Killen Sex Crime Lawyer

Killen, AL Sex Crime Attorney

Alabama’s legal system takes sex crimes seriously, and the penalties associated with such crimes are understandably severe. If you are facing sex crime charges, hiring an skilled Killen sex crime lawyer is critical to achieving a favorable outcome in court.

Everyone deserves sound legal counsel. The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC, represents clients facing sex crime accusations and provides robust legal advice and defense strategies for various types of sex crime charges.

Definition of a Sex Crime in Killen, AL

Sex crimes are sexual acts that are non-consensual, inappropriate, or illegal based on a victim’s age or the accused’s position of power in relation to the victim.

A majority of sex crime offenses are prosecuted at the state level. These include sexual abuse (contact), rape, sodomy, solicitation, or sexual exploitation of an adult. Charges of sexual assault, sexual battery, and sexual misconduct can also be levied against offenders who perform a sexual act not defined under the above terms. Any kind of sexual conduct with a person under the age of consent in Alabama constitutes a sex crime. In cases involving drug crime charges, particularly when drugs are linked to the commission of a sex crime, the legal complexities increase. It is essential to consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer who specializes in both sex crime and drug crime cases to ensure that your rights are fully protected throughout the legal process.

A sex crime becomes a federal crime if it is performed across state lines or is committed on federal property. Many cases involving children are also prosecutable at the federal level. Sexual assault of a child under the age of 12 may rise to the level of a federal crime. Solicitation of a minor and making, possessing, and distributing child pornography can be prosecuted at the federal level as well, as can sex trafficking.

Potential Penalties for Sex Crimes in Killen, AL

Sex crimes in Alabama are subject to strict penalties. Different sex crimes are categorized by class type, and they carry a range of punishments depending on the severity of the crime.

Class A felonies are the most serious crimes. Sex crimes categorized as Class A felonies include first-degree rape, first-degree sodomy, and sexual torture. They may carry lengthy prison sentences, including life without the possibility of parole and heavy fines.

Sex crimes such as rape in the second degree and sodomy in the second degree are Class B felonies. Class C felonies cover crimes like sexual abuse in the first degree. They carry shorter prison sentences and fines, with Class B felonies being more severe than Class C felonies.

Certain sex crimes are considered misdemeanors, including sexual misconduct and indecent exposure. Alabama misdemeanor penalties include a prison sentence shorter than one year and high fines.

Almost all individuals convicted of a sex crime and released under probation after serving their sentence must register as sex offenders in Alabama. Exceptions may include indecent exposure or sexual misconduct for first-time offenders and juvenile or youth offenders. Registered sex offenders face restrictions as to where they can live and work, as well as the type of work they can carry out upon release.

Persons convicted of violent sex crimes may also lose their right to vote and their Second Amendment rights. If you are facing charges related to a sex crime, consulting with an experienced drug crime lawyer can also be beneficial if there are allegations involving controlled substances in your case.

A Killen, AL, Sex Crime Lawyer Can Provide Effective Legal Support

An accusation of sexual assault or abuse carries tremendous weight, and having the right attorney by your side can help attenuate the already devastating impact of this charge and potential conviction. By working with a reputable Killen, AL, sex crime lawyer, you can rest assured you will be provided with a strong defense.

An effective lawyer is knowledgeable about Alabama sex crime law and utilizes their knowledge and experience to:

• Collect and review relevant evidence in support of your defense.
• Challenge evidence presented by the state to render it insufficient or inadmissible.
• Negotiate on your behalf during a plea bargain.
• Present effective defense strategies, including challenges to claims of non-consent or wrongful accusations.

In addition to incarceration and fines, a sex crime charge and conviction can tarnish your reputation, restrict your ability to live, move, and work in your community, and may even impede your ability to vote or exercise your Second Amendment rights. It is important to work with a skilled sex crime attorney who can stand by your side as you challenge sex crime allegations.

FAQs

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Sex Crimes in Alabama?

In Alabama, there is no statute of limitation for rape. Crimes involving a minor, including sexual abuse, sodomy, solicitation, or enticing a child to enter a property for the commission of an immoral act, have no statute of limitations either. Charges can be brought up against individuals for these crimes at any time following the offense. Charges for lower felonies and misdemeanors against adults have a statute of limitations and should be prosecuted within a specific period following the offense.

Do I Need to Register as a Sex Offender in Alabama?

You are required to register as a sex offender in Alabama if you have been convicted of a sex crime and have been released under parole. There are some exceptions for certain first-time offenders for the crimes of indecent exposure and sexual misconduct. Youthful and juvenile offenders may not need to register as sex offenders, depending on the severity of the sex crime.

What Can Sex Offenders Not Do in Alabama?

Registered sex offenders in Alabama cannot live, volunteer, or work within 2,000 feet of their victim or their immediate family members, schools, childcare facilities, parks, or playgrounds. They are also prohibited from residing with a minor unrelated to them. Sex offenders also cannot work in schools, childcare facilities, or businesses where services are delivered to children.

Can a Sex Offender Get a Pardon in Alabama?

Sex offenders cannot get a pardon in Alabama if they have been convicted of a Class A or Class B felony. Class C felonies and other sex crime misdemeanors may be eligible for a pardon depending on the circumstances of the crime. Sex crime convictions are typically not expugnable, and in most cases, the offender must remain in the sex offender registry.

Speak With a Killen, AL Sex Crime Lawyer Today

If you have been charged with or convicted of a sex crime, The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC, can work diligently to defend you in court and negotiate on your behalf in order to fight against sex crime charges raised against you. Schedule a consultation today so we can discuss your case.