A sex crime accusation or charge has an immediate and serious impact on your life. Your personal and professional reputation may be forever tarnished if you are convicted. If you have been accused of or charged with an offense involving illegal sexual misconduct, it is imperative you immediately seek legal representation from a skilled and aggressive Orange County sex crime lawyer. Our attorneys at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry have decades of experience defending clients against these charges and have achieved unprecedented success.

An experienced criminal defense attorney who has extensive knowledge of how these crimes are investigated and prosecuted locally can directly affect your case’s outcome. Scott D. Henry and his team have earned a reputation for providing their clients with effective and proactive defenses with a proven track record of success. There is so much at stake when facing allegations of sexual wrongdoing. You must have a team that could fight tirelessly to protect your rights and your future.

What is Considered a Sex Crime in Orange County?

“Sex crimes” is a broad term for misdemeanors or felonies that are sexual in nature. They vary significantly in severity and range from a relatively minor charge of indecent exposure to the extremely serious charge of rape. Sex crimes are taken seriously by law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges, and are convictions carry harsh penalties.

Misdemeanor Sex Crimes

The circumstances and nature of the alleged crime determine if it will be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. When most people hear the term “sex crime,” they think of the more serious crimes of rape or child molestation. However, many of these offenses are typically charged as misdemeanors. Some common misdemeanor sex crimes include:

  • Indecent exposure
  • Lewd acts in public
  • Solicitation
  • Prostitution
  • Soliciting a minor

Misdemeanor sex offense convictions are typically punished by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $3,000.

Felony Sex Crimes

When a sex crime is more severe in nature, it is charged as a felony. Common felony offenses include:

  • Date rape
  • Sexual abuse
  • Sexual abuse of a minor
  • Forcible rape
  • Forcible sodomy

The penalties for felony sex crimes vary substantially and depend on the nature and severity of the crime. For a severe offense, a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and substantial fines are possible. A skilled attorney in the area could examine the circumstances of the alleged sex crime offense and determine how to best fight to prevent a felony conviction and its significant penalties. Other possible penalties for an illegal sexual offense may include:

  • Jail
  • Prison
  • Parole
  • Probation
  • Lifetime registration as a sex offender
  • Permanent conviction on your record
  • Fines
  • Restitution
  • Counseling

Common Sex Crime Defenses

Although every sexual crime case is different, there are several solid defenses your Orange County lawyer could pursue. Some of these include:

  • False accusation
  • Arguing the act was consensual by both parties.
  • Mistaken identity
  • Malicious intent to obtain child custody
  • Insufficient evidence

An experienced lawyer could determine the best strategy to pursue in defense of the charges against you. Our highly-respected defense attorneys have decades of experience helping those facing allegations of sexual battery and misconduct. A close examination of the evidence in the case could help build the most effective defense strategy.

Contact an Orange County Sex Crime Attorney Today

Individuals accused of committing a sexual offense must cope with the stigma that inevitably comes with just a mere allegation. The effects of a conviction are substantially worse, so any accusations must be taken seriously. If you have been accused of a crime that is sexual in nature, you should contact an experienced Orange County sex crime lawyer immediately.

An alleged sex crime is an especially sensitive matter that needs a thorough investigation by a team of skilled professionals. Our team at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry utilizes highly regarded investigators who have years of experience investigating these alleged sexual offenses.

We understand the seriousness of the situation you face and could listen to your side of the story without any judgment. We could fight to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Contact us for a free consultation. Our top-rated attorneys could discuss your case’s specifics, advise you of your rights, and determine the most effective strategy in moving forward.

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