Huntington Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer

Sexual Abuse Defense Attorney In Huntington, WV

Being accused of sexual abuse in West Virginia is a terrifying and overwhelming situation. A convicted individual could find themselves facing lengthy periods of jail time and large fines. Whether you’ve been accused of sexual abuse resulting from a mistake that took place in your Beverly Hills home or from a misunderstanding in Anita Heights, you need a Huntington, WV, sexual abuse defense lawyer who can work to protect your rights and freedoms.

Meadows Law PLLC Can Provide a Strong Defense Against Your Charges

If you have been accused of sexual abuse in Huntington, Meadows Law PLLC can compellingly defend you. We know that this is an uncertain time, and you are understandably feeling uncertain regarding your future. Sexual abuse cases are typically handled through the Cabell County Circuit Court on Fifth Avenue in Huntington. The team at Meadows Law PLLC has years of experience in operating at this courthouse, and we can put that experience to work for your case.

Defining Sexual Abuse in Huntington, WV

In West Virginia, sexual abuse can be charged in three different ways. In the first degree, sexual abuse is a felony. However, sexual abuse in the second or third degree is treated as a misdemeanor crime.

Acts of sexual abuse in West Virginia can include any kind of forced or coerced sexual contact that is unwanted or not consented to by the victim. These can involve:

• Touching the victim’s breasts or genitals
• Groping
• The insertion of foreign objects into the victim’s orifices
• Any kind of rape
• The viewing of explicit material or sexual acts

Typically, these acts are taken against an individual who is physically unable to consent or fight back. Anyone in Huntington who is aged 14 or older and forces themselves upon someone 12 or younger can be convicted of first-degree sexual abuse. If you are accused of committing these actions, you need to hire a skilled sexual abuse defense lawyer. They can investigate your case to search for exonerating evidence.

Penalties for a Sexual Abuse Conviction

When an individual in West Virginia is convicted of a sex crime, such as sexual abuse, they can face several severe penalties. Understanding the consequences you might be subjected to is important when fighting against sexual abuse charges. They can include:

• Fines. Severe fines are common for those who have been convicted of sexual crimes, including sexual abuse. This can add to your financial strain and make an already difficult situation even more complicated.
• Lengthy prison times. Convictions for sex crimes, like sexual abuse, often lead to substantial jail time. The length of a jail sentence will ultimately depend on the specifics surrounding the alleged offense.
• Restraining orders. The courts may decide to issue a restraining order against an alleged sexual abuse offender. This would limit the individual’s ability to contact the supposed victims or visit certain locations.
• Probation. In certain cases, those convicted of sexual abuse in Huntington may face a period of probation, and they might also be required to obey strict conditions mandated by the courts.
• Sex offender registry. When an individual is convicted of a sex crime in West Virginia, they will likely be required to register as a sex offender. This will affect various aspects of their personal and professional lives. Convicted individuals face a 30% unemployment rate across the country.

Avoiding these possible penalties makes it vital to hire an experienced Huntington sexual abuse defense attorney. They can review your case, tailor a defense strategy, and work to defend your case in negotiations or a court trial.

FAQs

Will a Sexual Abuse Case Go to Trial?

It is normally the goal of a defense lawyer to keep their client’s case out of the courtroom and negotiate a lesser sentence, reduced charge, or case dismissal. Nevertheless, a small number of sexual abuse defense cases do end up going to court. A little over 2% of all criminal cases are brought to trial. If this happens in your situation, know that your attorney can fight hard for you throughout the criminal court process.

Do I Need to Hire a Defense Lawyer for a Sexual Abuse Case?

While hiring a defense lawyer to represent you in a sexual abuse case is not required by state law, their presence can be crucial for seeking the most favorable outcome possible. Your attorney knows the state’s sexual abuse defense laws, so they can find the ideal ways of defending you. They can review the details of the allegations against you, build your strategic defense, and ultimately argue this defense to reach your desired outcome.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Sex Crime Cases in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, the statute of limitations for sex crime cases will vary, depending on when the crime allegedly occurred and also on the degree of felony involved. For example, in cases where the alleged victim was over the age of 18 when the abuse took place, then they will have two years to bring their case forward. However, in cases of child abuse, the statute of limitations is lengthened.

What Are Some Defenses Against Sex Crimes in WV?

Several defense strategies may be used in a sex crime case, depending on the nature and severity of the alleged crime. Your attorney can argue that:

• There is a lack of evidence needed to convict you.
• You received consent from the alleged victim.
• You have suffered a false allegation.
• The police violated your rights at the time of your arrest.

Hire a Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has been accused of sexual abuse in Huntington, WV, you need to hire a sexual abuse defense lawyer as soon as possible. These are serious accusations and should not be taken lightly. To successfully navigate your case, you need legal counsel and representation from Meadows Law PLLC. Contact our offices today to learn more about our defense services by scheduling your consultation with our firm.