Sex crimes can range from a misdemeanor offense to serious, violent felonies. Receiving a conviction for these actions frequently results in substantial fines, jail time, and a severe social stigma. To avoid carrying the weight of a sex crime conviction, it is important to have a plan to defend yourself. A skillful Mountain Brook sex crimes lawyer will understand the hardships you face and could be your ally throughout your legal process. Read on to learn more about how a dedicated defense attorney could work to protect your rights today.
Common Sex Crimes in Mountain BrookThe term sex crime can refer to many different allegations in Mountain Brook, as several types and degrees of charges fall under this blanket. For example, under Alabama law, someone commits indecent exposure if they expose their genitals in circumstances known to cause alarm with the intent of sexual gratification. Reach out to a professional defense lawyer to learn more.
First and Second Degree RapeAn individual in Alabama engages in first-degree rape if they force another into sexual intercourse or had sexual intercourse with someone who was unable to provide consent. It is also first-degree rape if anyone older than 16 had sexual intercourse with a minor under 12 years old. An individual performs second-degree rape if they are 16 or older and had sexual intercourse with a minor between the ages of 12 and 16. It is also second-degree rape if someone engages in sexual intercourse with someone who cannot provide consent because of a mental disability.
Sexual AbuseFirst-degree sexual abuse occurs when someone forces sexual conduct on another who either did not give consent or was incapable of consent. An offense is considered second-degree sexual abuse if an individual subjects someone to sexual contact who is unable to provide consent because they are under 16 years old. Someone commits this offense if they are 19 or older and subjects someone between the ages of 12 and 16 to sexual contact.
Sodomy ChargesFirst-degree sodomy occurs if someone engages in deviate sexual intercourse with an individual through force or with someone who is unable to provide consent. It is also first-degree sodomy if an individual older than 16 engages in deviate sexual intercourse with a person less than 12 years old. An individual engages in second-degree sodomy if that individual participated in deviate sexual intercourse with another between the ages of 12 and 16 years old. If someone engages in deviate sexual intercourse with an individual who has a mental handicap and thereby incapable of consent, it is also second-degree sodomy.
Potential Defense StrategiesAnyone facing a sex crimes charge should take comfort in the knowledge that there are many possible defenses. Some of the most common defenses that an individual can raise in response to sex crimes could include how the prosecution failed to prove the elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt, the defendant’s identity was mistaken with someone else’s, or that the offense in question did not actually happen. An experienced Mountain Brook sex crimes lawyer can work to strengthen these defenses by gathering evidence, interviewing key witnesses, and vigorously advocating on one’s behalf.
Working With a Mountain Brook Sex Crimes LawyerWhile considering the potential penalties for a sex crimes conviction can be a daunting situation, know that you do not have to face them alone. Protect your rights by retaining a competent Mountain Brook sex crimes lawyer who can defend you and guide you through the legal process. Consider reaching out to a dedicated defense attorney today for your initial consultation. You will learn about the Alabama sex offender registry requirements. Call today.