Any allegations of sexual misconduct are taken extremely seriously by law enforcement personnel and often pursued aggressively in Kent County. Resulting criminal charges can be devastating, with potential penalties that can last a lifetime.
It is imperative that anyone facing a charge involving a sex crime secure legal representation from an experienced Kent County sex crimes lawyer who understands how to build the best possible defense for them. Skilled defense attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure that facts are investigated fully and fairly and presented in the most favorable light to reach the optimum outcome. En Español.
Types of Sex OffensesAllegations involving sex offenses have become common in news media and new laws are frequently added to the books in response to public opinion. Accordingly, there is a long list of sex crimes in Michigan. Some of the more common include:
These crimes carry heavy penalties that include substantial prison sentences, large fines, and lifetime registration requirements. These offenses must be countered aggressively and thoroughly by a team of knowledgeable professionals.
Criminal Sexual ConductMichigan statutes use the term “criminal sexual conduct” to refer to a variety of offenses such as sexual assault, rape, and child molestation. Even the least serious, a fourth-degree charge, is punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $500.
Fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct involves sexual contact under certain conditions. The Michigan criminal code defines sexual contact as the intentional touching of intimate body parts (or the clothing covering those body parts) if the touching can “reasonably be construed” to be for sexual arousal, a sexual purpose, or in a sexual manner for revenge, humiliation, or in anger. Although this crime is treated as a misdemeanor, a conviction can still lead to a prison sentence of up to two years.
First, second and third-degree criminal sexual conduct offenses are all felony offenses involving sexual penetration. Generally, the crime is punished more severely if the alleged act is carried out against an individual who is young or incapacitated, or during the commission of another crime.
Internet Sex CrimesThe popularity of social media and proliferation of computers and cell phones has moved investigation of sex crimes into a new digital world. Information may be stored hidden on computers indefinitely, so that illegal material may be found on the computer belonging to someone who has no knowledge of it.
Individuals may also be unwittingly lured into inappropriate online conversations by law enforcement officials. Skilled Kent County sex crimes lawyers with previous experience defending against sexual offenses involving the internet, social media or other electronic communications will be able to use forensic computer evidence to build a solid defense against these charges.
Sex Offender RegistrationIn Michigan, those convicted of sex crimes are divided into three tiers for the purpose of sex offender registration requirements. Offenders considered to pose the biggest threat are placed on the third tier, and their names will be kept on the state registry for life.
Those convicted of lesser crimes are placed on the second tier and required to comply with registration requirements for 25 years.
Offenders considered to be less of a risk are placed on the first tier. Currently, the names of these offenders are not required to be listed on the sex offender registry, but that could change.
Working With a Kent County Sex Crimes AttorneyA criminal case involving sex crimes is emotionally-charged and the stakes are high. When you work with a top Kent County sex crimes lawyer, your attorney will provide guidance throughout the process and serve as your zealous advocate at all stages of the proceedings. You want someone with experience to help you reach the best possible outcome. Call now to get started.