Sex crimes in South Carolina attract severe penalties and the stigma associated with being convicted such a crime could cause difficulties in many areas of the person’s life. Furthermore, these crimes are usually difficult to battle in court without the right legal representation.
If you are facing any sex-related crime, you should contact the experienced Aiken sex crimes lawyers at Johnson, Johnson, Whittle, Lancer and Staggs (JJWLS) to help mitigate the consequences of such a charge. This could end up making all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Call our experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys today at (803) 649-5338.
What Are Sex Crimes?
Sex crimes in South Carolina are given the name Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC). CSC is of varying degrees and it generally refers to crimes involving any unwanted touching or attempted touching of a sexual nature, the use of force, and the presence of aggravating circumstances.
Sex crimes can vary widely in terms of severity from acts such as indecent exposure to very serious offenses such as sexual assault and rape. It’s important to note that criminal sexual conduct of any degree is regarded as a felony in the state.
What Are the Different Types of Sex Crime Charges?
Sex crimes in South Carolina are of different types, ranging from relatively minor to serious depending on the nature of the actions. Sex crimes include any illegal behavior, act, or activity that involves sexual gratification, arousal or desire.
Here are some of the most common types of sex crimes:
- Statutory Rape: Nonforcible sexual activity in which one party is below the age of consent
- Rape: Sexual penetration without consent
- Child Pornography: Possessing, producing or distributing explicit materials involving minors
- Child Molestation: A sexual act with a minor
- Sexual Assault: A non-consensual sexual act
- Indecent Exposure: Exposure of the genitals in public
- Bigamy: Marrying a person while still married to another
- Prostitution: Engaging in sexual acts in exchange for monetary or other compensation
- Incest: Sexual acts between blood relatives.
- Harassment/Stalking: Unreasonable intrusion into the private life of another person
Hiring an Aiken sex crimes lawyer to represent you when facing these charges is highly recommended. Always remember that an accusation doesn’t automatically translate to a conviction, and that every defendant has the right to put up a strong defense, which is exactly what the legal team at the Law Office of JJWLS in Aiken, SC can help you develop.
What Are Potential Consequences of Sex Crimes Conviction?
If you are convicted of a sex crime in South Carolina, you face several harsh consequences with social stigma being the worst. Other penalties for sex crimes range from fines to being incarcerated for lengthy periods.
Here is a list of penalties you may face after being convicted of a sex crime:
- Fees or Fines
- Incarceration
- Restitution
- Community Supervision
- Probation
- Treatment or Classes
If convicted of a sex crime, you will also be required to register as a sex offender, which can be a lifelong consequence and involves following certain rules such as being required to provide your personal information, such as your employment status and residential address to local law enforcement.
The sex offender registry is a lifelong requirement and can have serious collateral consequences impacting both personal and professional aspects of your life by making it difficult to find housing, employment, or even enrolling in classes.
The best way to mitigate these consequences is to have an experienced and very skilled Aiken sex crimes lawyer on your side.
What Are Common Defenses Against Sex Crimes Charges?
If you find yourself facing sex crimes charges in Aiken, South Carolina, there are some potential defenses that our Aiken sex crimes lawyers may use, which include but aren’t limited to the following:
- Challenging the Accuser’s Credibility: People can be manipulated to lie by overzealous social workers, police officers, parents seeking an upper hand in a relationship, in child custody proceedings and other situations.
- Elements of the Crime Haven’t Been Proven: A child may not have been the age claimed in the charging documents. There may be insufficient evidence that a sex crime was committed. If any element of a sex crimes charge isn’t proven, the entire case should be dismissed.
- Mistaken Identity: The wrong person is sometimes charged. Even people with the best intentions can sometimes get their facts wrong. A person may not remember clearly. Fortunately, our Aiken sex crimes lawyers can obtain DNA evidence and other evidence that can help shed light on a mistaken identity.
The best way to defend against sex crimes charges in South Caroline is by having a good understanding of the laws and nuances in the state. Fortunately, the Aiken sex crimes lawyers and legal team at JJWLS is very competent and will help you come up with the strongest defense possible.
