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Sex Crimes Attorney
Don’t let sexual assault charges ruin your future. Contact a sex crimes lawyer in Rhode Island at (401) 751-5151 for help with your case today.
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Seek Guidance and Representation from an Experienced Sex Crimes Attorney in Rhode Island
If you are facing charges for a sexual assault or sexual misconduct in Rhode Island, you probably feel frightened and anxious about your future. You might wonder if you’ll need to pay a fine or even go to jail. If this describes your situation, you need to contact a sex crimes attorney immediately.
Rhode Island prosecutors take sex crimes very seriously, and so should you. If you’ve been charged with a sex crime, contact me today.
Types of Sex Crimes in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, sex crimes can include:
- Sexual assault: Sexual penetration through the use of force or coercion; also includes sexual acts with a non-spouse who is mentally disabled or physically helpless
- Statutory rape: Sexual contact with a person between the ages of 14 and 16
- Child molestation: Sexual contact with a person under 14 years old
- Prostitution: Performing sex acts in exchange for compensation
- STD exposure: Knowingly exposing someone to HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases
- Indecent exposure: Revealing one’s genitals in public
If you’re dealing with any of these charges, call a sex crimes law firm at (401) 751-5151 to speak with our sex crimes lawyer today.
Tiers of Sexual Assault in Rhode Island
Rhode Island classifies sexual assault as first, second, or third degree. Third-degree sexual assault, or statutory rape, is the lightest charge. Anyone over 18 who engages in sexual contact with someone between 14 and 16 years old has committed third-degree sexual assault in the eyes of the law.
First-degree sexual assault includes sexual penetration under these circumstances:
- Using force or coercion
- The victim is a non-spouse who’s mentally disabled or physically helpless
- Overcoming the victim through concealment or surprise
- Engaging in medical treatment for sexual gratification
Second-degree sexual assault is similar but involves sexual contact, not penetration. Sexual contact simply means touching the victim’s intimate parts for the perpetrator’s gratification. Intimate parts include genitals, buttocks, inner thighs, and breasts.
Contact a sex crimes lawyer to know more about different levels of sexual assault in Rhode Island.
Common Sexual Assault Scenarios in Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s sexual assault laws are complex, so it’s easy to run afoul of them even if unintended.
For instance, it’s possible to commit sexual assault against a romantic partner even if you engaged in sexual activity with them before. Your partner may have said “yes” previously, but it only takes one “no” to turn a consensual encounter into sexual assault.
Generally, Rhode Island doesn’t care what happens in the bedroom between consenting adults. But if you’re over 18 and you have sex with someone who’s 15, that’s sexual assault. Even if both partners were willing, the state can still charge you with a crime.
Failing to report sexual assault is a crime, too. Rhode Island requires you to notify police immediately if you see or suspect sexual assault. If you don’t, you could face fines of up to $500 and up to one year in jail.
Call a sex crimes attorney to learn how to respond to sexual assault charges.
Consequences You May Face for Sexual Assault Charges or Conviction in Rhode Island
Sexual assault crimes involve intimate violence against another person, and the consequences for these crimes can be severe. If convicted of first-degree sexual assault, punishment may include 10 years to life in prison. If you hurt someone with the intention to commit sexual assault, that’s a crime punishable by three to 20 years in prison.
Rhode Island punishes second-degree sexual assault with three to 15 years in prison. If you’re convicted of statutory rape, you could go to prison for up to five years.
Promptly Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney for Sex Crimes in Rhode Island as Soon as You Suspect You May Soon Be Facing Charges
If you’re convicted of a sex crime, you could spend decades in jail or even go to prison for life. When the stakes are this high, you can’t afford to risk representing yourself in court.
Thomas G. Briody is our seasoned sex crimes lawyer who can put together an aggressive defense to protect your rights. Call the Law Offices of Thomas G. Briody at (401) 751-5151 for a consultation with our sexual crime lawyer today.
Law Offices of Thomas G. Briody — Aggressive, Compassionate Defense
Why Choose the Law Offices of Thomas G. Briody?
You need help right now to improve your legal situation and put your life back together. Time is of the essence. We are here to guide you and advocate on your behalf. Move past the paralyzing anxiety and begin protecting your future. The sooner you reach out, the better we may be able to help you, so call the Law Offices of Thomas G. Briody in Providence, Rhode Island, today.
- Aggressive, compassionate defense from an advocate who is deeply familiar with the intricacies of the legal system in Rhode Island
- Strong and effective representation for both state and federal criminal allegations
- Experience building on three decades of Rhode Island criminal defense cases
- Personal, individualized direct handling of your case from a seasoned Rhode Island attorney
- A strong record representing individuals accused of crimes, ranging from teenagers to high-ranking government officials
- Creative tactics to preserve opportunities for your future and to clear your name
- Peace of mind under pressure
