You could be accused of theft, a traffic violation, drunk driving, assault, or even murder, and none of these offenses would carry the stigma that comes with being accused of a sex crime.
The heinous nature of these crimes leaves prosecutors, law enforcement officials, and juries ready to hold someone accountable for the alleged victim’s trauma. For this reason, you must go into your defense with powerful supporting evidence and plausible reasonable doubt.
When you are facing charges this severe, having a reputable Lancaster sex crimes lawyer from Koffel Brininger Nesbitt on your side may be the most valuable resource for your defense. As Ohio’s premier criminal defense law firm with over 30 years of trial experience, you can feel confident in your case with our firm working to clear your name.
Schedule your confidential consultation with our Lancaster criminal defense lawyer today to discuss the state’s evidence against you, the penalties you will face if convicted, and how to best approach your defense.
Your Lancaster Sex Crimes Attorney Handles Most Types of Sex Offenses
There are many types of sex crimes you could be accused of under the Ohio statute. The type of sex offense you are charged with will determine the extent of the penalties you face. Some of the most common types of sex crimes our Lancaster violent crimes lawyer has defended against include:
- Child pornography under Ohio Revised Code §2907.321
- Gross sexual imposition under Ohio Revised Code §2907.05
- Indecent exposure under Ohio Revised Code 2907.09
- Importuning under Ohio Revised Code §2907.07
- Prostitution under Ohio Revised Code §2907.231
- Rape under Ohio Revised Code §2907.02
- Sexual assault under Ohio Revised Code §5924.120
- Sexual battery under Ohio Revised Code §2907.03
There are many other potential sex crimes you could be charged with. Most of these will require registration as a sex offender post-conviction as part of the cost of being convicted of a crime – what it does to your future prospects. This means a sex crime conviction could have a significant impact on your life for the foreseeable future and limit your opportunities to move forward and put this experience behind you.
For a free legal consultation with a sex crimes lawyer serving Lancaster, call 614-884-1100
Lancaster Sex Crimes FAQ
Are Sex Offenses Eligible for Expungement?
No. As described under Ohio Revised Code §2953.32, sex offenses are generally not eligible for expungement. This is because when your record is expunged, your criminal charges, arrest, or conviction are effectively erased.
No one other than government officials will have access to this information. However, those convicted of sex offenses are often required to register as sex offenders to ensure the public is made aware of the risks they may pose. For this reason, the state does not allow sex offenders to expunge their criminal records.
What Happens if I do Not Register as a Sex Offender?
If you fail to remain in compliance with Ohio’s sex offender registration requirements as described under Ohio Revised Code §2950.99, the consequences could be devastating. This is considered a felony-level offense in most cases.
The severity of the charges will depend on the original sex crime you were convicted of and your Ohio sex offender registration tier. For example, if you were convicted of a first-degree felony, failing to register as a sex offender would be considered a first-degree felony. If convicted, you could spend more than 11 years in an Ohio state prison.
What Is the Statute of Limitations on Sex Crime Charges in Ohio?
Sex crimes have a longer statute of limitations than most other criminal offenses. Most sex crimes have a statute of limitations of 20 years, but some offenses may have an even longer time limit. For example, if you are accused of committing sexual battery or rape, the statute of limitations would expire 25 years from the date of the alleged offense as described under Ohio Revised Code §2901.13(4).
However, in limited circumstances, the statute of limitations could be extended. This is often seen in cases where DNA evidence can be used to identify suspects. In this case, the prosecutor may have an additional 5 years after the DNA identification to file criminal charges.
It is also important to know that the statute of limitations is different when the alleged victim in the case is a minor. The statute of limitations will not start counting down until the minor reaches the age of 18. From there, the statute of limitations will generally expire 20 years later.
What Defenses Are Used to Challenge Sex Crime Charges?
There are several potential defenses your Lancaster sex crimes attorney may be able to use to help you avoid a guilty verdict. In some cases, working out a plea agreement with the prosecuting attorney may be the better option. However, if your case goes to trial, some possible defenses that could introduce plausible reasonable doubt include:
- Inaccurate analysis of DNA evidence
- Mishandling of forensic evidence by laboratory staff
- Entrapment
- Having an alibi
- Lack of sufficient evidence
- Mistaken identity
- The alleged victim consented
What Happens During Arraignment?
During arraignment, you will enter your plea. Generally, according to Ohio Revised Code §943.03, you can plead “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” If you enter a plea of not guilty, a trial date will be set.
This is also where the judge will determine if bail should be granted. If the judge believes you are a threat to the community or a flight risk, they have the authority to deny bail. If bail is granted but you cannot afford the bond, you may remain incarcerated until you can pay the bond or your trial is resolved.
Lancaster Sex Crimes Lawyer Near Me 614-884-1100
Get Help from a High-Powered Sex Crimes Lawyer in Lancaster Today
When you have been accused of committing a crime as reprehensible as a sex offense, we cannot overstate the importance of having a highly experienced and strategic sex crimes attorney in Lancaster from Koffel Brininger Nesbitt backing you up. You could be looking at substantial prison time and registration as a sex offender for the foreseeable future.
Not only do you have to worry about the criminal penalties, but while incarcerated, your safety could be in jeopardy, as other convicts are not known for welcoming convicted sex offenders.
Take your criminal defense strategy seriously. Schedule a confidential consultation now so a Lancaster sex crimes lawyer can go over how the accusations came about, the strength of the district attorney’s case against you, and what to expect from the criminal justice process.
Call our office or complete our secured contact form to get started on your defense as soon as today.
Call or text 614-884-1100 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form