Numerous states have undertaken a revision of their rape and sexual assault laws, creating a broad set of sexually related crimes. These crimes are frequently referred to collectively as sexual assault, criminal sexual conduct or sexual abuse. The chief characteristic of these laws is that they prohibit doing any kind of sexual act with an additional person against that person’s will. Usually, it isn’t necessary to show physical resistance on the part of the victim, only that the victim did not consent to the act. When you have been accused of sexual assault, seek the guidance of the Recommended Best Houston Sexual Assault Lawyer at the Charles Johnson Law Firm in Houston, TX.
The contemporary trend is to make the laws against sexual assault gender neutral so that they apply to acts by and against both men and women. Probably the most severe types of sexual assault are those committed against kids or those that involve the use of violence.
Is Sexual Assault exactly the same as Rape?
The traditional definition of rape demands an act of sexual intercourse or sexual penetration by force or against the victim’s will. Sexual assault includes contact like sexual touching. These definitions, however, vary by jurisdiction.
The majority of sexual assault allegations are made by someone who knows the accused. When a sexual act is done with a minor who seemingly consented, criminal charges might arise because minors are not regarded as capable of giving consent.
The seriousness of a sexual assault charge, as well as the penalty that is imposed, may depend upon the amount and kind of force used by the defendant and also the injuries suffered by the victim. The victim’s physical resistance isn’t a main factor in deciding the severity of the charge. Sexual assault charges are frequently felony charges, even though some types of sexual assaults might be misdemeanors.
The penalties for sexual assault are severe and consist of prison or jail, monetary fines, psychiatric evaluation and treatment, and restitution payments to the victim. A person convicted of sexual assault may be forced to register as a sex offender for the rest of his or her life and have his or her name appear on the public registry of sex offenders.
Prosecution and Defense of Sexual Assault Cases
Generally, the only witnesses to an alleged sexual assault are the victim and also the individual accused. Many cases thus turn out to be “he said/she said” kinds of cases, in which one particular person’s word is pitted against another’s. False allegations have been made by each adults and kids. An adequate defense against a sexual assault charge demands sufficient info and rigorous advocacy. Houston Sexual Assault Lawyer Charles Johnson will go to war to defend your rights.
Hire the Recommended Houston Sexual Assault Attorney!
Sexual assault includes numerous types of sexual acts carried out with out the consent of the victim. These cases often don’t involve eyewitnesses and, as a result, are complex. Being convicted of sexual assault can result in lengthy prison time and social isolation once you are released. If you’re facing sexual assault charges, speak with the skilled and aggressive Houston Criminal Defense Attorney Charles Johnson. He is available around the clock to answer any questions you may have regarding your case.