Finding an Experienced Sexual Assault Lawyer to Defend You Against Sexual Assault Charges Is Crucial to Protecting Your Future.
If you are facing sexual assault charges it is crucial to find yourself a sexual assault lawyer that can properly defend you. It can feel overwhelming, even frustrating to face such criminal charges. Even if it seems obvious to you that you are innocent, misrepresentation and mishandling of these criminal charges can have far-reaching negative impacts on your life.
If you or a loved one is facing any type of sexual assault charge, do not hesitate to contact the office of Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP in Worcester, MA to help you with your case. We have experienced sexual assault lawyers who can assist you. You can call us at (508) 570-3037 for a free consultation.
What Constitutes Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault does not directly define one specific crime. It is a term that is used to describe a range of criminal acts that are sexual in nature. This includes acts like non-consensual touching, groping, or “forcing the victim to touch the perpetrator in sexual ways.” Sexual assault can also include crimes like rape.
A sexual assault lawyer can help walk you through the specific laws that may apply to your charges, but to help orient you now, here is a breakdown of sexual assault laws in Massachusetts.
- Indecent Assault and Battery on Person Over 14 (MGL ch. 265, § 13H): Touching that is “fundamentally offensive to contemporary moral values” including the touching of the breasts, buttocks, and genitals.
The maximum penalty is 5 years state prison or 2 ½ years house of corrections.
- Indecent Assault and Battery on Child Under 14 (MGL ch. 265, §13B): A touching of the breasts, buttocks, or genitals of a child under the age of 14. A child under 14 cannot consent to an indecent touching.
The maximum penalty is 10 years state prison or 2 ½ years house of correction.
- Indecent Assault and Battery on Person with Intellectual Disability (MGL c. 265 §13F): Indecent touching of a person with intellectual disability.
The maximum penalty is 10 years state prison, the minimum penalty is 5 years.
- Indecent Assault and Battery on Elder or Disabled Person (MGL ch. 265, § 13H): Indecent touching of a person with permanent or long-term physical or mental impairment.
The maximum penalty is 10 years state prison or 2 ½ years house of correction.
It is very important to note that these are just certain elements of sexual assault and that it is possible your charges are not listed above. If you or someone you love is facing sexual assault charges, it’s important to consult a sexual assault lawyer so that your case can be properly assessed and you can be helped.
How Can a Sexual Assault Attorney Help You?
If you are convicted of a sex crime, you will be registered on the Sex Offender Registry. You may also face jail time or extensive fines. A sexual assault lawyer can help you understand what you are facing regarding your charges, and assess how to best represent your case in court.
If you have been charged with sexual assault, do not wait to get help. Contact us today for a free consultation: }.
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