Being accused of a sex offense is something you cannot take lightly. A conviction can have immediate negative impacts on the rest of your life. Many sex offense charges come down to one person’s word versus another’s. While these charges cannot be taken lightly, some cases involve consensual parties. Everyone has the constitutional right to tell their story on all sides of a case.
The laws surrounding these crimes are complex, so it is best to have a qualified legal professional in your corner. Starting a vigorous defense as soon as possible may prevent you from receiving the harshest penalties. Our hard-working criminal defense attorneys are not here to judge you but to defend your legal rights. Having a Metairie sex crimes lawyer by your side can make all the difference between spending years in prison and living a normal life again.
What to Know About the Charges
Sex crimes are actions of a carnal or sensual nature that generally are illegal or coerced against another individual. Some require a convict to register on a sex offender list, which can affect future job opportunities, relationships, and even where they can live. Some examples are:
- Possession of child pornography
- Rape
- Prostitution
- False imprisonment
- Incest
- Sexual battery
- Failure to register
- Indecent behavior
- Molestation of a juvenile
The penalties for these crimes can include hefty fines, prison time, disqualification from government benefits, and a criminal record.
The laws are complex, and several factors must be proven to secure a conviction. A lawyer in Metairie could show there is insufficient evidence for the sex crimes accusation and get it dismissed.
The Importance of Timeliness
Timeliness is important due to the statute of limitations, a law limiting the time allowed to file certain types of cases. Every state has different deadlines for different claims.
Statutes of limitations exist to preserve justice. One way they do so is by protecting defendants from untimely litigation. These legal time limits also encourage plaintiffs to practice due diligence in pursuing their claims and to file their cases on time. Timeliness is important because evidence for defendants and plaintiffs can get lost or forgotten as time goes on.
The state has no statute of limitations for crimes punishable by life in prison or death. Forcible or second-degree rape offenses have no time limit, but for third-degree rape, the deadline to file charges is six years.
The state has no statute of limitations for crimes punishable by life in prison or death. Forcible or second-degree rape offenses have no time limit, but for third-degree rape, the deadline to file charges is six years.
An important nuance arises when considering an underage alleged victim. The state age of consent is 17. The statute of limitations is 10 years for forcible rape, carnal knowledge, sexual battery, and other sex crimes against people who are younger than 17. However, the clock does not start until the victim turns 18. That means they have until age 28 to bring their claims forth. A knowledgeable attorney in Metairie can create the best defense to fight your sex crimes charges and improve your chance of a brighter future.
Contact an Attorney in Metairie When You Are Charged With Sex Crimes
Hiring legal representation is the best decision you can make when you are facing accusations of sexual crimes. Defense lawyers are crucial in shielding the rights of individuals accused of life-changing offenses. Hiring a Metairie sex crimes lawyer to handle your case promptly can give you the peace of mind you need. Reach out to our law firm today for a consultation and a plan to move forward.
