If a person is accused of a sex crime in Alabama, it is understandable to be confused and frightened. Simply being accused of a sex crime is a life changing experience that must be contested at every turn.
With consequences ranging from lengthy jail time and paying a mandatory fine, to being forced to register as a sex offender, the stakes are high. People accused of a sex crime often ask:
Keeping this in mind, it is vital to work with a Vestavia Hills sex crimes lawyer who can help to navigate the criminal courts, answer any questions you may have, and work to get you the best possible outcome based on your unique circumstances. A knowledgeable criminal attorney in Vestavia Hills can build a case to help lessen any potential consequences you may be facing.
Defining a Sex CrimeSex crimes are considered to be among the most serious crimes in Alabama criminal law. The most serious of these is rape. Rape is defined in Alabama Code 13A-6-61. In the statute, rape is defined as:
Engaging in sexual intercourse with another person by forcible compulsion, or engaging in sexual intercourse with another person who is incapable of consent. This is known as Rape in the First Degree and is punishable as a Class A Felony.
There is also Rape in the Second Degree as defined under Alabama Code 13A-6-62 as engaging in sexual intercourse with another person as a teenager if there is more than two years age difference. This is considered to be a Class B Felony.
Another category of sex crime in Alabama is sexual torture. This is defined as using an inanimate object to sexually abuse another. This is also considered to be a Class A Felony under Alabama Code 13A-6-65.1.
Indecent exposure is another class of sex crime. This is defined in Alabama Code 13A-6-68 as: when a person exposes their genitals under circumstances in which they know they is likely to cause affront or alarm.
This is usually a Class A Misdemeanor, but if a person has three or more convictions under this statute, upgrades to a Class C Felony. If a person is facing these sex crimes, they must not hesitate before contacting a Vestavia Hills sex crimes lawyer.
Potential PenaltiesThe penalties for sex crimes in Alabama are as varied as the differing definitions. However, most are considered to be felonies carrying significant jail time and fines. Below is the table of felony sentencing rules as well as the rule for a Class A Misdemeanor.
Additionally, conviction under any sex crimes law requires that the person convicted register as a sex offender. Such penalties can be best defended using a Vestavia Hills sex crimes attorney.
Benefit of an AttorneyFacing allegations of a sex crime in Alabama is an extremely serious matter. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases with extended sentences for convictions. Vestavia Hills sex crimes lawyers work with people who have been accused of these crimes to protect their liberty.
With potential penalties ranging from stiff fines to a lifetime in jail, a strong and detailed defense is required. A sex crimes attorney in Vestavia Hills will examine every piece of evidence, talk to all the witnesses, and prepare a thorough and nuanced defense to fit your unique needs. Do not take any unnecessary chances, contact our firm today.