Sumter Sex Crime Lawyer

Sumter Sex Crime Attorney

Facing criminal charges on the grounds of sex-related crimes can be terrifying. A conviction can come with severe penalties, and the stigma attached to these crimes has the potential to harm your future housing and employment opportunities. If you find yourself accused of a sex crime, you need the support of an experienced Sumter sex crime lawyer who can help you fight these charges and protect your rights.

Battling sex crimes in court can be near-impossible without the guidance of a trusted criminal defense attorney. These cases can involve a litany of unique factors and conflicting points of view from all involved. A sex crime lawyer from Deas Law Firm can prepare a solid defense to fight the accusations brought against you. They can also help you navigate any possible punishments associated with these charges.

Types of Sex Crimes in Sumter, SC

Sex crimes in Sumter can encompass a wide range of different offenses. These can include:

• Child Molestation: A sexual act committed against a minor can result in severe penalties.
• Rape: Nonconsensual sexual penetration of another person can lead to criminal prosecution and civil personal injury claims from the victim.
• Sexual Assault: Nonconsensual sexual acts being performed on another person can involve a wide range of severity, but they are all forms of sexual assault.
• Statutory Rape: Sex with an underage victim is illegal, as they cannot legally consent to such acts.
• Bigamy: This involves marrying an individual while being married to another.
• Incest: This involves acts of a sexual nature with blood relatives.
• Indecent Exposure: Exposing genitals in a public area can lead to legal consequences.
• Prostitution: This is the commission of sexual acts for monetary compensation or the exchange of other valuables.
• Illicit Materials: Possession and distribution of illicit sexual material, like child pornography, is strictly prohibited.

Let Deas Law Firm Fight for You

It is vital to consult a sex crime attorney as soon as you possibly can after an arrest or investigation for a sex crime offense. The reality is that not all criminal attorneys are the same, and you need someone who not only understands the laws surrounding these charges but also your unique case.

For over 24 years, the team at Deas Law Firm has worked on cases with dedication and tireless spirit in the pursuit of justice. We focus on providing a personal and compassionate criminal defense while working to avoid any severe punishments that could be associated with the charges you are facing.

We understand that just the allegations of a sexual offense alone can bring about a stigmatization that can haunt you for the rest of your life. That’s why it’s essential to have us on your side. You need someone who can advocate for not only your present situation but also your future.

Criminal Sexual Conduct and Penalties in Sumter

When dealing with sex crime charges in South Carolina, a strong defense is necessary. For this defense to be built, it is vital to understand the charges that are being brought against you and the relevant laws that are involved.

• Criminal Sexual Conduct in the First Degree: Sexual battery in the first degree is often defined as using threats, incapacitation, or aggravated force. These charges also apply to a situation in which the victim submits to the act of sex while confined, kidnapped, trafficked, experiencing burglary, or experiencing other threatening actions. This is considered a felony in South Carolina.
• Criminal Sexual Conduct in the Second Degree: This occurs when aggravated coercion is employed to commit a sexual act on a victim. The main difference between this charge and a charge in the first degree is the means that are used to confine or incapacitate the victim. This is also considered a felony in the state of South Carolina.
• Criminal Sexual Conduct in the Third Degree: This involves sexual battery against a victim by the use of force. Third-degree criminal sexual conduct is different from a second-degree offense in that the offender knows that the victim is incapacitated but did not cause the incapacitation themselves. This is a felony charge in South Carolina.
• Spousal Sexual Battery: This charge applies to situations in which a sex act is committed against a spouse with the use of force. Many states do not have a codified law against spousal rape. However, South Carolina does. A conviction can result in mandatory prison time served. Charges of domestic violence may also be associated.

Each of these charges comes with its own set of possible punishments. Therefore, it is essential that those facing these charges have a knowledge of the potential consequences that they may be dealing with in the future. An experienced Sumter sex crime lawyer can review the nuances of your situation. Then, they can explain the particular details of your case and the penalties that could be involved.

FAQs

Q: What Are the Laws in South Carolina for Sex?

A: In South Carolina, it is illegal to engage in sexual acts with:

• Another person who has not given their consent
• A person who does not have the ability to offer consent
• Someone who has been coerced into the sexual act

Those who engage in these acts can be charged with sexual assault and battery or criminal sexual misconduct.

Q: What Are Possible Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges in SC?

A: When facing prosecution for a sex crime charge in South Carolina, an experienced criminal defense attorney can use several strategies in your defense. These might include:

• Raising technical issues, such as filing your charge after the statute of limitations has passed
• Constitutional violations in cases where your rights have been violated
• Potential alibis establishing the fact that you were at a different place when the crime was committed

Q: What Is a Third-Degree Sex Offender in SC?

A: An individual commits criminal sexual misconduct in the third degree when they engage in sexual battery or assault against a victim by using force or coercion. They also know or have a reason to know that the victim is mentally incapacitated or physically helpless, but they commit the act anyway.

Q: What Are Potential Aggravating Factors Associated With Sex Crimes?

A: There are a number of aggravating factors that may be associated with sex crimes in the state of South Carolina. These can make the allegations brought against an individual more serious and include:

• The use of force
• The use of a weapon
• The involvement of a minor child victim
• The use of drugs to render the intended victim mentally and/or physically incapacitated

A Sumter Sex Crime Lawyer Can Be Your Advocate

If you’ve been charged with a sex crime in Sumter, it’s time to seek the counsel of a trusted sex crime attorney. These accusations need to be taken seriously, and there is no time to waste when looking for a solid and experienced defense. The team at Deas Law Firm can assist you in understanding the charges you’re up against and the consequences that may result if you are convicted.

Contact our offices today to schedule a consultation and see how we may be of service to you. We can discuss your case and ensure that your rights and future are protected. You may be feeling overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face these charges alone.

Contact Deas Law Firm Today

At Deas Law Firm, we work tirelessly for you to make sure you are fairly compensated on your personal injury case. From slip and fall cases or even catastrophic injury cases, Deas Law Firm is ready to fight for you and your rights. Call us today or fill out the online form to discuss your personal injury case.