There are various types of sex crimes, some of the most common crimes include coercion and illegal sexual conduct against an individual. All states have certain laws that prohibit these crimes, but they often have statutes of limitations on lawsuits against alleged offenders. Sex crimes can be divided into certain categories, this makes it easier to understand how laws are applied in different scenarios.
Solicitation and Prostitution
Solicitation involves requesting or demanding another person to engage in criminal conduct, while planning to contribute to the crime. When linked to prostitution, someone is asked to have sex for money. Though laws vary by state, some require proof that the second person received the request. A subsequent crime does not need to be committed, and a defendant may be guilty even though the request was not accepted. Defenses for these charges include claiming to not have committed the act or not having criminal intent.
Prostitution is illegal in every state except in parts of Nevada. Depending on the laws of the state, the act in question may be punished or criminalized; federal laws do not apply unless the government is seeking to prosecute trafficking or protect minors.
Indecent Exposure
It is against the law to expose one’s genitals in public. States laws generally focus on whether the perpetrator was trying to offend another person or create their own sexual arousal and gratification. First offenses often result in misdemeanor penalties, but second ones can incur felony charges and the need to register as a sex offender.
Crimes Against Children
There are strict penalties for crimes such as abduction, exploitation, molestation, and pornography that involves children. Some states like California make the distribution of images of children engaged in sexual conduct a criminal offense.
Sexual Assault
State laws distinguish rape and other types of illegal sexual contact. Rape is generally classified as sodomy or sexual penetration of a body part without the other person’s consent. Penetration typically includes the offender’s body part but can include objects. If the conduct does not include actual penetration, but sexual actions were committed against a nonconsenting individual, it may be called criminal sexual contact or sexual battery.
If the victim is under the age of 16, an act of rape may be called statutory rape since laws specify that children cannot give consent. In some states, it is only considered a criminal act when defendants are older than the victims by a certain amount of years.
The Consent Factor
The most important factor in sex crime cases is consent. If the act is not carried out with the other person’s permission or if the other person was incapable of giving permission, then sexual conduct turns criminal. Being a minor, mentally ill, physically helpless, or being incapacitated are some reasons for an individual not being able to give consent. Possible defenses against charges include claiming that it was consensual, that another person committed the offense, or claiming an insanity plea.
Cherry Hill Sex Crimes Lawyers at Agre & St. John Protect Their Clients’ Rights and Defend the Falsely Accused
If you are facing sex crime charges and have been falsely accused, it is essential to hire an experienced lawyer. Our expert Cherry Hill sex crimes lawyers at Agre & St. John will fight to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process. Contact us online or call us at 856-428-7797 for a private consultation. Located in Haddonfield, New Jersey, we also serve clients in Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, Salem County, and throughout South Jersey.
