Sex Crimes Lawyer in Cleveland

Helping You Defend Your Case

Being accused of a sex crime can come with severe consequences. Jail time, fines, and sex offender registration are all real consequences that could happen after a sex crime case. If you are facing sex crime charges or are being accused of a sex crime, it is essential to speak with a sex crimes defense lawyer as soon as possible.

At Watson Kuhlman, LLC, our legal team has extensive experience defending those arrested or charged with a sex offense. We can review your case and provide legal options to reduce or even remove the penalties you may face. Don’t hesitate to get legal representation today.

Which Charges Can You Help With?

Our team of attorneys can assist you with any sex crime charges you may be facing. We have years of experience in criminal defense and comprehensive knowledge of the legal system.

Our team has experience with the following charges:

Rape
Sexual abuse
Sexual assault
Incest
Marital rape
Kidnapping
Gross sexual imposition
Unwanted sexual contact with a minor
Voyeurism
Public indecency
Prostitution or solicitation
Child pornography

And more. If you have been accused of a sex crime or have been arrested for a crime, do not talk to law enforcement or go to court without legal counsel. Our team can negotiate on your behalf or gather evidence to defend you before a judge if necessary.

Our goal is to work with you every step of the way so you truly feel like you are part of your own defense team. No matter who the accuser is or what the allegation may be, we can help you. Call us today to learn more.

What Are the Penalties for Sex Crimes?

Sex crime charges are among the most serious offenses in the criminal justice system, often viewed by courts as particularly severe due to the sensitive and harmful nature of these crimes. A sexual crime conviction can have long-lasting consequences, including significant penalties and a permanent criminal record. The exact penalties depend on the classification and severity of the offense, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, each with distinct implications.

Penalties for Misdemeanor Sex Crimes

Misdemeanor sex offenses typically result in penalties that may include up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000. The specific penalties vary depending on the degree of the misdemeanor charge. Common misdemeanor offenses include public indecency, voyeurism, sexual imposition, and inappropriate sexual contact with a minor. While these charges are less severe than felonies, they can still carry significant consequences, including reputational harm and the potential requirement to register as a sex offender.

Penalties for Felony Sex Crimes

Felony sex crimes carry far more severe consequences, reflecting the serious nature of these offenses. Convictions for felonies such as rape, sexual battery, compelling prostitution, or voyeurism involving a minor can result in prison sentences of up to 16.5 years and fines reaching $20,000. The degree of the felony, along with the details of the case, influences the length of the prison term and the amount of financial penalties. Felony convictions also come with long-term impacts, including difficulties securing employment, housing, and other opportunities.

Protecting Your Rights

Facing charges for a sex crime is an overwhelming and life-altering experience. It’s crucial to understand your legal rights and the potential consequences of a conviction. Working with an experienced attorney who understands the intricacies of the criminal justice system can make a difference in building a strong defense against these serious allegations.

What Are the Charges for Unlawful Sexual Contact with a Minor?

In Ohio, anyone above 18 years old is not allowed to have sexual intercourse or sexual contact with anyone younger than 15 years old. Vaginal or anal intercourse, oral sex, molestation, and insertion of a foreign object all count as sexual contact. Any offender over four years older than the alleged victim will face more severe charges, including jail time and fines. Even short-term implications can damage your reputation and uproot your life, so don’t hesitate to reach out today.

What is the Sex Offender Registry?

For sex crime convictions, the court may determine that an individual must register with the sex offender registry. This registry is a public record of anyone convicted of a sex crime, meaning that any member of the public can access it.

In most cases, a judge will decide the length of time that a person must be registered. For that period of time, the individual has to provide their personal information to the local sheriff, including where they live. Unfortunately, registering with the sex offender registry can impact your ability to find housing, secure employment, or apply to college.

Sex offender requirements depend on which tier of the registry you are placed into.
The sex offender registry tiers include:

Tier I: Registration with local law enforcement for 15 years once a year. After ten years, the individual can petition to be removed.
Tier II: Registration with local law enforcement every 180 days for 25 years.
Tier III: Registration with local law enforcement every 90 days for life.

The consequences of becoming a registered sex offender can follow you around for life, especially if you are placed in Tier III. It is essential to consult a criminal defense lawyer if you are being accused of a sex crime to avoid penalties with life-long implications.

How Can an Experienced Defense Attorney Help Me?

Being accused of a sex crime can come with serious consequences that follow you around for life. Jail time, fines, and becoming a registered sex offender are real possibilities you may be facing as a result of a conviction. As experienced defense attorneys, our team will review your case and develop a defense strategy to protect your rights and minimize the penalties against you.

Don’t leave your freedom and ability to find housing or employment up to chance. At Watson Kuhlman, LLC, we have years of experience defending individuals from sex crime allegations.

We will always keep your best interests at heart to get you the outcome you deserve. Call our team today at 216-208-7858.