Sexual assault is an umbrella term that includes a wide range of crimes that involve sexual conduct of a non-consensual nature. No matter what type of sexual assault you’re accused of, the effects can be life changing. It’s common for the accused to want to hide under a rock to avoid the allegations but the truth is that you need to fight for the best possible outcome. Working with an experienced sexual assault defense attorney is the first step to beginning that fight.
Potential consequences of a conviction
You already know that these charges are serious but at Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell, we can’t stress enough just how seriously you must take the allegations. While the punishment for any particular conviction of sexual assault will vary based on the specific crime committed, whether or not weapons were used, how violent the act was, and how much harm was inflicted, punishments range anywhere from a year in county jail to decades in state prison.
In the event that a gun was used during the commission of felony sexual assault, you could be facing sentencing enhancements for using a gun, which can add even more prison time. In some cases, a non-violent crime, such as statutory rape between a minor and an adult that’s no more than three years older than the minor, can be charged as misdemeanors. Registering as a sex offender is a requirement for some specific crimes, though a judge can mandate it for anyone they think needs to register.
It’s not all bad news: You have defense options
Of course it’s scary to learn about the potential consequences of these crimes but the good news is that when you work with an attorney like Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell, you will have options. The best way to defend you will vary based on the specific charge and the evidence against you. In some cases, we may work to prove that the sexual activity was consensual.
We may also work to prove that you weren’t the person who committed the crime. Perhaps the charges were made up because the alleged victim wanted something from you, or perhaps the alleged victim simply identified the wrong person and there’s someone out there who should be standing trial in your place.
When there’s a preponderance of evidence against you, we may work for a plea bargain. Our goal is always to find the best possible outcome for you, which may mean attempting to have the charges reduced to a misdemeanor or finding a creative sentencing option. The first step is to call us at 909-920-0908 for a free case evaluation. We can give you advice on your specific case – all you have to do is call.
There are many attorneys out there but you can count on Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell to thoroughly investigate all the evidence, to fight tirelessly for your rights, and to keep you in the loop at all times. These are serious crimes and you need a serious attorney. Contact us today for more information.
