One of the most complex types of criminal charges that you might have to deal with is a sex crime. Sex crimes attract a very heavy penalty. Suppose you do not formulate the right defense and choose a competent lawyer. In that case, you could be looking at many years in prison and extensive damage to your reputation and loss of access to opportunities. It is important to understand the most common sex crimes and how you can defend yourself against the charges. Here are the three basic things you should know.

Dealing With Crimes That Involve Lack of Consent

One of the most complex sexual cases to deal with are crimes connected to lack of consent. Sometimes, the case might be easy to prosecute, such as sexual assault, which occurs when one person forces themselves on another without their consent. Arguing such a case as the defendant might be complicated, especially when the other person has incriminating evidence such as DNA or other forensic proof. However, a sex crimes lawyer will help you come up with a defense that will give you the best deal.

The other crimes that involve lack of consent include statutory rape, where you have a sexual relationship with a minor. The law stipulates that minors do not understand consent, and therefore, they cannot give in. 

Dealing With Crimes Involving Children

The law protects children from any acts of sexual violence. Any form of sexual touching to a child that has not reached legal age can earn you a hefty punishment, which often includes serving time behind bars. However, sometimes reporting and prosecution can be challenging because children react to trauma differently. If you have been falsely accused of perpetrating a sexual crime against a minor, you should get a lawyer immediately. The lawyer will help you formulate a defense to extricate yourself from the charges.

Sex Crimes Committed in Public Spaces

The law also focuses on sexual acts committed in public spaces in the interest of protecting the public. You can be arrested and charged with public indecency if you expose yourself to the public when engaging in a sexual act. Sexual misconduct charges may also be brought against you if your acts offend the people around you.

The best way to deal with sexual crime charges is hiring a criminal defense attorney as soon as you are charged. The lawyer will help you formulate the best defense for your circumstances. Contact a sex crimes lawyer for more information.