel overwhelming, a seasoned criminal law attorney can help increase your chances of success. Possible defense strategies may include the following:
If you can demonstrate that the sexual activity in question had the consent of all parties involved, this can serve as a potent defense. This may be particularly relevant if you had a prior relationship with the accuser, as long as they are 16 or older. Evidence may include texts, emails, and reliable witness accounts.
DNA is one of the most vital pieces of evidence that can link an accused individual to the victim or the crime scene. If there is no evidence or if your attorney can demonstrate flaws in how the evidence was collected, handled, or analyzed, they can raise the degree of reasonable doubt.
Those accusing others of sex crimes often make a mistake when identifying the accused. You can increase your chances of a successful case if you can provide an alibi or your lawyer can demonstrate that the accuser’s ability to identify the perpetrator accurately is unreliable.
In some cases, an accuser makes baseless or misdirected allegations. Your attorney can employ this defense if there is insufficient evidence or if there is evidence that you were not present at the crime scene.
Taking swift legal action when you face sex crime charges in Pittsburgh can help protect your reputation, rights, and future. We’re here to guide you through this difficult chapter and provide peace of mind in a difficult moment. Call SMT Legal today or reach out online for a free consultation.
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