Columbia Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Being accused of a sex crime can be one of the most difficult experiences a person can face. The looming threat of criminal sexual abuse charges can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. In addition, there is the stigma of being labeled as a sexual offender in the public sphere, which can be especially damaging if the case is high profile and garners a lot of media attention.
In these instances, it’s critical to consult with a Columbia sexual abuse lawyer who is knowledgeable in battery cases and can provide the best possible legal advice and representation available. Our aggressive sex crimes attorneys can fight for you and work to get you the best outcome possible.
What is Sexual Abuse?
Many people are confused by various sexual assault and sexual abuse terminology. As a seasoned attorney in Columbia could explain, sexual abuse is defined as subjecting another person to sexual contact without that person’s consent.
Examples of sexual battery can include groping and fondling without consent or sexual activity that does not include penetration with someone who is incapable of providing consent due to mental illness or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This is different than rape, for example, which involves sexual penetration without consent.
Penalties for Sex Abuse Crimes in Columbia
Sexual battery charges are serious criminal offenses that are punishable by jail time and hefty fines. Missouri law categorizes these charges in two categories: sexual abuse in the first degree or the second degree.
Sexual Abuse in the First Degree
This is defined as sexual contact with another person by force or threat of force, sexual contact with someone who is incapable of consent due to mental illness or being under the influence of drugs and alcohol or is physically helpless.
Missouri law categorizes sexual abuse in the 1st degree as a Class C Felony. A conviction of sexual abuse in the first degree in Columbia, can bring with it up to 10, and not less than 3, years in prison and/or monetary fines up to $10,000. If, however, the defendant subjects the victim to sexual contact with another individual, uses a deadly weapon as a threat, inflicts serious physical harm, or the victim is 14 years of age, then the charge is elevated to a Class B Felony. In those cases, sexual abuse charges can carry up to 15 years in prison.
Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree
A charge of Sexual abuse in the 2nd degree is brought if the perpetrator purposely subjects another person to sexual contact without that person’s consent.
This is a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a potential sentence of up to 1 year in jail and/or fines up to $2,000. If, however, it is an aggravated sexual offense, it becomes a Class E felony, and the sexual abuser can face up to 4 years in prison along with the potential for a fine of up to $10,000. A hardworking attorney in Columbia could investigate the details of a crime and fight to protect an alleged offender’s legal rights.
A Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help With Sexual Abuse Charges
Being convicted of sexual abuse charges can have long-term damaging effects on a person’s life, reputation, and career. It is important to contact a dedicated criminal defense lawyer who specializes in sexual assault cases as soon as possible.
Sex Abuse Defenses
An attorney will exhaustively investigate all the facts of the case to determine what defenses can be presented on behalf of the accused. Depending on the specific case, defenses against sexual battery charges may be:
- That the sexual contact was consensual
- That no sexual contact occurred
- That it is a false accusation or a case of mistaken identity
- That there is insufficient evidence
In addition, a skilled criminal defense attorney in Columbia can work with the prosecutor and attempt to reduce sexual battery charges or reach an agreement for a lesser charge.
Contact an Attorney in Columbia About Sexual Abuse Crimes
At the Law Office of Chris Miller, we understand the seriousness of sexual battery charges and can provide experienced legal representation for those accused of sexual battery in Columbia.
With a team of highly trained Columbia sexual abuse lawyers, we are dedicated to helping our clients reach the best possible outcome in their cases. Contact the Law Office of Chris Miller today for a free legal consultation.