Facing allegations of sexually-based offenses can be life-changing. Significant consequences come with an arrest, but that is nothing compared to the penalties associated with a criminal conviction.
If you have been accused of sexual wrongdoing, now is the time to seek legal help. Our dedicated criminal defense attorneys could help you identify the best approach for fighting these charges. Before you accept a plea, consider a discussion with an Erlanger sex crimes lawyer at Busald Funk Zevely.
Common Examples of Crimes
Kentucky law recognizes a wide range of these charges. Most of them are treated as felonies and carry the potential of a lengthy prison term. Many of these charges can also result in a person being placed on the sex offender registry. This can lead to a lifetime of limitations and stigma that is difficult to deal with.
Understanding the nature of an offense is important for anyone hoping to clear their name. Some of the offenses include sexual assault, exhibitionism, and the possession of child pornography.
Being found guilty of any of these offenses is a devastating outcome with far-reaching implications. Although this situation might seem hopeless, it is important to understand that a favorable outcome is possible.
Our Erlanger attorneys could thoroughly investigate all of the allegations in a sex crime prosecution. This might start with interviews or reviewing the police report. As they grow to understand the facts of the case, their ability to develop the appropriate defense approach only increases.
Understanding The Registry
In addition to the risk of jail time and fines, a conviction can also lead to mandatory registration as a sex offender. This means being forced to provide the state with information about where a person lives and works while also following a range of other restrictions.
A person on the registry must provide notice when they move, and they cannot live within a certain distance from places like schools or daycares. They also face limits on where they can work, and certain jobs might have to be approved by a corrections officer before they can be accepted.
Failure to maintain updated registry information is a crime. This felony carries a maximum prison term of 10 years, in addition to any other penalties from the underlying case.
Building a Winning Defense
The right strategy is crucial for anyone facing these charges. This is true for those planning on taking their case to trial, but the right approach can also result in a favorable plea bargain as well. Some common strategies include the following:
Consent
These allegations are often about conduct that occurs without another person’s consent. Establishing proof that they were a willing participant is enough to defeat a wide range of criminal charges. It is important to note that certain crimes, like possession of child pornography, cannot rely on this strategy.
Lack of Evidence
The state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused committed an offense in order to obtain a conviction at trial. This is a high burden that prosecutors are not always able to meet. Highlighting the lack of proof is a common approach.
Illegal Search and Seizure
The police face limits on when they can search a home or seize someone’s property. Should they violate these rules, they breach the constitutional rights of a property owner. Illegal searches can make for a strong defense, given that any evidence found must be excluded from trial.
Mistaken Identity
There are times when a reporting victim is unsure of the identity of their attacker. If pushed by the police to identify a suspect, it is not uncommon for them to make a mistake. This can lead to an innocent person being arrested and charged with a crime. Our Erlanger lawyers could provide evidence to the jury that someone else is responsible for the sex crime in question.
Contact a Sex Crimes Attorney in Erlanger Today
If you face accusations of wrongdoing, it is crucial that you defend yourself as soon as possible. A favorable outcome might be within reach, but only with the right strategy.
Let an Erlanger sex crimes lawyer identify the correct approach. Call as soon as possible for a private consultation.