Can Sex Crimes Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
If you’re being investigated or are already facing sex crimes charges, your life isn’t over. You can actually beat sex crimes charges, avoid prison, and avoid finding yourself listed in the sex offender registry with the help of our experienced Aiken sex crimes lawyers at JJWLS.
Besides getting sex crimes charges dropped by presenting a strong legal defense, we can even help you avoid those charges completely by pursuing legal strategies leading to outright case dismissal or reduced charges especially after securing our legal representation early on in the investigation.
Unfortunately, in some cases, the evidence may be too overwhelming against you. If you are convicted at trial, you likely face years in prison. In such cases, our Aiken sex crimes lawyers and legal team recommends a plea bargain to lesser charges as the prudent legal move.
What Should You Do If You’re Facing Sex Crimes Charges?
If you are facing sex crimes charges, you should immediately seek professional advice from an Aiken sex crimes lawyer with experience dealing with sexual offenses. Accusation of this nature are usually serious and carry potentially severe penalties and long-lasting consequences.
Here’s what you should do when facing sex crimes charges:
Call an Aiken Sex Crimes Lawyer
Hiring legal representation, even if you’re innocent is the first thing you should do. The legal team at JJWLS in Aiken, South Carolina will provide guidance on protecting your rights, understanding the charges you face, and help you avoid self-incrimination.
Collect Evidence and Witnesses
Our Aiken sex crimes lawyers and legal team will help you gather the evidence required to prove your innocence. This may include securing laboratory tests, finding and contacting witnesses willing to corroborate your story, and creating a timeline.
Don’t Speak to Your Accuser
If you’re facing sex crimes charges, you might be tempted to think that you can convince your accuser not to press charges, especially if it’s someone you know. Never make this mistake. You must never talk to your accuser about the charges.
Don’t Talk to the Police
The less you say to the police before talking to your Aiken sex crimes lawyer, the better. Again, this doesn’t automatically mean you’re guilty. Instead of attempting to tell your side of the story at the time of the arrest, you should leave that up to your lawyer.
Why Choose Johnson, Johnson, Whittle, Lancer and Staggs (JJWLS) for Your Sex Crimes Defense?
It’s vital to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after being arrested, or as soon as you know you are under investigation for a sex crime. At the Law Offices of JJWLS, we provide unique representation to our clients.
Here are some of the reasons why you should choose us to represent you:
Compassionate Expertise in Sex Crimes Defense
The Aiken sex crimes lawyers and legal team at JJWLS has a proven track record of providing compassionate defense for individuals facing sex crimes charges in Aiken, SC. Our expertise in this area of law helps us anticipate legal strategies and implement effective defense strategies.
We understand that every case is unique, which is why we tailor our legal strategies to the specific circumstances of the allegations you face. Using this personalized approach increases the chances of achieving the best outcome possible for our clients.
Experienced Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys
We always strive for the extraordinary in all areas of practice. We always take time to understand your case along with the surrounding laws and precedents inside out. We also have a good understanding of the complexity and sensitivity of sex crimes defense.
With over 40 years’ experience navigating complex sex crimes cases, we have the record that supports our high reputations. Our Aiken sex crimes lawyers will use our wealth of knowledge and legal experience to protect your rights and interests though each stage of the case.
Client-Centered Approach
Our clients matter the most to us. We firmly believe that everyone deserves respect and compassion. That’s why we welcome every client into our offices with warm smiles. At JJWLS, our Aiken sex crimes lawyers and legal team always take time to answer all your questions and help you better understand the process.
We always like to maintain open communication with clients and always strive to address their emotional needs. We don’t just talk; we also listen. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your case, you can always rest assured that we’re just a call or email away.
Contact Our Aiken Sex Crimes Lawyers Today!
If you are convicted of a sex crime in Aiken, South Carolina, you face severe consequences. Besides the social stigma and lengthy prison sentences, you will be left with a criminal record that may wreak havoc on your life until your death.
Our Aiken sex crimes lawyers at Johnson, Johnson, Whittle, Lancer and Staggs can help you. They can protect your rights and help the court understand your side of the story. Call us today at (803) 649-5338to set up a free consultation and case evaluation to see how we can help.
