When allegations of online solicitation involve a minor, the penalties for a conviction can be severe. A Lincoln online solicitation of a minor lawyer at Berry Law can review the charges you are facing and fight to get them reduced or dismissed. By working with a sex crimes attorney on our team, you can rely on our skilled defense attorneys to protect your legal rights.
Overview of Online Solicitation of a Minor
According to Nebraska Revised Statutes §28-320.02, the crime of online solicitation of a minor occurs when an individual purposefully uses online channels to seek out or persuade a person under the age of 16 to participate in sexual activities. Even if the alleged perpetrator is actually communicating with an undercover law enforcement officer and only believes that the person they are trying to communicate with is 16 years of age or younger, they can still be charged with solicitation of a minor.
The defense strategies available in an online solicitation of a minor case vary. Therefore, it is critical to talk with a Lincoln attorney about relevant laws and potential defenses for a case involving an online solicitation of a minor charge.
Penalties Associated with a Conviction
The penalties associated with a conviction for online solicitation of a minor depend on several factors. This offense is punishable as a Class ID felony, which carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 3 years in the state of Nebraska. However, the term of incarceration imposed by the court could range up to 50 years.
There may also be circumstances that enhance an online solicitation of a minor charge and cause the Class ID felony offense to be elevated to a Class IC felony. For example, if the accused was previously convicted of assault in the first degree under Neb. Rev. Stat. §28-308 and is subsequently convicted of online solicitation of a minor, they would face enhanced Class IC felony penalties. A prior conviction for online solicitation of a minor would also bring enhanced penalties.
The maximum prison term for a Class IC felony conviction is 50 years. However, the mandatory minimum period is 5 years. It’s also important to note that a person can be convicted of online solicitation of a minor even if no sexual interaction took place. Therefore, if prosecutors allege that sexual conduct did take place, a conviction could result in aggravated legal punishments. A local online solicitation of a minor attorney at Berry Law can review your case and identify the most viable defense strategies for your charges.
Speak with a Lincoln Online Solicitation of a Minor Attorney
A Lincoln online solicitation of a minor lawyer at our firm will be familiar with the nuances and complexities of local the court process and can be an invaluable ally throughout your case. One of our knowledgeable attorneys can answer your questions and discuss the best course of action moving forward. Call Berry Law now to arrange a confidential consultation with one of our attorneys.