Legally, sexual abuse is a broad term. It can include a variety of potential crimes, from sexual exploitation to rape and assault. If you have been accused of sexual abuse, you likely already know that it can carry severe consequences—including significant jail time. By working with a Fairfax sexual abuse lawyer, you can determine the right defense for your case and work to protect your freedoms as it moves forward. Meet with our sex crimes defense attorney today.
Sexual abuse can include a range of potential crimes, including any sexual contact that the victim suffers or consents to due to force or fear of violence. Common examples of sexual abuse include:
Sexual abuse can also include sexual exploitation, including the collection and distribution of pornographic material or coercing someone to have sex with another party. If you have been charged with any form of sexual abuse in Fairfax, talk to an attorney at The Leiva Law Firm today.
In sexual abuse cases, the question of consent often comes to the forefront. Legally, if a victim does not give consent to a sexual act, it can be considered sexual abuse or coercion. Consent is not present if:
In addition, a minor is not considered legally able to give consent for sexual acts, especially sexual acts with an adult. As a result, sexual abuse of a minor can carry heavier consequences than sexual assault of an adult. If you are facing allegations related to consent, let a Fairfax attorney carefully evaluate the facts of your sexual abuse case and build a defense.
The penalties for sexual abuse often depend heavily on the type of abuse committed and the level of crime. Sexual assault that leads to serious injury or bodily harm carries more severe consequences than assault without injury or bodily harm, including longer jail sentences. However, any type of sexual abuse or assault can result in jail time and fines.
In addition to the criminal consequences of sexual abuse, some defendants may face personal challenges, including job loss, loss of professional licenses, or the requirement to place themselves on the sex offender registry. They may also have limitations on their movements and freedoms even after completing a prison sentence. A sexual abuse attorney in Fairfax can provide the strong defense and personal support you need during this difficult time.
While consent is a common factor in many sexual abuse defenses, a lawyer may also recommend other defenses, based on the unique circumstances of a Fairfax case. These may include mistaken identity, false reports, an alibi at the time of the supposed abuse or assault, and evidence that the alleged victim has a motive to fabricate.
An attorney can also go over the investigation methods used by law enforcement, the forensic interview of the alleged victim, and the collection of evidence.
If you were accused of sexual abuse, a Fairfax sexual abuse lawyer can help you not only manage your defense but also protect your rights and freedoms as the investigation moves forward. At The Leiva Law Firm, we have been fighting and winning courtroom battles for 25 years. When you are accused of sexual abuse, with all the consequences it can bring with it, that courtroom experience matters. Contact us for your case review.
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