Clemson Sex Crimes Lawyer

Few types of criminal offenses can result in more substantial public scrutiny and more severe penalties upon conviction than those involving criminal sexual behavior. That being said, a person accused of a sex-based offense has all the same rights and legal options as someone accused of any other crime, and making effective use of those rights could be key to preserving your future prospects in the wake of such an allegation.

If you have been accused of any form of criminal sexual conduct, retaining a Clemson sex crimes lawyer may be key to protecting your best interests. A seasoned defense attorney with experience handling cases of this sensitive nature could provide tenacious legal guidance throughout every stage of the case against you.

What Constitutes “Criminal Sexual Conduct” Under State Law?

State law codifies three distinct degrees of criminal sexual conduct, all of which are felonies punishable upon conviction by multiple years of imprisonment. The least severe variant of this offense is criminal sexual conduct in the third degree, which South Carolina Code of Laws §16-3-654 defines as the use of coercion or force to engage in sexual battery with another person, or sexual battery without force or coercion against someone mentally incapacitated or physically helpless. A conviction here could lead to a maximum term in prison of ten years.

Under S.C. Code §16-3-653, second-degree criminal sexual conduct occurs when someone uses “aggravated coercion”—in other words, a reasonably believable threat to cause substantial physical harm—in order to commit sexual battery. A conviction under this section of state law could result in a maximum penalty of 20 years in state prison.

Additionally, S.C. Code §16-3-652 defines criminal sexual conduct in the first degree as sexual battery accomplished through aggravated force, forcible confinement or kidnapping, extortion, burglary, or the non-consensual administration of a physically or mentally incapacitating drug. A conviction for this offense has a maximum associated sentence of 30 years of imprisonment. Assistance from a Clemson sex crimes attorney could be crucial to mitigating the risk of life-changing consequences in the face of any degree of criminal sexual conduct charges.

How Authorities Prosecute Sexual Offenses Against Minors

A person over 18 who engages in sexual contact or intercourse with a child under the age of 16 has committed a felony criminal offense regardless of whether they used or threatened force to accomplish sexual battery. As per S.C. Code §16-3-655, there are three degrees of criminal sexual conduct with a minor, each differentiated by factors like the age of the minor allegedly involved and any familial or official authority the perpetrator had over that minor.

Sexual battery involving a minor less than 11 years old could result in a prison sentence upon conviction ranging from 25 years to life, and a second conviction for this particular offense is punishable by life imprisonment or death. Anyone facing allegations of this nature in Clemson should contact a sex crimes lawyer as soon as possible who could help them construct a strong defense strategy.

Speak with a Clemson Sex Crimes Attorney About Legal Options

Despite the severe repercussions associated with sex crime allegations, it is important to remember than an accusation does not always guarantee an eventual conviction. With assistance from skilled legal counsel, you could have a much easier time enforcing your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome to the charges against you.

A Clemson sex crimes lawyer could answer your questions about this unique type of case during a confidential consultation. Call today to get started on your defense.