Warrenton Sex Crimes Lawyer

Various Sex Crimes an Individual Can Face in Warrenton

Many people know about sexual assault charges like rape, forcible sodomy, and object sexual penetration. But they might not fully grasp all the acts considered criminal in Virginia. It is vital to clearly understand the various types of sex crimes in Warrenton. Seeking guidance from a sex crimes attorney can help you understand the charges against you and create a strong defense strategy.

Some of the most common sex crimes in Virginia include the following:

Sexual Battery 

Misdemeanor sexual battery, according to Section 18.2-67.4 of the Virginia Code, involves non-consensual sexual abuse against another person. This crime is typically committed through force, threats, intimidation, or deception. It’s important to mention that a third conviction for misdemeanor sexual battery is considered a separate and distinct felony offense. A sex offender must be registered on the registry after a conviction for this charge.  

Infected Sexual Battery

This crime is committed when a person who has been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection, such as HIV, Hepatitis B, or syphilis, engages in sexual behavior that poses a substantial risk of spreading it to another.

Infecting another person with the intent to do so is classified as a Class 6 felony. However, if the act was done without this intention, it is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Carnal Relations With a Minor

This sex offense involves various forms of sexual activity, including intercourse, oral sex, sodomy, and object penetration. The severity of the crime depends on the age difference between the minor and the defendant.

 It is a Class 4 felony if the consenting minor is between 13 and 15 years old and the defendant is not more than three years older. However, if the minor is less than three years younger, it is a Class 4 misdemeanor.

Additionally, if the accused is more than 3 years older than the minor, it is a Class 6 felony offense.

Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child

There is also a sex offense known as taking indecent liberties with a child, covered in 18.2-370. While the statute is quite lengthy, the conduct of taking indecent liberties includes the following sexual acts: 

• Showing their own sexual or genital parts to a child to whom they are not legally married.
• Suggesting to a child that they show their private parts to a third party.
• Suggesting that a child touch or explore their own sexual or genital areas or those of another person.
• Suggesting that the person touch or caress the child’s sexual or genital parts.
• Suggesting to a child to engage in sexual intercourse or any act that would be considered an offense under 18.2-361 (sodomy).
• If a person who is 18 years of age or older knowingly and intentionally commits any of the mentioned acts when the victim is under 15 years of age.

Prostitution or Solicitation

Engaging in prostitution or soliciting prostitution is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor offense. This means it’s illegal to exchange sexual services for money or any other valuable thing or to ask a third party to participate in such a transaction.

Attempted Sex Crimes

Committing sex crimes, like non-consensual sexual penetration, statutory rape, or forcible sodomy, is considered a Class 4 felony. Sexual battery is a Class 6 felony, and an attempt is treated as a Class 1 misdemeanor.

The Benefits of Working with Ashwell & Ashwell’s Sex Crimes Attorneys

If you are facing accusations of a sex crime, whether you are guilty or not, it’s vital to seek legal advice and representation immediately. Our team of trials lawyers can provide invaluable support by:

• Investigating Your Case: Sex offenses are complex, delicate, and often fraught with false accusations. We can meticulously gather evidence, consult professional witnesses, and conduct a thorough investigation to uncover inconsistencies in the accuser’s story. At Ashwell & Ashwell PLLC, our skilled attorneys have handled numerous Virginia sex crime cases and have the knowledge, experience, and connections to help you build a strong defense.
• Guiding You Through Plea Bargains: If the possibility for a plea bargain arises, one of our attorneys will assist you in assessing whether a plea bargain is in your best interest. By considering the circumstances of the incident and assessing the strength of the prosecution’s case, we can help you determine whether a plea bargain offers a better outcome.
• Providing Strategic Defense Representation: Defenses such as mistaken identity, consent, and the Romeo and Juliet exemption can often result in reduced sentences or dismissal of charges. Using our experience in sex crimes, we will carefully craft a defense strategy that will ensure your side of the story is presented convincingly.