When facing serious allegations of a sex crime, it is important to tread this situation carefully. You may know you are not guilty, but you must prove this strategically. An Upper Arlington sex crimes lawyer is essential to protecting your rights.
At Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt, we understand that your reputation and freedom are on the line. With over 30 years of experience, we are Ohio’s premier criminal defense firm. Contact our Upper Arlington criminal defense lawyer today.
The First Thing You Should Do if You Are Accused of a Sex Crime
One of the 5 steps to take if you are falsely accused of a sex crime is to reach out to a sex crimes attorney in Upper Arlington. You should avoid speaking directly to law enforcement or anyone else until you have legal representation. This is not because you are trying not to comply but because anything could be used against you, even if you did not mean a statement the way they took it.
Everyone has a right to remain silent; you are not excluded. The police may pressure you into providing a statement. They may say they are just trying to clarify things, but they are really looking for a confession.
You should keep information and evidence put together for your attorney to review. Anything you think is relevant to your case should get turned over to the attorney, including text messages, emails, or other forms of communication. When you combine everything quickly, you can have more time to build a strong case.
For a free legal consultation with a sex crimes lawyer serving Upper Arlington, call 614-884-1100
How to Prove You Are Not Guilty
Proving your innocence is not easy in a case like this. It requires a strategic approach, thorough evidence, and legal guidance. Only use evidence that strongly supports your innocence in the situation.
If you can get any witness statements, it could significantly impact the outcome of your case. Make sure you always remain calm. It is in your best interests to remain professional and speak only when it is your turn.
Upper Arlington Sex Crimes Lawyer Near Me 614-884-1100
Penalties in Ohio You May Face
When you face sex crime allegations, they can come with severe penalties. These consequences can lead to severe repercussions that stay with you. Potential penalties Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt may be able to mitigate involve the following:
- According to Section 2907 of the Ohio Revised Code, a prison sentence can range from a few months to life, depending on the severity of the offense.
- A mandatory sentence to be added to the sex offender registry, which can require you to register for 15 years, 25 years, or even a lifetime per the Ohio Lawyer General’s Guide to Ohio’s SORN Laws.
- Additional penalties include restrictions on where you can live and work, loss of parental rights, fines, and probation.
While the legal consequences are not ideal, the social stigma can take it to a whole other level. Your reputation can be destroyed quickly. It can be hard to rebuild your life after such a charge on your record.
Defenses You May Consider Using
After you get accused of a sex crime, you need to start building the right defense that aligns with your side of the story. This is where you need to work closely with a sex crimes lawyer in Upper Arlington. Choosing the right defense strategy is important when your life depends on it.
Consent
This is a common defense in most sex crime cases. You will need evidence like emails, witness statements, or text messages showing consent. You should also consider the age of consent laws in Ohio regarding age or mental capacity, as that has a major role in this defense.
False Accusations
If you are faced with such accusations, the focus should be on exposing any inconsistencies or ulterior motives behind the claims from the other party. This could include pointing out inconsistencies in their stories or providing evidence showing you could not have committed the act. You must have powerful proof that is clear and credible when proving this.
Lack of Evidence
Looking for weak or incomplete evidence on the other side is helpful. Your defense should point out gaps, show how vital evidence is missing, or question the reliability of forensic results. The burden of proof is on the prosecution; every flaw in their case works in your favor.
The best defense you can use is a mix of strategies that fit your situation. You just need to work with your attorney to review all aspects of your case. With the right approach, you can potentially turn the outcome around in your favor.
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Common Types of Sex Crimes
Sex crimes cover several types of offenses that have their own consequences and definitions. It is helpful to understand the charges you face are important to build the perfect defense for you. Some of the most common sex crimes involve:
- Rape: When sexual conduct is involved without any consent and usually involves threat or force.
- Sexual assault: Participating in unwanted sexual contact without any prior consent. This often includes fondling or groping.
- Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor: This is when an adult engages with a child who is under the age of consent, which is 16 in Ohio.
- Child pornography: This covers distributing this material, creating it, or being in possession of explicit materials involving minors.
Each of these crimes has specific aspects that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Your defense strategy will depend on the charges and circumstances of your case. Make sure you understand your options so you can best fight these allegations.
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Get Clarity With an Upper Arlington Sex Crimes Attorney
As you try to handle this life-changing accusation, it can be easy to shut down and avoid it for a while.
However, the sooner you take action, the more ability we have to help you.. Contact Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt for a consultation today.
Call or text 614-884-1100 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form