Being accused of a sex crime can be crippling to your personal and professional life. If you are facing criminal charges, you need an experienced sex crimes defense lawyer that can help you understand your rights and work to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome in your case.
At the JP Law Office, we provide dedicated representation for individuals who have been accused of or are facing sex crime charges in Bloomington, Illinois. Attorney Jennifer Patton has over 30 years of experience and is unafraid to take your case to trial. If you were arrested on a sex offense, contact our office to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
Types of Sex Crimes We Handle
Any criminal charges can damage a person’s reputation, but accusations of a sex crime can ruin a person’s life. Sex crimes are heavily prosecuted in Illinois and come with serious penalties upon conviction.
At the JP Law Office, we provide legal representation for people accused of:
- Aggravated criminal sexual abuse
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Criminal sexual abuse
- Indecent solicitation of a child
- Sexual assault
- Sexual assault of a child
- Sexual exploitation of a child
- Solicitation of an adult
- Sodomy
Our firm handles both misdemeanors and felonies. Attorney Jennifer Patton is a former prosecutor and public defender, well-versed in taking even the most challenging cases. She is a knowledgeable, hands-on advocate that will fight to protect your rights.
Penalties for Sex Offenses
The penalties for sex offenses in Illinois depend on a number of factors, including the crime, the victim, and the criminal history of the alleged offender. For instance, a person convicted of criminal sexual assault could face penalties for a Class 1 felony. A Class 1 felony conviction is punishable by a prison sentence of 4 to 15 years and fines of $75 to $25,000.
In addition to high fines and the potential for jail or prison time, a person convicted of certain sex crimes could be required to register as a sex offender. Sex offense registration could have a long-lasting impact. It may affect where you are able to live, work, or volunteer.
Sex Crime Defenses
There are several defenses that may apply to your case if you are accused of a sex crime in Illinois. Many of the defenses relate to a violation of a person’s constitutional rights. In order to determine what defenses may arise in your case, you need to speak with a sex crimes defense lawyer immediately.
Possible defenses in Illinois sex crime cases:
- False accusation
- False identification
- Consent
- Unreasonable search and seizure
- Entrapment
- Police misconduct
- Lack of evidence
Sex crime cases should be handled by a lawyer with extensive experience. A conviction for even a low-level offense could shatter your life.
What to Do If You Are Arrested for a Sex Crime in Bloomington
If you are arrested for a sex crime in Bloomington, you need to speak to an attorney. It is essential to remember that an arrest for a sex offense is not the same thing as a conviction, but it should be taken seriously.
If you are taken into custody, you should not give a statement. Instead, exercise your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Too often, a person who is trying to prove their innocence ends up incriminating themselves even if they did not commit the crime. Remaining silent can help to ensure that your attorney can build a strong defense for your case.
Why You Need to Hire a Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer
Without the help of a skilled sex crimes lawyer, you could end up receiving the maximum sentence allowed by law. A sex crimes defense lawyer can help to prove your innocence or to negotiate for a reduction or dismissal of the charges. They can also make sure that your rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings.
Attorney Jennifer Patton and the legal team at the JP Law Office will walk you through the process. They will provide you with the resources you need to make informed decisions on your case, such as whether to accept a plea deal or to set your matter for trial in order to secure the most favorable disposition. It is always strongly recommended that you retain a lawyer for any criminal charges, but specifically, those that involve the severe penalties associated with a felony sex crime conviction.
Contact Our Office for a Free Consultation
Are you being investigated for committing a sex offense in Bloomington? Contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Get the experienced, compassionate representation you need and deserve.
At the JP Law Office, we know that this can be a challenging time for you and your family. Even accusations of a sex offense can be life-altering, but we are here to help. Our lawyers will help you get your life back on track.
