Weston Sex Crimes Lawyer
If you’ve been contacted by the police regarding a sex crime, it is wise to learn all you can about the allegations and potential ramifications, even if charges have not been filed. A Weston sex crimes lawyer could work with you to build a strong defense strategy tailored to the unique facts of your case.
What Are Some Examples of Sex Crimes in CT?
Sex offenses are described in the state criminal code starting at Connecticut General Statutes §53a-65. An experienced Weston sex crimes attorney knows how to build a successful strategy to fight charges involves offenses such as:
- Sexual assault (First, Second, Third, and Fourth Degree)
- Solicitation and prostitution
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Enticing a minor
- Rape/statutory rape
- Possession of child pornography
- Public indecency
- Sex trafficking
Regardless of the offense, the best time to collect evidence to refute the charges is right after the incident leading to the charge. An accomplished attorney could help with the process of collecting and preserving all evidence, most importantly that which is helpful to you, so it is ready for use in negotiations or at trial.
What is Sexual Assault in Weston, Connecticut?
Many traditional sex crimes are defined under various degrees of sexual assault in the Connecticut General Statutes. First-degree sexual assault under Connecticut General Statutes §53a-70, is comparable to the definition of rape in many jurisdictions. It may involve a person compelling another to engage in sexual intercourse based on threats or use of violence. Intercourse with a young minor or mentally handicapped person may also be treated as sexual assault in the first degree, a Class A or B felony.
Second-degree sexual assault, under CGS §53a-71, is defined to include many situations traditionally described as “statutory rape.” This kind of assault does not necessarily involve violence; it is committed when an individual has sex with a person who is unable to give legal consent.
A Weston sex crimes lawyer may be able to argue that a situation charged as first- or second-degree sexual assault is more properly classified as third- or fourth-degree sexual assault, which are penalized less severely.
What are the Penalties for Sex Crimes?
Many sex crimes are classified as felonies, although a few can be treated as misdemeanors. A misdemeanor offense is punishable by at most, one year of imprisonment and a fine of $2,000. A Weston sex crimes attorney could seek alternative penalties if available.
The maximum sentence for felony sex crimes ranges from five years for a Class D felony to 25 years for a Class A felony. Maximum fines vary from $5,000 to $20,000.
In many situations, however, it is the consequences beyond jail time and fines that have the most significant long-term impact. Individuals convicted of many sex crimes must register as sex offenders. Even where the registry is not required, the social stigma attached to any allegation of sexual misconduct can affect social interactions and limit opportunities for jobs, housing, and more.
Work with a Dedicated Weston Sex Crimes Attorney
An experienced Weston sex crimes lawyer knows how to anticipate and work through complicating factors to help minimize the potential for negative outcomes. For more information about how a dedicated legal advocate could help in your situation, call Mark Sherman Law.