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Fighting Sex Offense Allegations in Ohio

A sex crime conviction carries incredibly painful penalties, including incarceration and/or fines. Additionally, if you are found guilty, you may be required to register as a sex offender, which can profoundly impact your life. Even a sex crime accusation alone has the potential to hurt you. You could face a ruined reputation, job loss, eviction from your home, or strained relationships with family and friends.

Patituce & Associates, LLC, our Cleveland sex crimes attorneys know how important it is to seek an optimal result in these types of cases. That is why we will leverage our knowledge, skills, and experience to defend you. We are proud to provide quality legal services in Cleveland and throughout Ohio to those in need of a criminal defense attorney who will see your case through to the very end.

Our Cleveland sex crime lawyers are ready to help. Schedule a confidential consultation by calling us or contacting us online today.

Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney From Patituce & Associates, LLC

In Ohio, sex crimes are prosecuted with rigorous scrutiny and under stringent guidelines set forth by the Ohio Revised Code. Sex crime cases are handled with special attention due to the highly sensitive nature of these allegations.

Criminal defense lawyers for sex crimes are instrumental in many sex crime cases, employing aggressive defense strategies to scrutinize the evidence, including potential false accusations. Understanding the complex dynamics of sexual abuse, including the mental or physical condition of the alleged victim, is critical in building a robust defense. Many sex offenders are charged with a sex crime without proper substantiation of criminal allegations, leading to a dire need for experienced legal representation.

Our team of Cleveland sex crime defense lawyers is well-versed in various aspects of the Ohio Revised Code, including specific areas like pandering obscenity involving minors, sexually-oriented protection orders, and other criminal offenses. Whether facing criminal appeals or issues related to child custody following a conviction, our sex crimes lawyers are equipped to provide unparalleled criminal defense.

We acknowledge that every case is unique and requires a tailored approach, involving cooperation with mental health professionals if needed. Our commitment to defending those charged with a sex crime in Cleveland and throughout Ohio reflects our extensive experience and dedication to justice. If you or a loved one has been accused, securing a seasoned sex crime defense lawyer from our team should be your priority. We stand ready to provide the legal representation you need, with a deep understanding of the challenges associated with alleged victims and the potential consequences under both state and federal law.

Common Types of Ohio Sex Crimes

Chapter 2907 of the Ohio Revised Code contains various statutes concerning prohibited sexual conduct.

Sex crimes in OH that our Cleveland sex crime lawyers defend include:

  • 2907.02 – Rape
  • 2907.03 – Sexual battery
  • 2907.04 – Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor
  • 2907.05 – Gross sexual imposition
  • 2907.06 – Sexual imposition
  • 2907.07 – Importuning
  • 2907.08 – Voyeurism
  • 2907.09 – Public indecency
  • 2907.19 – Commercial sexual exploitation of a minor
  • 2907.21 – Compelling prostitution
  • 2907.22 – Promoting prostitution
  • 2907.23 – Enticement or solicitation to patronize a prostitute; procurement of a prostitute for another
  • 2907.28 – Payment for medical examination and test of any victim or accused
  • 2907.31 – Disseminating matter harmful to juveniles
  • 2907.311 – Displaying matter harmful to juveniles
  • 2907.32 – Pandering obscenity
  • 2907.321 – Pandering obscenity to a minor (child pornography)
  • 2907.322 – Pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor
  • 2907.323 – Illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance
  • 2907.33 – Deception to obtain matter harmful to juveniles
  • 2907.34 – Compelling acceptance of objectionable materials
  • 2907.38 – Permitting unlawful operation of viewing booths depicting sexual conduct
  • 2907.39 – Permitting juveniles on premises of adult entertainment establishment; use of false information to gain entry
  • 2907.40 – Illegally operating a sexually oriented business

As former prosecutors, our lawyers are adept and handling a wide variety of sex crime cases, from child pornography offenses to internet sex crimes. We understand how law enforcement agencies handle these criminal charges, including their strategies for collecting physical and forensic evidence, and how to counter these criminal allegations with a strong legal defense.

