Youngstown, OH Sex Crime Lawyer
Assertive Defense Representation in Mahoning County & Surrounding Areas
Sex offenses are among the most stigmatized criminal charges to exist. If you are charged or convicted of a sex crime, or even if you are only accused of one, your future could permanently suffer.
A mere accusation can lead to media attention, public scrutiny, professional repercussions, and irreparable damage to personal relationships. You will likely be under intense stress during legal proceedings, compounded by the gravity of the charges and the social bias against you.
You Will Need a Trusted Attorney for Your Defense in Youngstown, OH
The first action you need to take if accused of a sex crime is to retain a trusted defense lawyer. The prosecution will work aggressively to convict you; you must be ready to challenge their assertions to secure an optimum result.
That is why you need an attorney experienced in the complexity of sex crime allegations to help you in these situations. The stakes are generally very high. At Law Office of Damian A. Billak, you can turn to a respected trial lawyer and proven defender who can provide detailed and aggressive help when accused of any offense, regardless of its nature.
Request a free case review with our Youngstown, OH sex crime attorney at Law Office of Damian A. Billak by calling (330) 862-8582 or contacting us online.
Penalties for Sex Crimes in Ohio
The Importance of Hiring Law Office of Damian A. Billak in Youngstown, OH Sex Crime Charges
When accused of a sex crime, hiring Attorney Damian Billak can be a crucial factor for your defense. With over 25 years of experience and a proven track record, he is a formidable force against prosecutors.
Our firm engages in aggressive advocacy, exploring every legal avenue to protect your rights and reputation. We also offer affordable rates and flexible payment plans, making quality legal representation accessible to everyone facing these serious charges.
Our approach to defending against sex crime allegations is comprehensive and personalized. We begin by thoroughly investigating the case and meticulously analyzing all evidence and witness statements. Attorney Billak is skilled at identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case, which can be pivotal in challenging evidence and suppressing unlawfully obtained information.
Crafting a tailored defense strategy is at the heart of our practice. We understand each case is unique and work closely with you to develop a defense that aligns with your specific circumstances and goals. Our firm remains steadfast in providing unwavering support throughout the legal process.
Guided by Compassion, Committed to Justice
Our Promise to You
-
Confidential and Compassionate CounselWe understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. Our firm offers confidential and compassionate legal counsel, providing the support you need while aggressively defending your rights.
-
Expert Advocacy in Complex CasesOur firm specializes in defending clients facing serious criminal charges. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the law, we provide expert advocacy to ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
-
Strategic Defense for Your FutureWe approach each case with a tailored strategy, focusing on minimizing the impact on your life. Our priority is to safeguard your future by pursuing every possible avenue for a favorable outcome.
-
Relentless Representation in CourtOur team is dedicated to standing by your side in court, fiercely defending your case with unwavering commitment. We fight for justice, ensuring that you receive a fair trial and the best possible defense.
What You Need to Know About Sex Crimes
Sex offenses are immensely complicated and vary in severity. Minor convictions can result in community service or probation, while others may carry years of jail time and mandatory sex offender registration.
Common sex crimes we defend include:
Indecent Exposure
This is generally covered under Ohio's public indecency laws. It involves exposing one's private parts, engaging in sexual conduct, or appearing nude in public with the intent to affront or alarm others. The severity of the charge can vary based on the circumstances, such as whether the act was witnessed by a minor, and can range from a misdemeanor to a felony.
Solicitation of Prostitution
This involves knowingly soliciting another person to engage in sexual activity for hire. It is illegal to offer, agree to, or engage in sexual conduct in exchange for money or other forms of compensation. Solicitation is typically a misdemeanor, but penalties can be more severe if the person solicited is a minor.
Solicitation of a Minor
This involves using a telecommunications device, such as a computer or phone, to engage or attempt to engage a minor in sexual activity. This offense is covered under the importuning laws, which make it illegal to solicit a person under 18 for sexual conduct. The severity of the charges can depend on the ages of both the victim and the offender, with stricter penalties if the minor is under 13.
Child Pornography
Possession or distribution of child sexual material can attract severe felony charges, with penalties including extensive prison terms and mandatory sex offender registration.
Internet Sex Crimes
Aside from child pornography and solicitation of a minor for sexual activity, this can include cyberstalking, cyberbullying with a sexual connotation, unwanted sexual advances, and harassment via digital communication. Charges can also arise from lewd behavior or indecent exposure through photos or live video streams.
Sexual Battery
Defined in Section 2907.03, sexual battery occurs when a person engages in sexual conduct with another by coercion, when the victim is unaware of the act, or when the offender is in a position of authority over the victim, such as a teacher or guardian. It is generally a third-degree felony but can be a second-degree felony if the victim is under 13.
Rape
Under Section 2907.02, rape involves engaging in sexual conduct with another person under circumstances such as using force or threat of force, impairing the victim's judgment through drugs or intoxicants, or when the victim is under 13. Rape is a first-degree felony.
Sexual Imposition
As per Section 2907.06, sexual imposition involves having sexual contact with another person under circumstances where the offender knows the contact is offensive or the victim is unable to appraise the nature of the act. It is a misdemeanor offense.
Ohio sex offender registration is a legal requirement for individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses.
Offenders are categorized into three tiers based on the severity of their offense:
- Tier 1: Requires registration every 12 months for 15 years. Offenses include voyeurism, importuning, and sexual imposition.
- Tier 2: Requires registration every 180 days for 25 years. Offenses include compelling prostitution and pandering obscenity involving a minor (which refers to the illegal act of creating, distributing, or possessing obscene material that involves a minor).
- Tier 3: Requires registration every 90 days for life. Offenses include rape, sexual battery, and kidnapping with sexual motivation.
Offenders must register their home, work, and school addresses with the local sheriff's office within three days of moving into a county. They must also provide information such as vehicle details and email addresses.
Tier 2 and 3 offenders are listed in Ohio's Electronic Sex Offender Registration and Notification database, which is accessible to the public. Tier 1 offenders are included only if the offense involved a minor.
These requirements are designed to monitor and manage individuals convicted of sexual offenses, aiming to enhance public safety.