Sandy Springs Sex Crime Lawyers

Sex crimes are among the most serious crimes that a person may be accused of in Sandy Springs, Georgia. Most sex crimes are considered to be felonies. The mere accusation that a person has committed these acts can forever change a person’s life. Furthermore, the consequences for a conviction are always severe, and in certain cases may even result in the death penalty.

If you are facing sex crime charges of any type or severity, a qualified attorney could represent you. Everyone has the right to defend themselves, and a Sandy Springs sex crimes lawyer could work to protect you both in and out of the courtroom.

Rape is defined under GA Code 16-6-1 as forcible penetration of a female sex organ by a male sex organ. It should be noted that according to the strict wording of the law, it is a legal impossibility for a woman to commit a rape against a man in Sandy Springs. A person may also be convicted of rape anytime a male has sexual contact with a female under the age of 10, even if no force was used.

Punishments for rape in Sandy Springs are always severe and require a minimum prison sentence of 25 years. In especially serious examples, the prosecutor may choose to pursue the death penalty. It is extremely important to consult a Sandy Springs sex crimes lawyer if charged with this type of offense.

Statutory rape is defined in GA Code 16-6-3 as any sexual actions or contact with someone under the age of 16, regardless of the circumstances or either party’s consent. When the defendant is over the age of 21, the minimum penalty is 10 years in prison up to a potential 20 years.

When the defendant is 18 years old or younger and the victim is between 14 and 16, the offense is considered only a misdemeanor. Still, this can land the convicted person in jail and may give them a permanent criminal record.

Actions that do not qualify as rape but are still considered sex crimes are classified as misdemeanors. According to GA Code 17-10-3, a misdemeanor conviction can result in up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

Examples of misdemeanor sex crimes include:

• Public Indecency (GA Code 16-6-8), which applies any time a person commits a sex act in public or exposes themselves to people in a public place
• Prostitution (GA Code 16-6-9), which can be charged to anyone who performs a sex act in exchange for anything of value, or offers to do so
• Adultery (GA Code 16-6-19); under Georgia law, it is illegal for a married person to have sex with anyone other than their spouse, and while it is uncommon for people to be charged with adultery, it is still possible

Speak with a Sandy Springs sex crimes lawyer to learn more about misdemeanor charges.

Whenever someone is facing any kind of a charge related to a sex crime, they often need to take strong action to protect themselves. For even the least serious of these charges, conviction carries the potential of a jail sentence, stiff fines, and a criminal record. More serious charges may require a long prison sentence upon conviction or even the death penalty.

A Sandy Springs sex crimes lawyer could represent you in the criminal courts of Sandy Springs, Georgia, working to protect your freedom and defend your reputation in the community. Call today to learn how an experienced attorney could handle your case with both compassion and commitment.