At Patituce & Associates, LLC, we know that being accused of any sex-related crimes can be overwhelming. That is why our sex crimes lawyers in Cleveland are here to skillfully guide you through your case. Our criminal defense attorneys are prepared to be your champions and aggressive defenders.

Ohio Sex Crimes Penalties

In Ohio, sex offenses can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the nature of the offense. A conviction may result in a jail or prison sentence and fines.

The followings are the level and degrees of charges and potential penalties for sex crimes:

Fourth-degree misdemeanor:

  • Up to 30 days in jail and/or
  • Up to $250 in fines
  • Fourth-degree misdemeanor sex crimes include, but are not limited to:
    • Public indecency involving exposure of private parts

Third-degree misdemeanor:

Second-degree misdemeanor:

  • Up to 90 days in jail and/or
  • Up to $750 in fines
  • Second-degree misdemeanor sex crimes include, but are not limited to:
    • Voyeurism involving the recording of a nude person
    • Public indecency involving masturbation or sexual conduct in front of a minor

First-degree misdemeanor:

  • Up to 180 days in jail and/or
  • Up to $1,000 in fines
  • First-degree misdemeanor sex crimes include, but are not limited to:
    • Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor (when the alleged offender is less than four years older than the victim)
    • Voyeurism involves recording under or through clothing
    • Public indecency involving exposure of private parts to coerce a child to engage in sexual conduct

Fifth-degree felony:

  • Up to 12 months in prison and/or
  • Up to $2,500 in fines
  • Fifth-degree felony sex crimes include, but are not limited to:
    • Voyeurism involving a minor

Fourth-degree felony:

  • Up to 18 months in prison and/or
  • Up to $5,000 in fines
  • Fourth-degree felony sex crimes include, but are not limited to:
    • Unlawful sexual conduct or sexual contact with a minor
    • Gross sexual imposition
    • Promoting prostitution

Third-degree felony:

  • Up to 36 months in prison and/or
  • Up to $10,000 in fines
  • Third-degree felony sex crimes include, but are not limited to:
    • Sexual battery
    • Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor (when the alleged offender is more than 10 years older than the victim)
    • Importuning
    • Commercial exploitation of a minor
    • Compelling prostitution

Second-degree felony:

  • Up to 12 years in prison and/or
  • Up to $15,000 in fines
  • Second-degree felony sex crimes include, but are not limited to:
    • Sexual battery against a person under 13 years of age
    • Compelling prostitution of a minor between 16 and 17 years of age

First-degree felony:

  • Up to 16.5 years in prison and/or
  • Up to $20,000 in fines
  • First-degree felony sex crimes include, but are not limited to:
    • Rape
    • Compelling prostitution of a minor under 16 years of age

Working with a knowledgeable Cleveland sex crime Lawyer can help you defend yourself against a charge and seek a favorable outcome in your case.

Charges for Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor in Ohio

Ohio law prohibits any person 18 years of age or older from engaging in sexual conduct with a minor between 13 and 15 years of age. It is a defense that the individuals were married at the time of the offense.

Sexual conduct is defined as:

  • Vaginal or anal intercourse
  • Oral sex
  • Insertion of any body part or instrument into the vagina or anus of another

Depending on the alleged offender’s and victim’s ages, unlawful sexual conduct with a minor can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The prosecution of these types of sex-related offenses often involves collecting and analyzing physical evidence and forensic evidence, which may include examination of the vaginal or anal opening, clothing, and other sexually oriented matter.

As ex-prosecutors, we are acutely aware of the life-altering ramifications of a conviction for having sex with a minor. With over 200 jury trials and a success rate of 95%, we know how to develop defenses to put your case in the best possible position. Our sex crimes attorneys in Cleveland employ a combined approach, which can help as we seek to minimize your life-long reporting requirements and the short-term consequences resulting from a sex crime case.

