South Carolina Sex Crimes Lawyer

A charge for a sex crime is frightening. The repercussions can be quite severe, and the stigma attached to such a crime could cause difficulties in many areas of person’s life. Fortunately, a South Carolina sex crime lawyer could help mitigate the consequences of such a charge.

If you are facing any sex-related crime, contact a lawyer immediately. An experienced criminal attorneycould prepare a defense that could fight the accusation or mitigate the consequences of such a charge. This may make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

Criminal Sexual Conduct in the First-Degree

South Carolina Code Section 16-3-652 makes criminal sexual conduct in the first-degree a felony. A person may commit this offense if they engage in sexual battery with someone in any one of the following circumstances:

• Using aggravated force
• Forcibly confining or kidnapping someone
• During a robbery or burglary
• Using a drug or intoxicating substance to incapacitate another

According to South Carolina law, aggravated force is the use of physical force or violence or the use of deadly weapon to overcome another person. As a first-degree felony, this form of criminal sexual conduct is punishable by up to 30 years in a state prison.

A sex crimes attorney in South Carolina could argue that a person’s actions did not rise to the level of first-degree criminal sexual conduct or otherwise fight for the best possible outcome.

What is a Second-Degree Sexual Offense?

If someone allegedly commits sexual battery through the use of aggravated coercion, they may face charges of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. Under South Carolina Code Section 16-3-653, this crime is punishable by a maximum of 20 years in prison.

South Carolina statute defines aggravated coercion for this purpose as using force or violence or a highly aggravated nature to overcome another person. A South Carolina sex crime attorney may be familiar with overcoming the legal hurdles required to show that aggravated coercion did not occur.

Third-Degree Sexual Conduct

According to Section 16-3-654 of the South Carolina Code, a person may face allegations of third-degree criminal sexual conduct if they engage in sexual battery with someone if:

• Force or coercion is used
• The actor knew that the other person was incapacitated
• The alleged injured person was physically helpless

Third-degree sexual criminal sexual conduct is a felony in South Carolina. It is punishable by up to ten years in a South Carolina state prison.

When is Assault Considered a Sex Crime?

An assault is typically described as intentionally causing the imminent apprehension of a harmful or offensive contact. If someone commits an assault with the intent of engaging a form of criminal sexual conduct, that person may face charges as if they had committed the relevant degree of criminal sexual conduct. Those facing sex crime or assault charges in South Carolina should consult an attorney as soon as possible to determine their legal options.

A South Carolina Sex Crimes Attorney Can Be Your Advocate

Allegations of a sex crime in South Carolina could have severe consequences. Besides lengthy prison sentences, there could be long-term probation periods and a criminal record that may cause difficulties for the rest of a person’s life.

A South Carolina sex crimes lawyer could help you. They can protect your rights and help the court understand your side of the story. Call today to set up a free consultation to see how an attorney can assist you.