Criminal Defense Lawyer DC 

Sex crimes are perhaps the most severely sentenced throughout the country, and there is more than a little evidence that this state of affairs is appropriate. Victims of sexual assault, rape, criminal sexual conduct and the like almost always experience significant trauma, which can affect the rest of their lives in a psychological sense. However, one hears very little about the men and women charged with sex crimes they did not commit. If one ever finds themselves in such a difficult and frightening situation, experienced legal advice may be all that stands in the way of being found culpable.

Classifications and Sentences

DC sex crime laws are extensive and detailed, as befits such dangerous and destructive crimes. The Criminal Code divides offenses into sections of major offenses and vulnerable victim offenses, but the penalties in each section are significant. For example, a relatively minor crime such as public indecency is typically a minor misdemeanor, but multiple convictions will make it a serious felony. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of no more than $2,500, while a felony can carry a sentence of up to $25,000 in fines, plus one to three years in state prison.

Criminal sexual assault or aggravated criminal sexual abuse are both felonies, even though standard assault is usually a misdemeanor in most states – the sexual component is the difference which elevates these offenses to felonies, and many would argue justifiably so.

If You Are Accused

Being accused of a sex crime is no small matter. If one elects to take a plea or is found guilty, the punishments are severe in the majority of states, not just in terms of prison sentencing, but post-sentencing requirements. Not only does the social stigma of being a sex offender follow one around, the practical issues associated with such a status can be prohibitive. For example, in many states, registered sex offenders may not reside within certain geographic areas close to schools or businesses which cater to children, such as daycare centers – this can impact the offender’s ability to find housing at all. Some employers refuse to hire those with sex crime convictions.

If one finds themselves accused of a sex crime they did not commit, the most important suggestion as to conduct is to demand a criminal defense lawyer before saying anything. Sex crime cases are always significant, and it is more likely that a law enforcement official will try to obtain a confession than in other varieties of alleged criminal conduct. A person must be informed of the charges against them, but they may not be informed of small details, and as such, any improvised statement could prove damaging to their statements of innocence. The best chance one has is to remain silent and attempt to prove one’s innocence at trial, with a competent criminal defense lawyer leading the way.

Seek Knowledgeable Legal Assistance in DC

Being unjustly accused of any crime can be utterly terrifying. However, an experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to assuage some of the understandable fear one might feel. The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. stands ready to work with you to ensure the most appropriate possible outcome. Contact our office today to set up an initial consultation with a criminal defense lawyer DC clients recommend.