Sex Offender Registry in Cleveland, Ohio

At the beginning of your case, your attention may, understandably, be focused on the nature of the allegations and the potential term of incarceration you are facing. However, it is also important to recognize that a conviction, even for a misdemeanor, can have long-term consequences, as you may be required to participate in mandatory sex offender registration in Ohio. This reporting requirement means that registered sex offenders must provide the local sheriff with their personal identifying information for a certain length of time.

In Ohio, sex offender reporting requirements are determined by the category a convicted person is placed into.

Referred to as tiers, the categories govern the frequency and duration of your registration requirement:

  • Tier I: Requires registration with local law enforcement for 15 years once a year. After 10 years, the offender can petition to be removed.
  • Tier II: Requires registration with local law enforcement every 180 days for 25 years.
  • Tier III: The most severe, requiring the offender to report to local law enforcement every 90 days for life.

Because an innocent mistake can lead to long-term implications, it’s crucial that you consult with a sex crimes attorney in Cleveland who knows how to navigate the criminal justice system and create a robust defense against sexual crimes charges.

The Importance of Working with an Experienced and Honest Sex Crime Lawyer

Recently, we had a conversation with a mother and daughter that reminded us of the importance of attorneys providing honest and straightforward communication with potential clients. The daughter called us shocked, scared, and overwhelmed because her father had just been arrested in a suburb of Cleveland by (what seemed like) half of the county’s police force.

The first attorney the mother and daughter spoke to promised everything, but was sparse on facts. He said that he could get an acquittal in one of the most complex cases to defend: a sex crime against a child. Depending on the situation, these cases are winnable and defensible, but an attorney must have experience handling them. When they pressed for his résumé or experience, the mother and daughter quickly found that he was just a salesman with a few gimmicks.

Avoid at all costs attorneys that make promises outside of how hard they will work for you. Having a good sales pitch is always nice, but it is more important to be honest with clients.

We have seen firsthand the impact an experienced criminal defense lawyer can have on a case’s outcome. Hiring an experienced Cleveland sex crime defense lawyer can mean the difference between incarceration and freedom.

Our results testify to the hardworking ethos of our law firm. In one notable case, a Client was accused of rape and sexual misconduct. Through our efforts, the client avoided being charged. The client was able to put the matter behind him and faced no charges. For more case results and related sex crime news, visit our blog.

We Believe in Three Principles

  1. Some of the people who are charged with these crimes are innocent and deserving of our time, energy, and help.
  2. Some of these people are guilty of committing an offense, but are not guilty of what they are charged with.
  3. Some people are guilty of the crime they are accused of but deserve skilled defense to fight the prosecutor (government) who seeks decades of prison time.

If you would like to see how our firm can help, contact our Cleveland sex crimes lawyers today. We can be reached at (440) 471-7784.

Do Not Speak to Police. Speak to Us First About Any Sexual Offense Charge.

Many individuals believe that if they speak to the police and explain their side of the story, they can avoid being charged with a sex crime. This is typically not the case. In our experience defending people accused of sex crime charges, we have found that most people convict themselves before they are even charged. At times, it may be in your best interest to speak to the police; however, consult a Cleveland sex crime attorney before making a formal statement. Remember, anything you say can and will be used against you.

Speaking with an attorney will help you understand what you are facing as far as criminal or civil sanctions. At Patituce & Associates, LLC, our Cleveland sex crimes lawyers ensure that our clients understand their charges, potential penalties, and possible defenses.

Criminal Defense for Sex Crimes in the Cleveland Area

We find that one of the more daunting tasks for clients charged with a sex crime is finding an attorney who:

  • Is experienced enough to handle the case; and
  • Makes the client comfortable with the representation.

If you have been charged with a sex crime in Ohio, hire an experienced team of Cleveland sex crimes lawyers who focus heavily on those types of cases. It is also important that you feel comfortable working with the firm you retain.

If you are serious about defending yourself from sex-related charges in Cleveland, call our team today. The call is strictly confidential. We promise that we will treat you with the respect and dignity that you deserve. To set up a free consultation with our Cleveland sex crimes attorneys, contact us at (440) 471-7784.