Sexual Offences Solicitors

While rape and sexual assault are two of the most serious sexual offences, many others exist, including those that have been introduced recently especially in a bid to combat the targeting of children using the Internet. The possession of indecent images, for example, means that there are specific laws and sentencing guidelines that are used for cases that involve images of children.

Grooming laws have also been introduced, making it illegal to meet up with a minor with the intent of sexual activity. As well as the possibility of a custodial sentence, offenders may also be placed on the sex offenders’ registry, which can have a huge impact on many facets of life. Having skilled and qualified legal representation throughout the duration of any sexual offence case is important, because it will help ensure that you receive a fair trial and an appropriate verdict and sentence for your crime.

Rape is considered the most serious sexual offence, and it carries considerable penalties. These cases will often come down to a question of whether consent was given, and whether the defendant could reasonably assume that consent had been given. There are some cases, however, where the courts will assume that consent was not provided, either because of the age of the victim or because of a disability that they suffer.

With all sexual assault cases, the level of force, the threat of physical violence, and the degree of coercion that was used by the defendant will be questioned. The more violent the crime, the greater the sentence is likely to be. Furthermore, lengthier sentences will usually be meted out for crimes against people that are considered vulnerable, including the very young and very old, as well as people with physical or mental disabilities.

Sexual offences carry a considerable stigma, and being accused of this type of crime can have a harrowing effect on the accused as well as their family. Solid and professional legal advice is absolutely essential, and if you are accused of any form of sexual offence, then you should ensure that you have representation from the very first police interview. Contact Ashcott Solicitors to discuss your case, and to determine the best course of action.

Sexual Offences – Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes sexual offences?

Sexual offences are all made up of a relatively broad variety of individual offences. They almost all come under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, which was enacted to modernise and more closely define previously ambiguous legislation. 

Offences in the act include rape, sexual assault, crimes surrounding the distribution and possession of indecent imagery, and offences again children. It is highly unlikely that you will be charged with something as general as sexual offences – the police should be specific about the exact charge that you are facing.

Sexual offences can occur in a wide variety of settings, between strangers and friends alike. Part of what makes the legal area surrounding sexual offences so difficult to navigate is that it depends to a high degree on the state of mind and intent of both the appellant and defendant. 

Classifications of sexual offences

There are several main different specific sexual offences:

Rape

Rape is an offence where a male individual, using his penis, without consent penetrates a male or female in the mouth, vagina or anus. Rape is arguably the most serious of the various different sexual offences and carries with it a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Causing sexual activity without consult

Causing sexual activity without consent covers a broad range of sexual acts. What must be common to all of them will be four conditions. Intentionally causing the claimant to engage in the activity, the activity being sexual, the claimant not consenting to the activity, and the defendant having reason to believe that the claimant did not consent. If all four are present, in the case that penetration is carried out, the maximum sentence can be up to life imprisonment. 

Sexual assault

Sexual assault is an offence where an individual intentionally touches another individual sexually without consent. Sexual assault often occurs in public environments – for example in the street, in a bar or on public transport. Sexual assault is a serious offence and carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment. 

Assault by penetration

Assault by penetration is the criminal offence of penetrating another individual, in the vagina or anus, without their consent. Under the offence, penetration might have been either carried out with a part of the body or with another object. 

There must also be sexual intent. It is a serious offence, and carries a maximum sentence of up to life imprisonment. 

What should you do if you’ve been charged with sexual offences?

Sexual offences carry a lot of stigma, which makes it incredibly important that you deal with a charge in that area with care and caution. 

Whether you have already been charged with a sexual offence or believe that you may face an imminent charge of that nature, it’s imperative that you seek legal representation immediately. Ideally, you will have legal advice prior to even a police interview taking place. 

Speak to our team on 0161 234 0020 (Manchester) /0203 053 8625 (London) / 07956 555979 (24 hour), or you can also contact us via our contact form.