Determined Augusta Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Pursues Fair Treatment for Clients
Powerful Georgia defense against criminal sex charges
Mere accusations of a sex crime can damage your reputation. A conviction can send you to prison. At the Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm, our experienced Augusta sex crime defense attorneys have witnessed the impacts these charges have on careers, relationships and overall lives. If you are accused of a sexual offense, our Georgia lawyers will advocate strongly for your fair treatment in the justice system and seek the best possible outcome.
Have you been accused of a sex crime?
When you have been accused of a sex crime, you should retain an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights before speaking with police. Do not contact the person accusing you, say derogatory things about them on social media, or speak with anyone else about the accusation. Rather than asserting your innocence to authorities, inform your attorney about any evidence that might strengthen your defense. Evidence might include an alibi witness, video footage or texts or voice messages between you and your accuser. Our firm will construct a sound defense strategy based on the particular circumstances in your case.
Types of sex crimes cases we handle
We defend Georgians accused of the following types of sex crimes:
- Rape and statutory rape
- Molestation
- Internet sex crimes
- Sexual assault and sexual battery
- Indecent exposure
- Solicitation of a minor through the internet
- Child pornography
- Child molestation and aggravated child molestation
- Sodomy and aggravated sodomy
- Domestic violence involving sexual abuse
Additionally, we can help you if you are arrested for failing to comply with the sex offender registry. We also assist qualifying individuals who seek removal from the registry. Our attorneys are highly knowledgeable in all areas of criminal law related to sex crimes. We have the experience to help you no matter what charge you are facing or who is making the accusation against you.
Penalties for sex crimes in Georgia
The penalty for sex crimes in Georgia depends on the specific offense. Examples of sentences for common charges are as follows:
- Rape, which is a felony, carries a penalty of 25 years to life in prison.
- Sexual battery, which is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature, carries a sentence of up to a year in jail.
- Child molestation is a felony with a penalty of up to 20 years in prison.
Sentences may be increased for multiple offenders. People convicted of sex crimes may also have to pay large fines and undergo mandatory counseling. Guilt in a felony sex crime case means the defendant is included within the state’s sex crime registry, sometimes for life.
Defense against sex crime charges
Possible defenses for people accused of sex crimes include:
- Mistaken identity
- Consent of an adult accuser
- Lack of intent
- Lack of evidence
- Entrapment by police
- Impossibility
One of our experienced attorneys will develop a solid defense that might result in the sex crime charges against you being dismissed or reduced. We will launch a thorough investigation into the allegations and vigorously defend you against the charges.
Our process for defending against sex crime charges in Augusta
There are typically multiple steps in the legal process when defending against a sex crime. Our firm might speak with eyewitnesses, consult with experts on scientific evidence, analyze medical reports and represent you at trial. In some cases, a plea bargain in which you plead guilty to a lesser crime in exchange for a lesser charge and reduced sentence might be the best path forward.
Contact an Augusta sex crimes lawyer who will fight for your rights
Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm in Augusta represents Georgia clients who have been accused of sex crimes in Richmond, Burke and Columbia counties. Call us at 706-496-1616 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.
