Any child sex crime, be it online solicitation of a child, possession or distribution of child pornography, indecency with a child, or sexual assault of a child, are serious felonies exposing a defendant to significant prison time.
But even if a defendant avoids prison, he or she still faces several collateral consequences if is convicted of a child sex crime. These may not be so obvious. These include:
Sex offender registration: A defendant has to register as a sex offender for a period of 10 years or lifetime, depending on the offense. This registration is done through the Department of Public Safety. Anyone can search this public database to learn details of the defendant, including his address, the charge, and the case outcome.
Employment: A defendant convicted of a sex offense has serious problems finding employment. Nowadays, it is easy for employers to run background checks, and they routinely do. Prospective employees are also asked questions about their criminal history as part of the job application process.
Housing: A defendant convicted of a sex crime has great difficulty in renting or leasing an apartment or house. This means he or she is often left to have to buy a residence. This can be especially burdensome because of limited financial resources due to difficulties finding employment.
Loss of reputation: Being charged with a sex crime has serious adverse consequences on a defendant’s reputation. But being convicted takes these consequences to a whole new level. A defendant convicted of a sex offense risks losing family and his or her closest friends.
Immigration: Being convicted of a child sex crime can be devastating on a defendant’s immigration status. They could be deported from, or rendered inadmissible to, the United States.
If you are charged with a child sex crime, it is imperative you contact a criminal defense attorney who knows how to handle these cases. The Neal Davis Law Firm is experienced in these cases and has a proven track record of winning results. Please contact us for your consultation and learn how we can help you.
