If you have been charged with sexual assault in Northampton County, PA, you need to take immediate action to defend your case and protect your rights. A conviction for sexual assault can result in high fines, sex offender registration, and up to a decade in prison. These are very serious penalties that could affect the rest of your life if left undefended.
To defend your constitutional rights, an experienced Northampton County Sexual Assault attorney can develop a unique defense to your case and make sure the court hears your side of the story. Your rights are important, and they deserve the best protection possible.
Sexual Assault Charge in Northampton County, PA
Sexual assault is codified in 18 Pa. Cons. Stat § 3124.1 and this offense occurs when a person has sexual intercourse or deviate sexual intercourse with another individual without that person's consent. Sexual intercourse is a term defined by 18 Pa. Cons. Stat § 3101, and includes ordinary sex as well as both oral sex and anal sex. Penetration, even slightly, is required but emission is not required for this charge to apply.
An alleged victim does not have to prove that he or she resisted the alleged perpetrator, but a defendant is allowed to put on evidence that the alleged victim consented to the sexual intercourse. Consent is the best possible defense to a charge of sexual assault. If the other person consented to the sexual intercourse (and never revoked that consent), no crime was committed.
Other sex crimes that are closely related to sexual assault include:
Penalties for Sexual Assault in Northampton County
If you are convicted of sexual assault in Pennsylvania, you are convicted of a second-degree felony. This very serious felony carries the following possible penalties:
- a maximum 10-year prison sentence
- a maximum potential fine of up to $25,000
- loss of certain civil rights (i.e. voting rights, firearm ownership rights, right to be on a jury)
- sex offender registration
Why You Need a Defense Lawyer
The potential penalties you face from a conviction are not to be taken lightly. Your freedom could be stripped away from you, and you could face serious social stigma from a sex offender registration. To protect your rights, and to make sure your side is heard, you need an experienced Northampton County Sexual Assault lawyer to represent you.
A skilled lawyer can develop a unique defense to your individual situation and argue your case in court. You will receive the best possible legal advice and move forward with confidence.
Consult an Experienced Northampton County Sexual Assault Attorney
Our Criminal Law Team at the LLF Law Firm stand ready to hear your side of the story and defend your case. Never believe a prosecutor that says there is no hope, and do not let your freedom be taken from you without a fight.
An experienced Northampton County Sexual Assault Attorney can protect your constitutional rights. Call (888) 535-3686 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation of your case.
