Gwinnett County district attorneys harshly prosecute sexual offenses. Most sex crimes in Georgia are felonies and are punishable by at least one year in state prison. Many such offenses could lead to long prison sentences and required registration as a sexual offender. A sex crime conviction can permanently alter the life of those convicted.
Given the nature of these offenses, most of those convicted will face limited job, housing, and educational opportunities. A felony sex crimes conviction can also impact someone’s eligibility for some government assistance programs.
If you are facing a sexual offense charge in Lawrenceville, you need a defense attorney who can defend you and protect your reputation. It is important to contact a Lawrenceville sex crimes lawyer immediately after arrest. Speak with an experienced criminal attorney after learning you are subject to investigation.
Defining Common Sexual OffensesGeorgia law defines many different sexual offenses, including both felonies and high misdemeanors. The penalties for conviction depend on the severity of the alleged offense. Some common sexually-based charges in Lawrenceville include:
Many of these offenses are punishable by years in prison. Anyone charged with these or related charges should call an experienced sex crime lawyer immediately. In addition, any of the felony charges listed above will lead to the registry on Georgia’s sex offender registration list.
Sexual Battery and Rape ChargesIn Georgia, rape and sexual battery are separate crimes. Rape is a capital offense in Georgia, meaning that someone convicted could face the death penalty. The minimum sentence for rape is 25 years in prison.
Sexual battery, while still serious, is not a capital crime. Georgia Code Section 12-6-22.1 defines sexual battery as intentionally making physical contact with the intimate parts of the body of another person without the consent of that person.
In most cases, sexual battery is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature. This means it is punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $5,000. However, in cases where the accuser of sexual battery is under the age of 16, the offense is elevated to a felony. Lawrenceville sex crimes lawyers know that this means it is punishable by up to five years in prison.
Call a Lawrenceville Sex Crimes LawyerIt is important to have someone fight for you, to have an experienced sex crimes lawyer in your corner. Your defense lawyer will protect your best interests as they defend you in court. You need to hire a criminal lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest.
An experienced Lawrenceville sex crimes lawyer will be able to explain all available options to you and advise you which way to go throughout the entire case. Your lawyer will stand up for you and your rights in and out of the courtroom.