If you recently discovered that you are under investigation on suspicion of sexual abuse or any type of sex offense, it is imperative that you take these allegations seriously.
Formal charges or even the insinuation that you have committed a sex crime could be devastating for your reputation and lead to catastrophic criminal penalties. Working with a highly experienced Columbus sexual abuse defense lawyer with Koffel Brininger Nesbitt may be the best way to safeguard your future.
Sexual abuse carries stiff consequences that are designed to punish you for years to come. When you get help from a respected Columbus sex crime defense lawyer, you can take control of the narrative and build the strongest defense strategy possible.
Contact our law office to request a confidential consultation and learn more about the strength of the state’s case against you, the potential punishments you could be facing if you are found guilty, and, considering all the evidence, which defenses are best suited to your case.
Sexual Abuse Can Take Many Forms Under the Ohio Criminal Code
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2907 describes the many different types of sex crimes that constitute sexual abuse. The type of sex offense you are accused of committing will determine the possible penalties you could be facing. Koffel Brininger Nesbitt has considerable experience handling most types of sex crimes, some of the most common of which include:
Rape
Rape involves the engagement of sexual conduct with another individual through the threat or use of force. It can also include coercing an individual to engage in sexual conduct when they do not have the mental capacity to give their consent, are under the age of 13, or are significantly impaired by alcohol or drugs. Rape is generally tried as a first-degree felony according to Ohio Revised Code §2907.02.
Sexual Battery
Sexual battery is a type of sexual abuse that includes engaging in sexual conduct with another person when the alleged victim is impaired, incapable of giving their consent, or the defendant is in a position of authority over the alleged victim. It can also include engaging in sexual conduct through caution when the defendant knew or should have known that the average person would resist such advances.
Sexual battery is typically tried as a third-degree felony unless the alleged victim is under the age of 18, at which point it can be tried as a second-degree felony according to Ohio Revised Code §2907.03.
Online Solicitation of a Minor
Online solicitation of a minor involves soliciting a minor under the age of 13 to engage in any type of sexual activity in person or through any type of communication device. This is true even if you did not know the minor was underage. Online solicitation of a minor is typically tried at the felony level according to Ohio Revised Code §2907.07.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Columbus, call 614-884-1100
Sexual Abuse Crimes Carry Severe Penalties in Columbus
Your sexual abuse defense attorney in Columbus will need to ensure you understand the extent of the consequences you are facing. This will help you make an informed and educated decision about how to proceed with your criminal defense strategy. Some of the most common penalties associated with sex crime convictions include:
- As much as 30 days in jail and fines of up to $250 for a fourth-degree misdemeanor conviction under ORC §2929.24
- Up to 180 days in jail and fines not to exceed $1,000 for a first-degree misdemeanor conviction
- As much as 12 months in prison and fines of up to $2,500 for a fifth-degree felony conviction under ORC §2929.14
- Up to 11 years in an Ohio state prison (unless sentencing enhancements supply) and fines of up to $20,000 for a first-degree felony conviction
Registration as a Sex Offender
Those convicted of sexual abuse crimes may also be required to register as a sex offender. The Ohio Sex Offender Registry uses a tiered system to designate offender levels according to ORC §2950.031. This will determine how long you might need to continue registering your sex offender status:
- Tier I: Offenders at this level must register for 10 years if they were a minor at the time of their conviction or every year for 15 years after completing their sentence.
- Tier II: Tier II offenders should be prepared to register every 100 days for 20 years if convicted as a minor or 25 years if convicted as an adult.
- Tier III: The community will be notified when a Tier III sex offender moves into the area. They are required to register their status every 90 days for the rest of their lives.
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Defending Yourself Is Essential When Facing Sexual Abuse Accusations
Figuring out which defenses are going to be most suitable for your case can be challenging. Your sexual abuse defense lawyer in Columbus will need to carefully consider your criminal history, the evidence the state has against you, the alleged victim’s testimony, and other relevant case details to determine how to best approach your defense. Some of the most common ways our clients have challenged the sexual abuse allegations against them include:
- Alleged victim engaged in consensual sexual activity
- The alleged victim identified the wrong individual as the perpetrator
- Your constitutional rights were violated due to an unlawful search and seizure
- You have an alibi that should clear you
You may also be able to argue that the sexual activity occurred, but the circumstances under which it happened do not make it illegal, for example, if you did not use violence, force, or threats, or you have been accused of committing statutory rape but the alleged victim lied about their age, this defense may apply. In some instances, the state may be willing to offer a plea agreement. We will need to review the evidence in detail and consider the penalties that come with the sex abuse conviction to determine whether it is in your best interests to accept a plea or defend your case at trial.
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Connect with a Leading Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Columbus Today
If you are found guilty of sexual abuse or any type of sex crime, it could permanently alter your future. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life and struggle to cope with the many collateral consequences That come with a sex offense conviction. When your freedom and livelihood are on the line, take your defense seriously.
Turn to an experienced Columbus sexual abuse defense attorney with Koffel Brininger Nesbitt to curate the strongest defense possible based on the circumstances of your case.
Our criminal defense firm is prepared to tirelessly investigate, negotiate with Ohio state prosecutors, and present a compelling defense at trial to protect your rights and liberties. Complete our secured contact form or call our office when you are ready to schedule your confidential consultation.
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