Those charged with sexual assault face serious consequences under the state’s laws. It can feel like no one is listening to you or on your side, especially with so much at risk. This is why a Lancaster sex crimes lawyer will be a strong advocate on your side.
When you face what seems like insurmountable odds, set up a consultation with a Lancaster sexual assault lawyer. We have the wisdom and experience to know exactly what to do each step of the way. When representation matters, call Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt.
How Our Lancaster Sexual Assault Attorney Can Help You
With so much on the line, hiring an experienced and dedicated sexual assault attorney in Lancaster is critical, and our team is ready to help you. We work closely with those who are faced with serious charges and want to clear their name, get their charges reduced, or otherwise minimize the consequences they face. Every case is vastly different, but there are several ways our legal team can help you:
- Gather evidence and build your case: We work to gather all available evidence in your case to ensure you know what you are fighting and why. We will seek clarification of your charges, verify the accuracy of evidence, and work to educate you on your rights.
- Build a strong defense: Our goal is to build a very specific strategy for your case, and that means we put a lot of time and effort into finding every detail that could work in your favor. That, along with our 30 years of experience, can make a difference in your case’s outcome.
- Full trial representation: our attorneys work tirelessly for you, including preparing you for trial if plea negotiations fail.
Whether our objective is to negotiate for you or build a strong case that outlines your innocence, you can expect our team to fight for your rights. Our Lancaster criminal defense lawyer provides you with the guidance and support you need to navigate this challenging case. With decades of experience helping clients take on some of the most challenging cases, we are confident we can help you.
For a free legal consultation with a sexual assault lawyer serving Lancaster, call 614-884-1100
Understanding Sexual Assault Cases in Ohio
Sexual assault includes any type of sexual activity that happens without the victim’s consent or involving coercion. Depending on the circumstances, you may face misdemeanor or felony charges with punishments that include fines, imprisonment, and mandatory sex offender registration. In the absence of consent, a person is facing a felony charge, and consent must be:
- Knowing
- Voluntary
- Active
Under the state’s laws, sexual assault occurs when the perpetrator engages in recognized sexual activities without the victim’s consent or with a victim who is unable to give consent because they are intoxicated, unconscious, under the age of 18, or unable to make decisions for themselves. This can make charges more complicated. Noting these serious charges, it is critical to consider the application of consent as it applies in Ohio.
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Understanding Sexual Assault Charges in Lancaster, Ohio
Sexual assault falls under Section 2907 of the Ohio Revised Code which govern rape, sexual assault, sexual contact, and indecent acts. Sexual assault falls under two particular areas, “sexual conduct” and “sexual contact” offenses, both of which carry significant consequences. Under the state’s laws, sexual conduct refers to illegal penetration, while sexual contact involves illegal touching of erogenous zones for the purpose of sexual gratification.
Recognizing these charges can be amplified in situations where minors are involved or in situations where victims suffer physical injury from the incident. Those who are charged with sexual assault in Lancaster face an uphill battle and benefit from immediate legal guidance and support as they navigate their legal options. We strongly encourage you to hire a sexual assault lawyer in Lancaster before speaking to the prosecutor or police about your case.
Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt brings specific skill to these types of charges as we have built a 30-year career on specifically defending men accused of illegal sexual activity. We know the available defense strategies, what is most likely to be effective, and how to protect our clients from inappropriate outcomes. The risks are high, but our dedicated Lancaster sex crimes lawyer is ready to fight for your rights.
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Examples of Sexual Assault Cases in Lancaster
A variety of sexual assault types can occur, and no type of accusation is one that is going to be without serious consequences. The penalties associated with any charge are dependent specifically on consent and the nature of the crime. Consider the following examples of degrees of sexual assault under the state’s laws.
- Rape: Rape is a first-degree felony charge and typically has the most severe charges of all sexual assault incidents, with punishment including up to 11 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
- Sexual battery: Under Ohio law, sexual battery applies to sexual acts perpetrated through psychological manipulation or the exploitation of authority. This third-degree felony carries penalties of up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor: Applicable to anyone over the age of 18 engaging in sexual activities with someone under the age of 18, this is a fourth-degree felony charge with punishments of up to 1.5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. However, penalties are higher depending on the age difference.
- Sexual implication: A third-degree misdemeanor, sexual implication involves non-consensual sexual behaviors such as inappropriate contact or harassment. Punishments may include up to 60 days in jail, with a higher level of consequence for repeat offenders.
- Gross sexual implication: A four-degree felony, gross sexual implication involves victims aged 13 or younger or the use of force. Penalties range widely based on the incident but can include jail time and fines.
The severity of the charges you face is more than just spending time in prison or paying a fine. All convicted of sexual assault face mandatory addition to the sex offenders registry. Additionally, it may be hard to obtain a job, get loans, or apply for some housing options.
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Representation Matters: Get Help From Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt
Protect your future with an aggressive Lancaster sexual assault lawyer. At Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt, you can expect outstanding legal guidance. Contact our legal team now to learn more about your rights.
Call or text 614-884-1100 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form