Sexual assault involves the unwanted touching of another person’s private parts, non-consensual penetrative sex, or other types of sexual harassment. Lack of consent, as well as an element of force, are necessary for a crime to be considered sexual assault.
False or exaggerated allegations of such serious sex offenses can turn your life upside down. Sexual assault convictions can lead to many years in prison and may require lifetime sex offender registration. If you face charges of this nature, call an experienced North Charleston sexual assault lawyer to defend your case and protect your rights.
What is the Definition of Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is not one specific offense under South Carolina law. Instead, it is a category of sex offenses that involve sexual and physical contact with a non-consenting individual. Unlike certain sex crimes, such as prostitution, that could occur with consent, a sexual assault requires that the other party did not consent or was unable to consent.
These offenses also involve some level of force. This does not require physical assault or injury, and even an unwanted touching that is sexual in nature could qualify. Due to the broad nature of this definition, a variety of offenses fall into the category of sexual assault.
Types of Sexual Assault
A sexual assault can involve many different kinds of conduct, but some examples of offenses that fit this category include:
- Rape
- Statutory rape
- Child molestation
- Sexual battery
- Spousal sexual battery
- Criminal sexual conduct
With any type of sexual assault charge, it is necessary for the accused person to work with a dedicated attorney in deciding the best course of action moving forward. Every defendant deserves to have their side of the story presented to the local jury, and a dedicated sexual assault defense attorney in North Charleston can help ensure their rights are protected.
Penalties for Sexual Assault in North Charleston
State law sets penalties based on the degree of criminal sexual conduct that occurred.
- First Degree: If convicted, a defendant faces up to thirty years in prison.
- Second Degree: If convicted, a defendant faces up to twenty years in prison.
- Third Degree: If convicted, a defendant faces up to ten years in prison.
“Criminal sexual conduct” is a legal term that encompasses various sex crimes such as rape, sexual battery, and more. The level of offense a particular crime falls into depends on a number of different legal factors. An experienced defense attorney in the area could help determine the risks that a defendant may face for their specific sexual assault charges.
Does Sexual Assault Require Sex Offender Registration?
Sexual assault convictions typically require sex offender registration. This means that a criminal defendant must register with law enforcement and list certain personal information on a nationwide database, such as their address, place of employment, details of conviction, and more. The stain of sex offender registration can last a lifetime and reach beyond just North Charleston, so it is critical to retain an aggressive legal advocate to defend against any allegations and mitigate the future impact these charges could have.
Schedule Your Consultation with a Sexual Assault Defense Attorney
Every sexual assault case is serious. The potential for years in prison and sex offender registration must not be taken lightly. Your case deserves the attention of hardworking North Charleston sexual assault lawyer who could help formulate your best possible defense. Contact the firm today to schedule a consultation.
