Sexual crimes are all-encompassing and refer to sexual assault or abuse and rape. Many of these crimes vary by definition in each state. Our attorneys work diligently to get the results you deserve as a victim of a sex crime. Do not hesitate to contact a Plymouth County sex crimes lawyer at the Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan for the best legal representation.
Research and data suggest that every 98 seconds, someone in the United States faces sexual assault. There are more than 320,000 cases of sexual assault each year, with a majority of the victims being children. There are plenty of sexual abuse cases that no one ever reports to the authorities, and many come to light after the fact. If you or a loved one are a victim of a sex crime, you can turn to our legal team for support. The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan have had much success in lawsuits against sexual abusers. A Plymouth County sex crimes lawyer is sure to exceed all expectations.
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Common Sex Crime Cases
Many different kinds of sexual violence include; sexual abuse of children, sexual assault, incest, and intimate partner sexual abuse. Any of these sexual abuse claims occur in public or private elementary, middle and high schools, daycare centers, religious institutions, foster and group homes, clubs, shelter homes, residential treatment facilities, and hospitals, to just name a few.
Sexual assault refers to sexual contact or behavior that happens without the explicit consent of the victim. Forms of sexual assault include:
- Attempted rape
- Fondling or unwanted sexual touching
- Forcing a victim to perform sexual acts
- Penetration of a victim’s body
A form of sexual assault that we briefly touch on above is rape. While rape is a form of sexual assault, not all sexual assault is rape. The legal definition of rape includes specific sexual penetration without consent. Furthermore, force doesn’t always refer to physical pressure. Perpetrators can use emotional coercion, psychological intimidation, and manipulation to force a victim into non-consensual sex.
Sexual abuse of children includes sexual activity with a minor. No child can consent to any form of sexual activity. Perpetrators who engage with children this way commit a crime with long-lasting effects on the victim for years. Sexual child abuse does not necessarily have to be physical contact between a perpetrator and a child. There are other forms of sexual abuse of children that can be fondling, intercourse, sex trafficking, or any further contact of sexual nature that involves a minor.
Incest refers to sexual contact between family members. Laws vary from state to state on what constitutes incest crimes but regardless, unwanted sexual contact from a family member can have a long-term effect on the survivor.
Additionally, intimate partner sexual violence can occur in any close relationship. This type of abuse is not relevant to gender or sexuality but rather abusive behavior.
What Happens After a Sex Crime?
Once you or a loved one report the crime to law enforcement, they assign an investigation officer to the case. The officer is responsible for putting the case together for the District Attorney to review.
Next, the victims go through various interviews, one of which involves the investigating officer asking the victim to recount the incident. Any witnesses to the crime may need to visit the office for an interview.
In many of these cases, officers have the victim call the client and ask them questions about the case. They may ask some questions, such as, “why did you do that to me? The investigating officer records all the questions and answers with the hope of getting a confession that they can use against the perpetrator.
Finally, the investigating officer will interview the suspect. Results from the police investigation go to the DA. After the investigation is complete, the case will go to the Supervising District Attorney. They will discuss the claim and decide what charges to file.
Call a Plymouth County Sex Crime Lawyer Today
At the Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan, our Plymouth County sex crime lawyers focus solely on those claims. We believe in top-level legal work, personalized service, and results that make a difference in our clients’ lives. At the same time, many lawyers don’t handle their cases the way we do. We strive to make sure each of our clients receives the compensation and fair treatment they deserve. The best evidence of our quality service is from recommendations from former clients. We take great pride in our many clients who come from suggestions from former or existing customers to their family, co-workers, and friends.
If you or a loved one believe you are the victim of a sex crime, please call us as soon as possible. Call our office at 1-508-588-0422.
