Morgantown Sex Crimes Attorney

Sexual offenses rank among the most serious criminal charges in West Virginia. A conviction can result in severe, life-changing penalties, including substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences. Understanding the different categories of sex crimes under West Virginia law is essential if you or someone you know is facing these charges.

Sexual Assault in the First Degree

A person commits first-degree sexual assault in West Virginia when they engage in sexual intercourse or sexual intrusion with another individual and, during the act, inflict bodily injury or use a deadly weapon. This charge also applies if the accused is 14 years of age or older and engages in sexual intercourse with someone under the age of 12 (to whom they are not married).

First-degree sexual assault is classified as a felony in West Virginia. A conviction carries a prison sentence ranging from a minimum of 15 years to a maximum of 35 years in a state correctional facility. Additionally, those found guilty may face fines between $1,000 and $10,000.

Sexual Assault in the Second Degree

Second-degree sexual assault occurs when a person engages in sexual intercourse without the other person’s consent, typically through forceful compulsion. This charge may also apply if the accused engages in intercourse with someone who is physically helpless or incapacitated. If you’re facing such allegations, consulting a Morgantown criminal lawyer can help protect your rights.

This offense is also considered a felony in West Virginia. Upon conviction, the defendant faces imprisonment for no less than 10 years and no more than 25 years. Fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 may also be imposed.

Sexual Assault in the Third Degree

Third-degree sexual assault involves engaging in sexual intercourse or intrusion with someone who is mentally defective or mentally incapacitated. This charge also applies when the accused engages in such acts with a person younger than 16 years old, provided the accused is at least four years older than the victim.

Third-degree sexual assault is a felony in West Virginia. A conviction results in a prison term of at least one year and up to five years in a state correctional facility. The court may also impose a fine not exceeding $10,000. Seeking guidance from a Morgantown DUI attorney or criminal defense professional in Monongalia County can be critical in navigating these charges.

Sexual Abuse in the First Degree

First-degree sexual abuse is charged when someone forces another person who is physically helpless to engage in sexual contact without consent. This offense also applies if a person aged 14 or older subjects someone 12 years old or younger to sexual contact.

Sexual abuse in the first degree is a felony in West Virginia. A standard conviction carries a sentence of at least one year and up to five years in a state correctional facility, along with a potential fine of up to $10,000. However, if the defendant is 18 years or older and the victim is 12 years or younger, the penalty increases significantly: the prison term ranges from a minimum of five years to a maximum of 25 years, and fines may reach as high as $5,000.

If you are facing allegations of first-degree sexual abuse, it is critical to speak with an experienced Morgantown criminal lawyer as soon as possible to understand your rights, potential defenses, and the legal process ahead.

Protect Your Rights with Experienced Legal Representation

If you have been charged with sexual assault or sexual abuse in Monongalia County, it is crucial to seek legal counsel immediately. Contact a lawyer from Mountaineer Criminal Law Group at 412.387.6901 or reach out online to schedule a consultation at our Morgantown, West Virginia office. Our experienced Morgantown DUI attorney team is ready to defend your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.