
Savannah Sex Crime Lawyer
Representation You Can Trust With Your Future on the Line
Being accused of any crime in the state of Georgia is a burdensome and frightening experience. When it comes to being accused of a sex crime, you are in for a much tougher time. The state of Georgia is known for having some of the most stringent sex offender standards, along with some of the most severe penalties.
These cases often have a natural bias against the defendant, even if you are innocent. The dangers you face, if you are accused of a sex crime, include the possibility of years in state prison. It is imperative to seek legal representation from a sex crime lawyer in Savannah with a solid record of handling these complex cases.
Call Schneider Lerch, LLC at (912) 417-5008 or reach out here online to get experienced, dependable, empathetic representation. Your initial consultation is free.
Sex Crimes Cases We Handle
In the state of Georgia, there is a wide range of sex crimes, each carrying different penalties. What makes the laws so complex, however, is that the penalties can also change depending on whether the crime is designated as a misdemeanor or felony.
Some examples of sex crimes include:
- Rape and statutory rape
- Sexual assault and sexual battery
- Sex crimes on the Internet
- Soliciting minors by use of the Internet
- Sodomy and aggravated sodomy
- Prostitution and solicitation
- Indecent exposure
- Child pornography possession and distribution.
Our legal team is adept at dissecting each case to uncover any nuances that could affect the outcome. Whether it's identifying procedural mishaps during investigations or leveraging character witnesses, we explore every avenue to build a robust defense. Being well-versed in both state and federal laws, we adapt our strategies according to evolving legal precedents, ensuring your defense is current and comprehensive.
What are the Consequences for Sex Crimes in Georgia?
Understandably, committing a sexual crime against another person can cause terrible trauma to those victims. However, for those unfairly accused of committing a sexual crime, the charge spells out the virtual ending of one's life. Even if you manage to survive the extremely harsh environment and bias that occurs against alleged sex crime offenders, there are lifelong consequences as well.
The social stigma attached to such accusations can isolate the accused from their communities, impacting employment opportunities and personal relationships. Our Savannah sex crime attorney is committed not only to defending against the charges but also to helping you rebuild your life post-trial. We work closely with rehabilitation counselors and other support structures to provide a holistic defense strategy that takes into account your personal well-being as well as legal interests.
Sex Offender Registry Challenges
In addition to potentially lengthy incarceration, you will be forced to register as a sexual offender if your offense was counted as a felony. The sex offender registry is an online database that has your name, age, distinguishing characteristics, and details about the crime for which you were convicted. Once you are on this registry, it becomes extremely difficult to get employment, housing, loans, or even insurance.
Our legal team vigorously explores every possible measure to keep you off this registry or, if necessary, works towards expungement at a later time. We examine all relevant factors that could potentially influence registry requirements and negotiate skillfully to mitigate your listing. Staying up-to-date on legislative changes, we provide guidance on the latest legal avenues available to alter or reduce registry obligations.
How Can We Protect Your Rights in Sex Crimes Cases?
When facing sex crime charges, it's crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced legal team on your side to protect your rights and defend your case. At Schneider Lerch, LLC, our Savannah sex crime attorneys have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in a variety of sex crime cases, including sexual assault, rape, child pornography, and more.
Our dedicated team understands the sensitive nature of these cases and will provide you with the compassionate and aggressive representation you need during this challenging time. We will thoroughly investigate the details of your case, challenge evidence, and advocate for the best possible outcome for your situation.
With severe consequences at stake, including potential incarceration, fines, and lifelong registration as a sex offender, it's essential to have a skilled legal team fighting for you. Contact Schneider Lerch, LLC today to schedule a consultation and start building a strong defense for your case.
Contact our sex crimes attorneys in Savannah today by calling the office at (912) 417-5008 or by filling out our online contact form.
What are Potential Defenses Against Sex Crimes Charges?
Because we have an exceptional level of trial experience, our first duty to clients is to fully review the facts of their cases. Every detail is analyzed carefully, including police procedures. There are many cases in which the defendant's rights have been violated.
