Navigating the Complex Laws of Serious Sex Crimes Charges
Have you or a loved one been accused of a sex crime? We know how overwhelming this process can be, and our firm is here to quickly step in, advocate for you, and do everything we can to protect your future. Understanding how these charges work and what to expect is the first step.
What Are the Most Common Sex Crimes Cases?
Sex crimes range widely in severity and the type of offense and can include everything from statutory rape to lewd conduct. Some of the common categories we help clients with include:
Internet Sex Crimes
These offenses often include allegations of online solicitation, exploitation, or communication-based crimes. Defendants may be identified in sting operations and undercover investigations or through information found on a search of their devices after being arrested for a different crime.
Child Pornography
Under Idaho law, accusations related to child pornography are generally prosecuted under the state’s sexual exploitation of a child crime. Evidence in these cases often comes from metadata on files and photos and may be part of a larger investigation.
Sexual Battery
Sexual battery is one of the more common sex crimes in Idaho and is defined as any “willful physical contact … with the intimate parts of any person.” The definition also includes that the contact must have been done without consent and with the intent to degrade the other person or for the sexual gratification of the perpetrator or someone else. The law here is broad, meaning many acts could fall within this statute.
If you’ve been accused of any of these crimes or other sexual offenses, such as rape, our firm is ready to prepare an aggressive defense strategy.
Will You Have to Register as a Sex Offender?
Many sex offenses in Idaho require the person to be on the sex offender registry if convicted. Being a registered sex offender is more than just having to report your address and personal information to the sheriff every year. It also comes with a significant stigma in the community and can keep you from participating in other activities, such as being able to volunteer at your children’s school. It’s important to remember that registering as a sex offender is only required if someone is convicted, and working with an attorney can help you explore strategies and options that could minimize this possibility.
What Should You Do When Facing Boise Sex Crimes Charges?
As soon as you’re aware that you’re under investigation for a sex crime or have been arrested, the first step in your defense is to contact an attorney. They can ensure you’re aware of your legal rights and help you react strategically instead of emotionally. It’s also critical to avoid answering questions without an attorney present or posting on social media about the case.
In many situations, these stories can start to take on a life of their own in the media and community forums. It’s normal to want to speak out to defend yourself, but it’s critical that you don’t. Your lawyer should do all of the communicating for you to ensure you don’t do or say anything that could make the situation worse.
Get Help From an Experienced Sex Crime Lawyer
At John Malek Law Group, we believe firmly that every person is entitled to the strongest criminal defense possible. It’s not our job to judge you or anything you may have or have not done. We’re here to help you protect your rights and your future. Call 208-747-0053 to schedule a free initial consultation with a sex crimes defense attorney. This is one focus area within our Boise criminal defense practice.
