Sexual Assault

Facing charges of statutory sexual assault is undeniably one of the most overwhelming experiences a person can go through. Beyond the courtroom, the ripple effects can tear apart jobs, marriages, and standing within the community. The looming threat of being branded a sex offender—and the lifelong requirement to register—can feel crushing. During such a critical time, securing the help of a trusted criminal lawyer is essential to navigating the path ahead.

Understanding Sexual Assault Charges

Pennsylvania’s sex crime laws have been updated, bringing stricter penalties. It is now a first-degree felony to engage in sexual intercourse with someone under the age of 16 who is not your spouse, specifically when there is an age difference of 11 years or more.

A second-degree felony charge applies if the accused has sexual intercourse with a person under 16 who is not their spouse, and the accused is at least four years older than the alleged victim. This offense, known as statutory sexual assault, is a strict liability crime. This means that claiming the child consented or that you believed they were older is not a valid legal defense.

Crucial Points to Keep in Mind

• Mistaken Age is No Defense: Believing the child was older than they truly were does not protect you from charges.
• Consent is Irrelevant: Even if the child gave consent, it is not considered a defense under the law.
• Registration Requirements: Serious charges under the Sexual Offender and Notification Act often lead to mandatory sex offender registration.
• Public Exposure: Being a registered offender means your personal details and charge information are published online, often leading to social isolation and public shaming.

Steps to Handle Sexual Assault Charges

If you find yourself accused of sexual assault, immediate action is necessary. Consulting a skilled Morgantown DUI attorney can make a significant difference. We recommend the following steps:

1. Secure Legal Counsel: Hiring a reputable attorney is your first priority.
2. Stay Silent: Do not attempt to explain your side or assert innocence to law enforcement without counsel.
3. Protect Your Rights: Refrain from answering questions or giving statements until your lawyer is present.

Potential Penalties

A conviction doesn’t just mean potential jail time and heavy fines; it often results in a lifelong requirement to register as a sex offender, altering your life forever.

How Mountaineer Law Group Can Assist

As a respected group serving Berks County, our group has extensive experience defending against sex crimes, including statutory sexual assault. Our lead attorney, Sean Logue, is an experienced Morgantown criminal lawyer who meticulously reviews every piece of evidence gathered by police to ensure it is evaluated correctly. With a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating, our history as sex crimes defense attorneys demonstrates our capability.

We recognize that these charges can shatter your personal and professional world. To limit the damage to your reputation and freedom, it is vital to retain an aggressive Morgantown DUI attorney from Mountaineer Law Group immediately. We are committed to fighting for your rights and building the strongest possible defense.

During a free initial consultation, we will listen to your story, analyze the evidence, and outline your defense strategy. We will stand by you through every step of the criminal justice process, offering unwavering support.

For superior defense from a skilled Morgantown criminal lawyer, contact us online or call (304) 381-3656 today. Don’t wait to protect your future.