When you’re facing sexual assault charges of any sort or severity, a conviction can have a long-term impact on your life. Because of the gravity of the matter, anyone charged with sexual assault should obtain legal assistance as soon as they can.
What’s at stake when someone is accused of sexual assault in Pennsylvania and surrounding areas? It is important to know what a competent defense lawyer can do to help those accused retain their freedom and reputation.
The Consequences of a Sexual Assault Conviction
A conviction for sexual assault can have extreme consequences for both your personal and professional life. Some of the critical consequences include:
- Jail Time. You could face jail time if you are convicted of sexual assault. Depending on the severity of the crime, you could be sentenced to anywhere from one year to life in prison. Even after serving this time, you may continue to have limited freedom and may be subject to strict restrictions on your movements.
- Sex Offender Registry. Anyone convicted of sexual assault is required to register as a sex offender. This will follow a person wherever they may go and may make it difficult to find employment or housing. It may also restrict a person’s freedom to travel.
- Damage to Your Reputation. A conviction for sexual assault will damage your reputation and may negatively impact your relationships with family and friends. It can also make it challenging to pursue future education, employment, or financial opportunities.
Sexual Assault Charges: How Can a Lawyer Help?
If you are charged with a sexual assault crime, don’t wait to seek legal help! An attorney can review your case and determine the best defense strategy for you.
Some common defenses include:
- The defendant may be able to prove that the accuser consented to the sexual activity.
- False Accusation. In some cases, defendants may argue that the accuser made up the story or lied about what happened.
- Lack of Evidence. If there is insufficient evidence linking you to the crime, or if law enforcement violated your constitutional rights while obtaining the available evidence, your lawyer may be able to get the charges dismissed.
- Duress/Coercion. If the defendant can show that they were forced or coerced into engaging in sexual activity against their will, this may be used as a defense.
Contact a Qualified Attorney Licensed in Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey
If you’ve been charged with sexual assault, contact The Brookman Law Group as soon as possible. We’ll carefully examine your case to look for weaknesses in the allegations against you, contact witnesses, and do all we can to help you exercise your rights and get results. Contact us at (267) 566-5598 for a risk-free consultation.
We target Philadelphia, PA; Camden, NJ; Gloucester City, NJ; Chester, PA; Darby, PA; and the other surrounding communities.