Child sex abuse cases are uniquely difficult, but sadly, mistakes can occur when someone gets charged. False accusations of child sexual abuse can result in innocent people facing life-altering charges. Everybody deserves full representation in court, and getting assistance from a seasoned sex crimes attorney is critical to preserve your way of life.
No matter how serious the allegations of child sexual abuse in Lancaster, OH, you need an attorney to defend you, and I will do exactly that.
What Are the Possible Criminal Penalties Regarding Child Sex Abuse?
Ohio law classifies victims of childhood sexual abuse as being under 18 years old at the time of the alleged violation. If the child has a developmental delay or other disability, the age of minority can be up to 21 years of age, as outlined in Ohio Revised Code § 2305.111. State law specifically forbids statutory rape or unlawful sexual contact with a minor in ORC § 2907.04, as well as importuning, which is the solicitation of a minor under age 13 in ORC § 2907.07.
If convicted of child sex abuse, you could face life-changing consequences, such as a lengthy prison sentence, followed by probation. If you are a parent, you could lose your parental rights and custody of your child. You might also need to register as a sex offender, which could affect where you can legally live and your employment options.
As a practicing attorney for people in the Lancaster area, I have successfully defended against a wide range of child sex abuse charges. I understand the laws and appreciate how delicate these matters are for you, your family, as well as the community, so I could work diligently to protect your reputation as I stand up for your rights.
How To Defend Against Child Sex Abuse Charges
Whenever there is a possibility that child sex abuse has occurred, the police in Lancaster take the accusations very seriously in an effort to protect the child. However, it is also unconscionable when an innocent person could face false accusations of child sex abuse. An untrue allegation could unfairly tarnish your reputation, your ability to earn a living, and your relationships with your family members, and it could even affect where you are able to live.
I know how damaging false sexual abuse allegations can be. I can examine the circumstances of the allegation to see if the accuser or their family member had any motive for lying about what happened. By working with child psychologists and other renowned experts, we may be able to learn what happened. Sadly, children can sometimes make false accusations based on someone else’s suggestions. For instance, when people are going through a divorce, one parent could coach a child to make up a damaging allegation against the other parent in order to gain full custody.
Children could also make a false accusation if they are simply mad at an adult or if they want to hide something that they did themselves. I could sensitively, ethically, and confidentially perform a full investigation to uncover the evidence to expose any lies.
Speak With a Lancaster Attorney About Your Child Sex Abuse Claim
In such an important matter, it is critical that you do NOT speak to the police without an experienced Lancaster child sexual abuse lawyer working tirelessly to protect your interests. I know how to advocate for you, and what is needed to prove your innocence, allowing you to move forward with the rest of your life. With my help, you might be able to get a dismissal of the charges, a not guilty verdict at trial, or a reduction in the charges or penalties.
For a successful criminal defense attorney, call the office of Andrew H. Stevenson Attorney at Law, LLC today.
