WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SEXUAL ASSAULT
Sex crimes come in many different forms and is always unexpected. But one thing is for certain: it's never the victim's fault. This topic of discussion has been a sensitive subject for decades, often due to differences in opinion and unconscious biases. However, the way in which a sex offense is classified, what falls in the category of sex crime charges, and what exactly is considered a "sexual assault" is determined by law -- not by feeling. By definition, a sexual assault is any form of sexual contact, or behavior, that occurs without explicit consent of the victim.
Sexual assaults in Ohio were reported at a rate of 86.9 per 100,000 people in the year 2015. These findings have only increased due to individuals being willing to step forward and have their offender charged with a sex crime. And while there are many real victims who have felt empowered to tell their story and hold others responsible for their actions, there are also instances where innocent people may be charged with a crime they did not commit.
If you have been charged with a sex crime, contacting a sex crime attorney should be your first step. They will be well versed with the process of the court and will be your voice when you are unsure of what to say. They will also mount a defense that will give you the best chance of a positive outcome if your case should go to court.
As any sex crime attorney would explain, sexual assault generally falls into a few different categories. These are penetration crimes and contact, or exposure, of any intimate body parts; which includes genitalia, breast(s), buttocks, and other intimate body parts.
Rape is one of the worst violations to converse about and one of the most violent sex crimes to be committed. Unfortunately, this happens even more than what's reported, due to the shame and stigma surrounding this issue. Other types of assaults that could possibly happen are forcible sodomy, forcible object penetration, unwanted sexual touching, sexual contact with minors, incest, and any unwanted or coerced sexual contact. All of these are horrific acts of violence that may be masked with words of love, comfort, endearment, and concern. For the victim, they lead to devastation, uncertainty, sadness, depression, and a sense of hopelessness with a hollow pit left behind. These types of violations are never easy to converse about -- but victims who do find their strength may find peace by holding the criminal responsible in a court of law.
Whether you feel you're innocent of the crime you've been accused of or you know there's been a complete misunderstanding between you and a former partner, you shouldn't go through this process alone. Victims of sexual assault and other sex crimes will undoubtedly go through a highly emotional process, but there are many instances where the individuals accused of perpetrating these crimes will also endure immense hardships. In order to protect your reputation, your family, and your future, it's essential to consult with a sex crime attorney if you are facing these allegations. For more information, please contact our offices today.