Philadelphia Sex Crimes Lawyers Defending Your Future
Facing sex crime allegations in Pennsylvania? You need a strong defense. Sex crime charges can arise from a wide range of behavior—not just rape. Something as seemingly minor as public nudity while intoxicated or sending explicit messages to a minor could lead to life-altering consequences. If you’re accused, remain silent and contact a Philadelphia sex crimes lawyer immediately.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a sex crime, it is crucial to hire a skilled Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer to help you fight these charges and avoid the harsh penalties associated with a conviction. With considerable experience in sex offense cases in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and the surrounding areas, contact Fienman Defense for a free and confidential case evaluation. We’ll review what happened, the allegations, and your options.
Common Sex Crime Charges in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law covers a wide range of sex offenses, each with specific legal definitions and severe consequences. Here are some of the most common sex crimes and their corresponding Pennsylvania code sections:
Rape – 18 Pa.C.S. § 3121
Non-consensual sexual intercourse with another person, including cases where the victim is unconscious, mentally incapacitated, or under threat of force.
Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse (IDSI) – 18 Pa.C.S. § 3123
Engaging in oral or anal sex with someone without their consent or with someone who is unable to consent due to age, mental disability, or intoxication.
Sexual Assault – 18 Pa.C.S. § 3124.1
Non-consensual sexual contact that does not meet the criteria for rape but still involves significant violations of the victim’s autonomy and body.
Statutory Sexual Assault – 18 Pa.C.S. § 3122.1
Engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor under the age of 16, where the defendant is four or more years older than the minor.
Aggravated Indecent Assault – 18 Pa.C.S. § 3125
Indecent contact with a victim, especially when it involves force, threats, or when the victim is unconscious or unable to consent due to age or mental incapacity.
Indecent Assault – 18 Pa.C.S. § 3126
Engaging in unwanted sexual contact without penetration, often involving touching or groping.
Indecent Exposure – 18 Pa.C.S. § 3127
Exposing one’s genitals in public or to a minor with the intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire.
Child Pornography – 18 Pa.C.S. § 6312
The possession, distribution, or production of explicit images or videos involving minors.
Unlawful Contact with a Minor – 18 Pa.C.S. § 6318
Engaging in inappropriate communication with a minor, often involving grooming behaviors or attempting to lure the minor into sexual acts.
Sexual Exploitation of Children – 18 Pa.C.S. § 6320
Exploiting minors for sexual acts or performances for commercial gain or personal gratification.
Sex Trafficking – 18 Pa.C.S. § 3011
The recruitment, transportation, or harboring of individuals for the purpose of commercial sexual exploitation.
Obscene Materials and Performances – 18 Pa.C.S. § 5903
The production, distribution, or display of materials deemed obscene, including those that depict sexual acts involving minors.
Incest – 18 Pa.C.S. § 4302
Under PA law, incest is a criminal offense and is considered a serious felony, especially when minors are involved. In addition to criminal penalties, incestuous relationships are strictly prohibited under Pennsylvania marriage laws, which invalidate any marriage or legal union between close relatives. Those convicted of incest face severe consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and the social stigma associated with this offense.
Failure to Register as a Sex Offender – 42 Pa.C.S. § 9799.14
Under Pennsylvania law, individuals convicted of certain sex crimes are required to register as sex offenders under Megan’s Law. Failure to register or update information, such as a change of address, employment, or travel plans, is itself a criminal offense and can result in additional felony charges. The penalties for failing to register include extended prison sentences, increased registration periods, and additional fines. Compliance with registration requirements is crucial, and even unintentional failures to comply can lead to severe legal consequences.
Registering as a Sex Offender In Pennsylvania
After you’ve served your time and paid your legal fees and any criminal fines, you’ll probably need to register as sex offender. Failure to register as a sex offender will result in harsh consequences. Information about you and your conviction will be public information, available immediately to anyone with an Internet connection.
Specifically, you will be required to register as a sex offender if you get convicted of one or more of the following offenses:
- Rape
- Sex trafficking
- Involuntary deviate sexual intercourse
- Aggravated indecent assault
- Indecent assault on a child younger than 13
- Promotion of prostitution with victims that are minors
- Unlawful contact with a minor
- Unlawful communication with a minor
- Sexual exploitation of a child
- Kidnapping of a child
Your registration must include information about the crime you committed, a sample of your DNA, your hand prints, your home address, your workplace, and a photograph. You must report to the local authorities four times per year to update this information, and give advance notice of any international travel plans. If you fail to comply with the registration requirements, you could get charged with a felony involving a five-year prison sentence.
Because of how easy it is to access the information contained on the sex offender’s list, sex offenders find it extremely difficult to find a job or a place to live. Even those who are not required to register on the sex offender’s list may still face difficulties in finding a job or obtaining a professional license because of the sex crimes conviction visible on their permanent criminal record.
How We Defend Against Philadelphia Sex Crime Charges
Sex crime allegations carry a powerful social stigma. Prosecutors face immense pressure to secure convictions—especially in high-profile cases involving allegations of rape or offenses against children. As a result, even weak or questionable evidence can lead to a conviction without strong legal representation.
