Top Sterrett, AL Sex Crime Lawyers Near You

Visit our free Sex Crime Resource Center.

What Is a Sex Crime in Alabama?

Sex crimes include a wide variety of criminal offenses. Sex crimes include sexual conduct or a sexual act motivated by sexual arousal or sexual gratification. Sex crimes may also include unlawful sexual contact or sexual activity through force or without consent. Some victims of sex crimes cannot give consent because they are impaired or under the age of consent. Possession of illegal sexual material may also be considered a sex crime, including child pornography.

What Are Examples of Common Sex Crimes?

There are many types of sex crimes, including rape, sexual assault, prostitution, solicitation of a minor, lewdness, indecent exposure, statutory rape, child molestation, sexual battery, and internet sex crimes. Sex crimes can be charged as federal offenses or as state crimes. Sex crimes involving children, child pornography, or sex trafficking are often prosecuted in federal court.

Is a Sex Crime a Misdemeanor or Felony?

Some sex crimes are considered misdemeanors and others are felony offenses. Some sex crimes could be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the type of offense. Sex crimes can also vary by degree (such as 1st-degree sexual assault or 2nd-degree sexual assault.) The penalties for a felony conviction are generally more severe than for a misdemeanor. Sex crime charges like public lewdness, indecent exposure, and solicitation of prostitution are often classified as misdemeanors. Misdemeanors generally have a maximum prison time of one year. More severe sex crime cases are generally tried by the district attorney as a felony. Sex crimes that are generally felony offenses include rape or aggravated sexual assault, distribution of child pornography, or child sexual abuse. Felony convictions often result in longer prison sentences and additional consequences after release.

What Are Penalties for a Sex Crime Conviction in Alabama?

The penalties for a sex crime conviction depend on several factors, including the type of crime, violence involved, age of the victim, relationship between the alleged victim and the alleged perpetrator, criminal history, and other factors. The penalties for a felony sex crime could include a term of years of jail time, including up to 10 years or more. Other consequences of a sex crime could include paying restitution, mandatory counseling, and registering as a sex offender.

Will I Have to Register as a Sex Offender in Alabama?

After serving the prison sentence, the person convicted may be designated as a sex offender. A sex offender has to register with law enforcement when they are released from prison, and re-register every year or if they decide to move. Failure to register as a sex offender can be a criminal offense. The sex offender registry is generally searchable by the public. Neighbors, employers, or family members could search the Alabama sex offender registration, which may include the offender’s name, photograph, address, and sexual offenses.

What Should I Do After a Sex Crime Arrest?

You have rights after you are arrested and accused of sex crime allegations. Many people who are arrested for a sex crime want to cooperate with the police to explain that it is all a misunderstanding. They may even try and contact the alleged victim to talk to them about the false accusations. However, this can be a bad idea and it can hurt your criminal defense case. If you are accused of a sex crime, make sure you understand your rights and talk to a sex crimes lawyer about handling the criminal charges. A sex crimes defense lawyer can help you with legal advice and defense strategies in your criminal case.

What sort of issues can I seek legal help with?

Specialized legal help is available for most legal issues. Each case is unique; seeking legal help is a smart first step toward understanding your legal situation and seeking the best path toward resolution for your case. An experienced lawyer understands the local laws surrounding your case and what your best legal options might be. More importantly, there are certain situations and circumstances – such as being charged with a crime – where you should always seek experienced legal help.

How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation

Prepare for your consultation by writing down notes of your understanding of the case, jot down questions and concerns for the attorney, and gather your documents. Remember that you are trying to get a sense of whether the attorney has your trust and can help you address your legal issues. Questions should include how the attorney intends to resolve your issue, how many years he/she has been practicing law and specifically practicing in your area, as well as how many cases similar to yours the attorney has handled. It can also be helpful to broach the subject of fees so that you understand the likely cost and structure of your representation by a specific attorney and/or legal team.

Tips on Hiring an Experienced Lawyer with Sex Crime Cases

The more experienced a lawyer is in legal practice, the more likely he/she will be able to bring about a successful resolution to your issue. Since experience matters, lawyers who’ve been practicing law for many years (with a successful track record) tend to be in high demand. You should look for information about a lawyer’s experience and ask questions during the initial meeting. It’s a very good idea to ask the lawyer how many years he/she has been practicing law and the expected outcome of your case.

Common legal terms explained

Affidavit – A sworn written statement made under oath. An affidavit is meant to be a supporting document to the court assisting in the verification of certain facts. An affidavit may or may not require notarization.