Sex Crime Attorney in Savanah GA
Sometimes the true victim of a “sex crime” is the defendant. The Savannah-based The Atlantic Law Firm has helped far too many men facing criminal charges for sex offenses restore their good names or avoid prosecution altogether.
Most of our Savannah clients facing criminal charges for a sex offense have never been accused of a crime in their lives before they are blindsided by accusations of an alleged sex offense.
The motivation seems to vary from one accuser to the next. But one thing is always true – the defendant’s life is forever changed.
His relationships with his family, friends, co-workers, and colleagues are often stressed and sometimes ruined. These same men usually lose their jobs simply because they have been accused.
The emotional and financial consequences of the charges alone are incalculable.
If you have been charged with rape, you need a Savannah, GA, sex crimes attorney – VA who will genuinely listen to you and fight for you.
You also need someone who understands the intricacies of Georgia’s Rape Shield Statute. The Rape Shield Statute, O.C.G.A. 24-4-412, prohibits a great deal of evidence from being introduced at trial in order to “shield” the “victim” from improper character assassination.
Although the statute’s stated purpose may be admirable, it can also prevent a defendant from asserting a valid defense in some instances unless a knowledgeable sex offense lawyer files the appropriate pre-trial motions with the Court.
A person convicted of rape can be punished by death, by imprisonment for life without parole, by imprisonment for life with the possibility of parole, or by a split sentence of prison time not less than 25 years and not exceeding life to be followed by probation for life.
In addition, the convicted person could be placed on the Sex Offender Registry for life. For these reasons, you need to have the best possible representation.
What Is Statutory Rape?
Statutory rape occurs when a person engages in sexual intercourse with a person under 16 years old. It does not require any force to be used. It is a strict liability crime, meaning the only thing that matters is the age of the accused and the alleged victim.
The age of consent in Georgia is 16. In other words, an individual has to be at least 16 to be legally able to give their consent to sexual activities. Individuals younger than 16 can’t give consent.
Statutory rape may be charged as a misdemeanor offense or a felony offense, depending upon the ages of the participants.
Misdemeanor Statutory Rape
Georgia law, O.C.G.A. 16-6-3 (c), states if the victim is at least 14 years old but less than 16 years old and the person convicted of statutory rape is 18 years of age or younger and is no more than four years older than the victim, such person shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Felony Statutory Rape
It is difficult for many to understand how a consensual sexual encounter could be a felony. But, in the eyes of the law, anyone under the age of sixteen cannot provide consent. This is a legal fiction. But it is still the law in the State of Georgia.
Even more frustrating, the minor will often appear to be an adult, behave as an adult, and even claim to be an adult. This is no legal defense.
A conviction for a sex crime carries significant penalties now and collateral consequences long after the sentence is served.
If you are facing rape, date rape, or other sex crime charges, don’t try to represent yourself and risk subjecting yourself to severe penalties and other serious consequences.
Sex Crimes Involving Payment
In some places, consenting adults are allowed to decide for themselves if purchasing an erotic service is in their best interest. The State of Georgia could tax and regulate this industry, making it safer for all. Instead, the State continues to outlaw the world’s oldest profession.
If you have been charged with pimping, pandering, solicitation, prostitution, keeping a place of prostitution, or masturbation for hire, call today for a free consultation. We understand the sensitive nature of your case and will treat you with the respect you deserve in this trying time.
FAQ
What types of cases does Stacey M. Goad handle as a Savannah sex crime attorney?
Stacey M. Goad handles a variety of sex crime cases, including but not limited to sexual battery, rape, child molestation, child pornography, and other serious criminal charges related to sexual offenses.
What are the potential consequences of a sex crime conviction?
A sex crime conviction can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and significant personal and professional repercussions. The exact penalties depend on the nature and severity of the crime.
Why should I hire a criminal defense lawyer if I am facing sex crime charges?
Hiring a criminal defense lawyer is crucial when facing sex crime charges. Stacey M. Goad has extensive experience navigating the criminal justice system and can help you understand your rights, build the best defense, and work towards a favorable outcome in your case.
What should I do if I am accused of sexual battery in Savannah?
If you are accused of sexual battery, it is essential to contact a Savannah sex crime attorney immediately.
Stacey M. Goad can provide the guidance and representation needed to defend against these serious charges and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
How can Stacey M. Goad help me if I am facing sex crime charges?
Stacey M. Goad can help by thoroughly reviewing the details of your case, examining police reports, gathering evidence, and formulating a strong defense strategy. Her goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for her clients.
What is involved in the criminal justice system for sex crime cases?
The criminal justice system for these cases involves several stages, including investigation, charges, arraignment, pre-trial motions, trial, and possibly appeals. Each stage requires careful attention and strategic planning to ensure the best defense.
Can I get a free consultation with Stacey M. Goad?
Yes, Stacey M. Goad offers a free consultation to discuss your case, understand your situation, and explain how she can assist you as your sex crime lawyer. This initial meeting is an opportunity to evaluate your legal options and begin building a defense.
Why choose Stacey M. Goad as your Savannah sex crime attorney?
Choosing Stacey M. Goad means having a dedicated and experienced criminal defense lawyer committed to protecting your rights and future. She understands the complexities of sex these cases and will work diligently to provide the best defense for her clients.
How A Sex Crime Attorney Can Help
The criminal justice system prosecutes sex offenders ruthlessly. These cases can be tough to defend – the defendant faces the possibility of years in state prison and a natural bias even if innocent.
In addition to potential lengthy prison time, a convicted individual must provide the required registration information for the Sex Offender Registry.
Individuals convicted of a sexually violent offense or dangerous sexual crime, as well as those convicted of such crimes against a minor victim, are among those required to register.
Once your name, age, distinguishing characteristics, and details about the crime you were convicted of appear on this registry, getting a job, housing, loans, or even insurance becomes extremely difficult.
Failure to register or providing false information can result in a felony conviction punishable by not less than one or more than 30 years of prison time.
If you are facing these charges, let Stacey M. Goad’s years of experience work for you. Contact The Atlantic Law Firm, LLC from the very beginning so we can start preparing the best defense.