Experienced Sex Crime Defense Attorneys in Lebanon
Aggressive representation for clients accused of sex offenses in Nashville, Mt. Juliet, Cookeville, and throughout Tennessee
Sex crimes carry a strong stigma in our society. Not only are lengthy prison terms common for even relatively minor sex crime offenses, but convicted sex offenders are branded for life. Even after serving jail time, their name, address, and photograph can be publicized by the authorities. Sex offenders can find their options for employment and residence severely limited, and these restrictions may remain in place for the rest of their lives.
If you are accused of a sex crime in Middle Tennessee, you need an experienced Lebanon criminal defense attorney to fight to save your freedom and reputation. If you are being investigated or facing charges for a sex crime, contact Lowery, Lowery & Cherry, PLLC today. We offer comprehensive, aggressive representation on behalf of the accused in state and federal courts. Contact us in Lebanon about building an effective defense against your charges today.
What constitutes a sexual offense in Tennessee?
Sexual offenses are considered crimes against persons, and as such, are often categorized as violent crimes. There are multiple degrees of sexual offenses under Tennessee statues, ranging from Class B misdemeanors, which are punishable with fines and (potentially) jail time, to Class A felonies, which are punishable with up to 60 years in prison (plus thousands of dollars in fines).
Generally speaking, offenses involving sexual contact fall into two categories: rape, which is the act of intercourse without consent, and sexual assault, which is any other unwanted sexual contact that does not fit into the specific definition of rape. Under the law, these types of crimes usually fall under “sexual battery” and “sexual abuse,” if they involve unwanted touching or contact.
Do I need an attorney if I’m facing sex crime charges?
A guilty plea is almost never a good choice in a sex crime case. In the best scenario, you should retain an experienced sex crime defense lawyer as early in the process as possible, as soon as you feel you may even be under investigation.
Even if you have already been convicted of a sex crime, an attorney may still be of use to you. Relief from your penalties may be obtainable through a Tennessee writ of habeas corpus. However, only your attorney will know for sure. Partner Jeff Cherry was a Metro Police Officer for 10 years, and he can leverage his experience to help build a successful case for your defense.
What kinds of sex crimes and charges does your firm handle?
There are many types of sex crimes, but the most serious involve:
- Rape
- Aggravated Rape
- Sexual battery
- Aggravated sexual battery
- Statutory rape
- Sexual contact with a minor
- Indecent exposure
- Prostitution
- Patronizing prostitution
- Promoting travel for prostitution
- Public indecency
- Rape of a child
- Aggravated rape of a child
- Continuous sexual abuse of a child
- Sexual battery by an authority figure
- Statutory rape by an authority figure
- Soliciting a minor
- Soliciting sexual exploitation of a minor
Sex crimes need not be committed in person. They may be committed via the mail or over the phone or Internet. If you have been accused of online sexual offenses, contact our office.
What is the difference between state and federal sex crime charges?
You can be charged with a sex crime at the state level or at the federal level – it depends on who handles the investigation, and who makes the arrest. Sex crimes can also be prosecuted by local or federal attorneys, and may involve the United States Attorney’s Office or the Department of Justice.
The types of authorities who may investigate sex crimes are quite varied. Such crimes may be handled by:
- Local police
- The F.B.I.
- S. Postal Inspectors
- The Department of Homeland Security
- The Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Understand that if you are convicted of a sex crime, you may end up on two registries – the National Sex Offender Registry and the Tennessee Sex Offender Registry. Being removed from either of these registries is incredibly difficult, though it is not impossible. Contact Lowery, Lowery & Cherry today to learn more.
There is no doubt that being charged with any type of sex crime can be devastating emotionally and physically. A sexual abuse charge can cause problems in many areas of your life; problems that can haunt you for years. The social stigma of a sex crime charge can create ripple effects that are difficult to bear and that strain relationships at work, in your social life, and with your family, friends, and neighbors.
Work with an experienced Lebanon sex offense defense lawyer
The Lebanon defense attorneys of Lowery, Lowery & Cherry, PLLC possess over 70 years of combined legal experience, and pride themselves on providing their clients with an energized and highly focused approach along with an impressive range of legal expertise. If you’ve been accused of a sex crime, contact us for skilled representation. We serve clients in Nashville, Mt. Juliet, Cookeville, or elsewhere in Tennessee. To set up a consultation, call 615-444-7222 or fill out our contact form.