At Fienman Defense, we challenge the prosecution’s case by:
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Exposing weaknesses in the evidence and testimony
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Highlighting inconsistencies in witness statements
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Investigating the credibility and possible motives of the accuser
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Uncovering procedural errors or mishandling of evidence
Forensic evidence—like DNA—can be powerful, but it’s also susceptible to contamination or misinterpretation. A skilled sex crimes attorney will scrutinize every aspect of the investigation, from how evidence was collected to how it was tested in the lab. We know how to identify flaws in the case and use them to your advantage.
Common Defenses to Sex Crime Charges in Pennsylvania
Defending against sex crime charges requires a thorough understanding of the law and a strategic approach to highlight weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Some common defenses include:
Consent
Demonstrating that the alleged victim consented to the sexual activity can be a strong defense, especially in cases where consent is disputed. However, this defense is not applicable in cases involving minors or individuals who are incapacitated.
False Accusations
Sex crime charges can sometimes stem from false accusations made out of malice, revenge, or misunderstanding. An experienced lawyer will investigate the motives and credibility of the accuser and seek to uncover inconsistencies or motives to lie.
Mistaken Identity
In some cases, especially those involving unclear or circumstantial evidence, the defense may argue that the defendant was not the perpetrator. Eyewitness misidentification, lack of physical evidence, or alibi testimony can support this defense.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak, circumstantial, or lacks corroboration, the defense can argue that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof.
Entrapment
This defense argues that law enforcement induced the defendant to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. This is particularly relevant in cases involving sting operations or undercover officers. If the defense can show that the police coerced or persuaded the defendant into committing the offense, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Procedural Errors
Any violations of legal procedures, such as improper collection or handling of evidence, failure to read Miranda rights, or illegal searches and seizures, can lead to evidence being excluded or charges being dismissed.
Why You Need a Philadelphia Sex Crimes Lawyer
Any criminal charge should be treated seriously, but this holds especially true for sex offenses because of the harsh penalties and stigma attached to these crimes. This means that if you get arrested—or even if you suspect you are under investigation—for a sexual offense you should retain the services of a reputable and experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
A qualified lawyer can help by:
- Building a Strong Defense: An attorney will analyze all evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop a tailored defense strategy to fight the charges.
- Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, an attorney may negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced charge or lighter sentence, particularly when the evidence against the defendant is strong.
- Challenging Unlawful Evidence: A defense lawyer will scrutinize all evidence for legality and reliability, seeking to suppress any unlawfully obtained evidence or highlight inconsistencies.
- Supporting You Through the Process: Facing sex crime charges can be incredibly stressful. An attorney provides not only legal representation but also emotional support and guidance throughout the legal process.
Our goal is to give each and every one of our clients the best chances possible when passing through the criminal justice system. This means providing them with personal attention and aggressive advocacy to ensure that their rights are respected throughout the criminal process.
If you’ve been charged with a sex crime, call us today at (215) 839-9529 for a free and confidential consultation of your case.
FAQs About Sex Offenses in Pennsylvania
Can You Be Charged with a Sex Crime for Consensual Acts?
Yes, you can be charged with a sex crime for consensual activities if the other party is unable to legally give consent, such as in cases involving minors or individuals who are intoxicated or mentally incapacitated. Statutory Sexual Assault (18 Pa.C.S. § 3122.1) is an example where even consensual sexual intercourse is illegal if one party is underage and the age difference is significant.
What is Entrapment and How Can it Be Used as a Defense?
Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces someone to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. In sex crime cases, this often involves sting operations where undercover officers might pretend to be minors or interested parties. If it can be shown that law enforcement coerced or manipulated you into committing a crime, the charges could be reduced or dismissed.
How Do Attorneys Defend Against False Allegations?
Defense against false accusations often involves investigating the motives of the accuser, examining inconsistencies in their statements, and gathering evidence that contradicts their claims. A defense lawyer can also utilize expert witnesses to discredit the prosecution’s evidence or provide an alternative explanation for the alleged crime.
What Should I Do if I am Accused of a Sex Crime in Philadelphia?
If you are accused of a sex crime, it is crucial to remain silent and avoid making any statements to the authorities without a lawyer present. Contact a Philadelphia sex crimes lawyer immediately to discuss your case. Your lawyer will help protect your rights, evaluate the charges against you, and develop a strong defense strategy.
Accused of a Sex Crime in Pennsylvania? Call Fienman Defense
At Fienman Defense, we understand the gravity of sex crime charges and the profound impact they can have on your life. Our team is dedicated to providing aggressive, personalized defense to help you navigate the legal system and protect your future. Whether you are facing charges for rape, indecent assault, child pornography, or any other sex crime, we are here to help.
Contact us today at (215) 839-9529 for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case and start building your defense.
Attorney Michael H. Fienman is licensed to practice before:
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The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania
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The Supreme Court of New Jersey
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The U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey
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The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania