Federal sex crimes typically involve large-scale offenses such as sex trafficking. The police might also charge someone with a federal sex offense if that person crossed state lines to commit the act.
Any charge related to sexual misconduct is serious, and you should retain a skilled defense attorney if you are facing criminal charges related to a sex crime. A Bellevue federal sex crimes lawyer can aggressively defend you in court and protect your constitutional rights.
A Bellevue Attorney Can Defend Against Several Federal Sex Offenses
Many federal sex offenses are similar to their corresponding state statutes, while others differ drastically. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can help you identify the differences between state and federal sex crimes. Common federal sex offenses that prosecutors pursue include:
- Rape of a minor child
- Human trafficking
- Child pornography
- Selling a child to engage in sexual activities
- Failure to register as a sex offender
Upon conviction, the penalties for these offenses are severe.
Penalties Upon Conviction for a Sex-Related Charge
Sex offenses typically carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning a conviction will lead to incarceration. Judges presiding over these types of cases have some leeway in the sentences they order, but they cannot overturn the federally-mandated minimums.
A conviction can also lead to devastating consequences in the defendant’s personal and professional life. It is difficult for many individuals convicted of a sex crime to maintain employment or find adequate housing. These convictions can also impact a person’s parental rights or immigration status.
Federal Sex Offender Registry Requirements
The most prominent consequence of a conviction is the requirement to register as a sex offender. This process involves registration with the National Sex Offender Registration and Notification System. The system tracks state and federal sex offenders nationwide.
Failing to register can result in additional criminal charges and jail time. In some cases, the court orders convicted individuals to regularly update the registry with information about their residence and employment, among other things. An experienced lawyer can fight on your behalf work to have the federal sex crime charges dismissed or reduced.
Factors That May Impact the Severity of Your Sentence
Certain factors can significantly impact the severity of an individual’s sentence upon conviction. For example, the court penalizes offenses against children much more heavily than other crimes.
Additionally, if an individual has previous convictions for state or federal sex crimes, that could drastically increase the prison sentence he or she may receive. If you are concerned about how past convictions could harm your case, consult with an experienced federal sex crimes lawyer at Berry Law.
Berry Law’s Team Provides You With Multiple Attorney Perspectives
Talk to a Bellevue Federal Sex Crimes Attorney Today
A conviction for a federal sex offense can upend your life, especially if the court requires you to register as a sex offender. From difficulty finding jobs and housing to ostracization in your community, the implications of a conviction are severe.
A Bellevue federal sex crimes lawyer can you put together an effective defense strategy and work to protect your rights throughout the criminal proceeding. Contact Berry Law today to find out how our dedicated team will work with you to fight your charges. Schedule a confidential consultation today to get started.
