What Should You Avoid Doing After Being Accused of a Crime
Finding yourself accused of a crime, whether it’s something you did or something you absolutely did not do, is one of the most frightening and disorienting experiences a person can go through. The fear, the confusion, the urgency to make it stop, all of that is completely understandable. And it’s exactly in those moments of […]
Read MoreWhat Is the Difference Between Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment?
When someone experiences unwanted sexual conduct, understanding the legal distinctions between different types of violations becomes crucial for pursuing appropriate remedies. The confusion between sexual assault and sexual harassment often stems from overlapping behaviors, but these offenses carry different legal consequences, remedies, and procedural requirements. Sexual assault and sexual harassment represent distinct categories of misconduct […]
Read MoreWhat Three Elements Must Be Present to Prove That a Sexual Assault Occurred?
Sexual assault cases represent some of the most serious criminal charges in Missouri’s legal system. These cases require careful examination of evidence and thorough understanding of legal standards to ensure justice for all parties involved. When someone faces accusations of sexual assault, the prosecution must establish specific elements beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a […]
Read MoreWhat Are Aggravating Factors in Missouri Sexual Assault Sentencing?
When someone is convicted of sexual assault in Missouri, the judge has a range of sentencing options. Missouri law allows harsher penalties when certain aggravating factors are present. These factors can significantly increase the sentence—or even change its classification. An attorney can explain how the factors can affect your sexual assault case. What Counts as […]
Read MoreWhen Do You Have to Register as a Sex Offender in Missouri?
In Missouri, individuals convicted of certain sex offenses must register with the state’s sex offender registry as part of their punishment. The length of time you must register for and how frequently you must reverify your registration information depends on the type of offense committed. And failing to register can result in additional legal penalties. […]
Read MoreCan a 17-Year-Old Legally Date a 20-Year-Old in Missouri?
Yes, a 17-year-old can legally date a 20-year-old in Missouri. There are no state laws governing who may date whom or at what age. However, Missouri does have laws that regulate sexual activity with young people under 17. Here’s what you need to know about those laws and how a sex crime defense attorney can […]
Read MoreWhat Is the Jail Time for Sexual Assault in Missouri?
Sexual assault and related offenses in Missouri carry severe penalties, including the potential for a life sentence in some cases. If you face charges related to sexual assault or similar crimes, talk to a St. Louis sex crimes defense attorney right away. Penalties for Sexual Assault in Missouri The penalties for sexual assault in Missouri […]
Read MoreHow an Attorney Defends Against Rape and Sexual Assault Charges in Missouri
Rape and sexual assault charges carry some of the harshest criminal penalties under Missouri law. Not only will a conviction for a sex crime send you to jail for a long time, but you could also lose your job or housing, and you might have to register as a sexual offender. Working with an experienced […]
Read MoreI Was Charged with a Minor Sexual Battery. What Do I Do Next?
Sex offenses involving minors, including statutory rape and child molestation, carry some of the harshest criminal penalties under Missouri law. Depending on the offense, you could be facing the rest of your life in prison if you’re convicted. If the police have accused you of illegal sex acts involving a minor, working with a St. […]
Read MoreWhat Is the Most Common Defense for Sexual Assault?
The most common defense against sexual assault allegations in Missouri is that the alleged victim consented to the sexual contact. Consent is a crucial factor in determining whether a sexual assault occurred, as Missouri defines sexual assault as sexual contact without the other party’s consent. If you’re facing charges of sexual assault and wish to […]
Read More