You are protected from certain police actions by the Constitution, and when police monitor you, they must have a reasonable cause. To enter your home or office and search, they are required to have a search warrant unless you allow them voluntarily. If your computer, phone, or other digital device was taken by police without following the correct procedure, this evidence may be inadmissible. We need to find out what happened.
You may have been accused of committing a sex crime based purely on someone else's testimony. Although it is common to believe an alleged victim, there are many cases on file in which a person made false accusations. This can occur after a consensual sexual act that the person later regrets and now claims was not consensual.
Our knowledgeable Savannah sex crime attorneys are acutely aware of the methods that law enforcement officials utilize to investigate cases, which can sometimes be mistaken, sloppy, or even deceitful and malicious.
What Is the Age of Consent in Georgia?
In cases involving consensual adults, if the defendant can show that the alleged victim willingly and voluntarily participated in the sexual activity, that can serve as a complete defense to charges like rape or sexual assault.
The age of consent in Georgia is 16, the youngest age at which a person can give his or her consent to sexual activities. People under 16 cannot give sexual consent and, if they did, it would still be considered rape.
Connect With Our Savannah Legal Team for Defense Strategies
When it comes to providing you with a strong defense, you need to know that we are ready to come to your aid. Your future freedom, reputation, and your ability to hold a professional license are all at stake.
Although you are innocent until proven guilty, you could suffer some very serious consequences even before your case makes it to trial. If you are facing charges for a sex offense, it is imperative that you engage the services of a top defender with a record of success in trials.
Consult with our Savannah sex crime lawyers immediately if you are accused of any sex crime. Call Schneider Lerch, LLC at (912) 417-5008 today or contact us online to schedule your free, initial case review.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does a Sex Crime Charge Affect My Future?
A charge of this nature can have profound and enduring effects on your life. The mere accusation can lead to social ostracization, difficulties in finding employment, and trouble securing housing. On a legal front, if convicted, you could face severe penalties including imprisonment, hefty fines, and mandatory registration on the sex offender registry. This registry entry can complicate virtually every aspect of life, from professional opportunities to personal relationships. Securing a knowledgeable legal team swiftly is vital to navigating these challenges and mitigating the possible repercussions.
What Are My Rights if I'm Accused of a Sex Crime?
Your rights during this time are crucial to protecting your freedoms and ensuring a just legal process. You have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel during any interrogations. You are entitled to a fair and public trial, legal representation, and the opportunity to challenge both evidence and testimonies presented against you. At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we diligently advocate for our clients' rights, making sure that all legal proceedings are conducted fairly and according to the mandates of Georgia's judicial system.
Can I Reduce the Impact of Being on the Sex Offender Registry?
Yes, there are ways to potentially reduce the impact. It involves structured legal action and may include pursuing expungement or modifying registration requirements under certain circumstances. The process is highly complex and contingent upon the specifics of your case, your behavior post-conviction, and recent changes in state laws. Engaging with our knowledgeable sex crime lawyers in Savannah allows you to explore your options comprehensively and take informed steps towards alleviating future burdens connected with the registry.
How Can I Prepare for a Trial?
Preparation for a trial is extensive and requires a coordinated strategy between you and your attorneys. Gathering all pertinent information about the charges, reconstructing timelines, and preparing witness testimony is vital. Our attorneys work closely with clients to clarify allegations, break down legal complexities, and develop a coherent story that accurately reflects the truth of their cases. By practicing mock trials and detailing potential cross-examination questions, we prepare clients thoroughly, building their confidence and readiness for court appearances.
What Should I Do Immediately After Being Accused?
Seek legal counsel immediately. It's crucial not to speak to law enforcement or engage in discussions without your lawyer present, as this can heavily impact the outcomes. Preserve any evidence or documentation that could be relevant to your defense, and start documenting details of your interactions and communications regarding the allegations. Our sex crimes attorney advises that early intervention in securing legal representation significantly increases your chances of a favorable resolution, allowing us to craft a tailored defense strategy from the outset.
At Schneider Lerch, LLC, you have an entire legal team on your side when dealing with serious criminal matters. We are ready to help you obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
