Sexual battery is a felony in Ohio, meaning a conviction can lead to imprisonment, significant fines, and a criminal record. A conviction for sexual battery also requires registration as a sex offender, which can have severe consequences for employment, housing, and personal relationships. Needless to say, the stakes are high, and requires the assistance of a local sex crimes attorney.
I am a Lancaster sexual battery lawyer who can work tirelessly to shield you from self-incrimination by handling communication with law enforcement and other parties. I can provide crucial assistance by evaluating the evidence, identifying potential defenses, negotiating with the prosecution, and representing you in court.
Key Aspects of Sexual Battery Charges
Ohio Revised Code § 2907.03 is the state’s sexual battery law. In Ohio, sexual battery is defined as engaging in sexual conduct with someone where they are unable to consent or where the perpetrator is in a position of authority or control over them. The law defines sexual conduct broadly, encompassing various acts like male-female vaginal or anal intercourse, oral sex, and penetration with any body part or instrument.
Sexual battery generally involves engaging in sexual conduct with another person when the offender knows or has reason to know that the victim’s ability to understand or to control their own conduct is substantially impaired. This can include situations where the victim is substantially impaired due to mental or physical conditions, advanced age, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
It can also include scenarios where the alleged victim is unaware the act is occurring or mistakenly identifies the offender as a different romantic partner. The law addresses scenarios involving individuals in positions of authority over the alleged victim, such as parents, stepparents, guardians, teachers, coaches, or those in detention facilities. If you are accused of sexual battery in Lancaster, you need to contact an attorney right away.
Building an Aggressive Legal Defense
In Ohio, sexual battery is a third-degree felony, but it can be elevated to a second-degree felony under certain circumstances, such as when the victim is under 13 years old. Penalties can include prison sentences ranging from one to five years for a third-degree felony, or two to eight years for a second-degree felony, plus potential fines.
Individuals convicted of sexual battery will also face mandatory registration on the Ohio Sex Offender Registry, as dictated by the Ohio Rev. Code § 2950. As your Lancaster sexual battery defense attorney, I will build an aggressive defense that focuses on challenging the prosecution’s case and building a defense that mitigates the charges.
I will scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence at length, including physical evidence, witness testimony, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident. Consent is a critical element in sexual battery cases, and I will secure all related evidence to support your defense, such as alibis, documentation of consent (texts, emails), or evidence contradicting the allegations.
I possess decades of experience in criminal defense work, with a specific focus on defending clients accused of crimes like sexual battery. I will leave no stone unturned to defend your rights, future, and freedom.
Get the Legal Representation You Deserve from a Lancaster Sexual Battery Attorney
My wide ranging background as a Lancaster sexual battery lawyer means that I have the knowledge and resources to examine all evidence presented by the prosecution, including police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence. I will look for inconsistencies, errors, or insufficient evidence to build a strong defense.
My criminal defense law firm can challenge the admissibility of evidence if it was obtained illegally or improperly. I can also negotiate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or a plea bargain that is in your best interest. Reach out now to schedule your free case evaluation.
