Some of the most serious crimes in the state of Georgia are sex crimes. Whenever a person is accused of these crimes, their life can change forever; and this is before even considering the potential consequences of a conviction. While the most serious versions of these crimes carry severe penalties, even lesser sex crimes include possible jail terms and the requirement to register as a sex offender upon release.
Roswell sex crimes lawyers represent people who have been accused of all forms of sex crimes, helping them to protect not only their personal freedom but also their reputation in the community. Speaking with a distinguished criminal attorney who can help you find relevant evidence and witnesses, may be beneficial to your case.
Sex Crimes Laws in GeorgiaSex crimes in Georgia range from among the most serious acts that a person can be accused of, to lesser offenses that are classified as misdemeanors. Roswell sex crimes lawyers have seen various offenses and can help individuals defend their futures when faced with a sex offense.
Examples of felony sex crimes in Georgia include:
RapeRape is defined as when there is forcible penetration of a female sex organ by a male sex organ. An alternative definition includes as when a male has sex with a female who is less than 10 years old, regardless of force or intent. Punishments for rape include a minimum jail term of 25 years with the option of the prosecutor to pursue the death penalty. Statutory Rape is defined as when anybody has sex with a person under the age of 16. If the defendant is over the age of 21, the minimum penalty is 10 years in prison with a maximum of 20 years.
Child MolestationIf the defendant is 18 years old or younger and the victim is between 14 and 16, the offense is considered a misdemeanor. Child Molestation is any immoral or indecent act performed either to or in the presence of a person under 16 years old. Alternatively, this includes performing a sex act in front of a child under 16 years old over electronic communication. A first offender can be sentenced to no less than five years in jail with a maximum of 20 years. A conviction for any of the felony sex crimes will require that the defendant register as a sex offender upon release.
MisdemeanorsLess serious sex crimes in Georgia are classified as misdemeanors. A misdemeanor conviction carries a fine of up to $1,000 and also a potential jail term of up to one year. A Roswell sex crimes lawyer can help potential clients mitigate these charges.
Examples of misdemeanor sex crimes are:
Simply being charged with a sex crime can permanently affect a person’s life. Not only must they face the serious legal ramifications, they also are judged in the court of public opinion. Our firm’s Roswell sex crimes lawyers work to defend our clients not only in criminal court but also in the court of public opinion.
Although the criminal justice system revolves around the idea that a person is innocent until proven guilty, sensationalist media stories often work to sway public opinion against the defendant. Precisely because of this, we are at your side every step of the way. From the initial arrest and arraignment, through the final stages of a trial, attorneys will work to protect your freedom. Potential penalties upon conviction include required jail time without a possibility of parole, and worse.