Raleigh Sex Crimes Attorneys
Facing allegations of a sex crime in Raleigh can be overwhelming, carrying severe legal and social consequences. At Coolidge Law Firm, our experienced Raleigh sex crimes attorneys, Raleigh sex crime attorneys, and defense attorneys provide clear legal guidance to protect your rights and navigate the complexities of North Carolina law. If you’re under investigation or facing sex crime charges in North Carolina, immediate action is critical to protect your future. Speak with a Raleigh sex crime lawyer today.
Understanding Sex Crimes in North Carolina
Chapter 14, Article 7B of the General Statutes defines a wide range of sex offenses and related conduct. Below, we outline key offenses and potential consequences so you can understand the charges you may face in crimes in North Carolina cases.
First-Degree Rape and Sex Offense
First-degree, forcible rape involves vaginal intercourse by force and without consent with factors such as use or display of a deadly weapon, infliction of serious personal injury, or acting with one or more accomplices. It is a Class B1 felony with a presumptive sentence of 192–240 months in prison, satellite-based monitoring, and sex offender registration. These sex crime convictions can impact employment, housing, and travel.
Statutory Rape and Sex Offense
Statutory rape and related sex offenses are defined by the ages involved. Charges apply when vaginal intercourse or a sexual act is committed with a person aged 13 to 15 and the defendant is either at least six years older (Class B1 felony, 192–240 months with registration) or four to six years older (Class C felony, 58–73 months with registration). If the complainant is younger than 13 and the defendant is at least 12 and four years older, the offense is elevated to the most serious degree (Class B1).
Second-Degree Rape and Sex Offense
Second-degree forcible rape involves vaginal intercourse by force or with a person who is mentally disabled, mentally incapacitated, or physically helpless. It is a Class C felony (presumptive 58–73 months) and generally requires sex offender registration. Comparable elements apply to non-vaginal acts categorized as a sex offense under North Carolina law.
Sexual Battery
Sexual battery involves nonconsensual sexual contact for arousal or gratification, including touching sexual organs, anus, breast, groin, or buttocks. It is a Class A1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 150 days in jail, with possible registration in limited circumstances. Although a misdemeanor, a conviction can still carry jail time and collateral consequences.
Indecent Liberties with Children
Taking indecent liberties with a child under 16 (by a defendant at least five years older) for sexual gratification is a Class F felony, typically punishable by 13–16 months with mandatory registration. These cases can arise in family settings or involve teachers, coaches, or other school personnel, and often turn on witness credibility and corroboration.
Indecent Exposure
Willfully exposing private parts in public is a Class 2 misdemeanor. Exposure to a minor under 16 for sexual gratification escalates to a Class H felony (4–6 months) and may require sex offender registration.
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor (Child Pornography)
North Carolina classifies “sexual exploitation of a minor” by degree. Production/promotion is a Class C felony (typically 58–73 months); distribution/receiving is a Class E felony (often 20–25 months); possession is a Class H felony (often 4–6 months). Federal prosecutions can involve mandatory minimums and longer imprisonment. These sex offenses are aggressively prosecuted, and a person convicted of a sex crime involving minors faces years in prison and registration.
Sex Offender Registry in North Carolina
A sex crime conviction may require registration on the North Carolina sex offender registry, a public database listing name, photo, and address, with restrictions on residency and employment. After 10 years, some individuals may petition for removal; eligibility depends on statutory criteria.
Our Raleigh sex crimes team can evaluate eligibility, prepare filings, and guide you through the process.
Penalties and Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction
Being convicted of a sex crime in North Carolina can result in significant prison terms, mandatory registration, and a lasting criminal record. Depending on the charge, punishments range from months to decades in custody, and in the most serious cases, a potential life sentence. Collateral impacts can include employment limits, travel restrictions, and immigration consequences.
- Statutory rape (Class B1 or C): lengthy years in prison and registration.
- Sex offenses charged as felonies: active time is common even for first-time offenders.
- Exploitation-related offenses: long state sentences; some matters proceed in federal court with higher penalties.
Our attorneys explain sentencing exposure in detail so clients and their families understand risks and options at each stage.
Track Record and Approach to Defense
Coolidge Law Firm has a proven track record defending clients in Raleigh sex crimes cases across a broad range of sex offenses. A Raleigh sex crime attorney from our team evaluates statutes, the evidence, and potential defenses tailored to your situation.
Building a Strong Defense Against Sex Crime Charges
Every case turns on facts and proof. Our Raleigh criminal defense lawyers and sex crime lawyers focus on:
- Challenging identification and credibility where inconsistencies exist.
- Evaluating DNA evidence and forensic procedures for error or contamination.
- Analyzing digital evidence (scope, timing, authenticity) and search/warrant issues.
- Raising statutory defenses and holding the state to each required element beyond a reasonable doubt.
We also address pretrial motions (suppression, discovery) and realistic sentencing outcomes. A documented track record of preparation and advocacy helps protect your rights.
Federal vs. State Charges
Some allegations may draw federal interest. Early involvement by a defense attorney can influence forum considerations, discovery, and resolution strategy. Our team coordinates across jurisdictions when necessary.
Sex Crimes Defense in Raleigh FAQs
What should I do if I’m under investigation for a sex crime?
Do not make statements to law enforcement without counsel. Contact a Raleigh sex crime attorney to preserve your rights and begin a defense strategy.
Can I be removed from the sex offender registry?
Some individuals may petition for removal after a statutory period, subject to strict criteria and once-per-year filing rules. Our attorneys can handle the process and advise a loved one, assisting with documentation and scheduling.
What is the difference between first- and second-degree rape?
First-degree involves aggravating factors (e.g., weapon, serious injury, accomplices) and carries higher penalties. Second-degree lacks those factors but remains a serious felony with substantial prison exposure.
How can a lawyer help if I’m falsely accused?
An attorney investigates the allegations, challenges evidence, and presents defenses tailored to the elements the state must prove.
What practice areas does your firm handle besides sex crimes?
Our criminal defense practice areas include DWI, drug charges, violent crimes, and federal defense. This broader experience informs strategy when cases involve overlapping issues.
What happens if I am convicted of a sex crime in North Carolina?
A person convicted may face years in prison, registration, and restrictions long after release. A Raleigh sex crime lawyer can advise on post-conviction options and mitigation.
Contact Our Raleigh Sex Crime Lawyers Today
A charge or investigation can reshape your life, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Raleigh sex crimes team serves Wake County, including Cary, Morrisville, Apex, Wake Forest, Knightdale, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, and Garner.
Call (919) 239-8448 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation with a Raleigh sex crime attorney.
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