Indecent Assault

Facing allegations of indecent or aggravated indecent assault in Somerset can have life-changing consequences. These charges can harm your reputation in the community, strain personal relationships, and even impact your professional life. The stigma associated with these allegations often leads to assumptions of guilt before any trial or verdict. When confronted with such serious accusations, it is critical to immediately seek help from an experienced lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.

Understanding Indecent Assault

Indecent assault refers to a range of non-consensual acts, often with sexual intent, that involve unethical contact. These charges may also include the use of bodily substances such as feces, urine, or semen. Here are the key elements that define indecent assault:

• Consent: The accused did not obtain the victim’s consent.
• Use or Threat of Force: The act involved coercion, intimidation, or threats.
• Sexual Intent: There was deliberate sexual intent behind the contact.
• Victim Unawareness: The act occurred while the victim was unconscious or unaware.
• Administration of Substances: Drugs or alcohol were used to incapacitate the victim.
• Age Criteria:
  • The victim was between 13 and 15, while the offender was over 20 and not married to the victim.
  • The victim was under 13 years old.
• Mental Capacity: The victim was unable to provide consent due to a mental disability.

Severity of Indecent Assault Charges

Charges for indecent assault can vary from misdemeanors to felonies based on:

• The frequency of the incidents.
• The specific circumstances of the case.
• Additional aggravating factors.

If you are facing these charges, consulting with a knowledgeable Somerset criminal lawyer is essential. A legal expert can guide you through your case and ensure you are treated fairly within the legal system.

Understanding Aggravated Indecent Assault

Aggravated indecent assault is a more severe charge that typically involves non-consensual penetration of the genitals or anus. This category of assault is considered a grave crime and carries heavier penalties. Below are the key characteristics:

• Force or Threats: The act involved force, coercion, or threats.
• Lack of Justification: The action served no lawful purpose, such as medical or hygienic needs.
• Victim’s Awareness: The victim was unconscious, unaware, or unable to resist.
• Use of Substances: The offender administered drugs or alcohol to impair the victim.
• Mental Disability: The victim lacked the mental capacity to provide consent.
• Victim’s Age:
  • The victim was under 13 years old.
  • The victim was between 13 and 16, with the offender being over 20 years old and not the spouse.

Penalties for Aggravated Indecent Assault

The consequences of an aggravated indecent assault conviction include:

• Up to 10 Years in Prison for standard offenses.
• Up to 20 Years in Prison if the victim is under 13.

Given these severe penalties, engaging an experienced Somerset DUI attorney is crucial. A skilled lawyer will assess the evidence, develop a strategic defense, and protect your rights during the legal process.

Defending Against Indecent Assault Charges

When accused of indecent assault, it is imperative to remain calm and take immediate action to protect your rights. Follow these crucial steps:

1. Hire a Qualified Attorney

• Retain a trusted Somerset criminal lawyer who specializes in defending against sex crime allegations.

2. Request Legal Representation

• Clearly express your right to an attorney and avoid answering questions from law enforcement until your lawyer is present.

3. Avoid Discussing the Event

• Do not discuss the incident with anyone, even to declare innocence, as statements can be used against you.

4. Be Respectful

• Maintain a calm and cooperative demeanor when interacting with law enforcement officers.

5. Prepare for Temporary Custody

• Be ready to spend a night in jail until bail or other arrangements are made.

And the best way to do that is to hire a Somerset DUI attorney right away.

How Logue Law Group Can Help

At Logue Law Group, we specialize in providing robust legal representation for individuals facing indecent or aggravated indecent assault charges in Somerset. Here’s how we support our clients:

• Thorough Case Analysis
  • We review all details of the case, scrutinizing evidence for inconsistencies or errors in the prosecution’s claims.
• Strategic Defense Development
  • Our legal team crafts individualized defense strategies to address the unique aspects of each case.
• Court Representation
  • We advocate for your rights in court, ensuring every step adheres to a fair legal process.
• Negotiation Expertise
  • When a conviction seems imminent, we aim to reduce the severity of sentencing or explore alternative resolutions.

Whether you need an experienced Somerset criminal lawyer our team is equipped to handle your case with dedication and expertise.

Contact Us Today

Confronting indecent assault charges in Somerset can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Logue Law Group is here to guide you every step of the way.

Call us now at 844.PITT.DUI or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. With Logue Law Group on your side, you’ll have a team committed to protecting your rights, reputation, and future.

And the best way to do that is to hire a Somerset DUI attorney right away.