Lexington Sex Crime Lawyer

Lexington Sex Crime Attorney

Being accused and convicted of a sex crime can affect the entire trajectory of a person’s life. Even if you are not convicted, the accusation alone can devastate your reputation. A Lexington sex crime lawyer can help you if you are facing sex crime charges in Lexington, North Carolina. Seeking legal counsel can make you feel more confident in your defense.

Why Choose Us

The criminal defense attorneys at LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC can defend you against your sex crime charges. We have offices in Winston-Salem and Greensboro, and we pride ourselves on helping individuals who are facing criminal charges, no matter their severity. Our team has extensive trial and litigation experience in North Carolina, and we are prepafred to advocate for you both inside and outside the courtroom.

Common Sex Crimes in North Carolina

Sex crimes and their criminal classifications are codified under Chapter 14 of the North Carolina General Statutes. The most serious sex crimes include first-degree rape, and production of child pornography. The following are other sex crimes prosecuted in North Carolina:

• Internet sex crimes
• Sexual exploitation
• Indecent exposure
• Online solicitation of a minor
• Second-degree rape
• Statutory rape
• Sexual Battery

These offenses can result in criminal charges ranging from a Class A1 misdemeanor to a Class B1 felony. A skilled criminal defense attorney from our firm can help you determine which legal defenses apply to your case. If it is possible that an individual fabricated what happened, any witness statements can be scrutinized by your lawyer. It is also important to consider evidence such as text messages, voicemails, and video footage related to the incident.

The Legal Consequences of Being Convicted of a Sex Crime in Lexington, North Carolina

Individuals who are accused of sex crimes in Lexington risk severe penalties if they are convicted. The following are some of the possible consequences you may face if you are convicted of a sex offense in North Carolina:

• Disqualification for federal student aid
• Employment termination
• Revocation of your driver’s license
• Electronic monitoring
• Required registration on the North Carolina sex offender registry
• A period of incarceration based on the charge

Assessing these realities should prompt anyone facing a sex crime charge to seek out legal representation. The penalties associated with these types of offenses carry long-term effects that can restrict a defendant’s ability to obtain stable housing and employment. Also, psychological stress may contribute to increased rates of depression and anxiety.

Hire a Sex Crime Lawyer

Making the decision to hire a sex crimes lawyer can be a turning point in your case. Although facing the reality of losing your liberty can be devastating, it is essential that you focus on pursuing every defense option available to you under the law. A skilled criminal defense attorney can make you aware of your legal rights, how to enforce them, and what you can do to develop a sound defensive strategy.

Individuals facing sex crime charges in Lexington may be accused of committing an offense like indecent exposure in a public space, such as Finch Park, High Rock Lake Blueway, and Boone’s Cave Park. It is necessary to ascertain if any witnesses observed the conduct of which you are being accused.

Sex Crime Statistics in North Carolina

Patients who are female comprise 89% of sexual violence emergency department visits in North Carolina. One in five women in North Carolina has been sexually assaulted at some point in their lives. In 2024, approximately 27,864 registered sex offenders resided in North Carolina.

FAQs

What Are the Laws for Sex in North Carolina?

The laws for sex in North Carolina generally revolve around the age of consent, which is sixteen under North Carolina General Statute § 14-27.25. However, the state provides exceptions for age gaps of four years or less. It is a felony under North Carolina law for an older adult to have sex with a minor under the age of sixteen. North Carolina also prohibits prostitution and forcible sex offenses.

Do Sex Offenders Have to Notify Their Neighbors in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, sex offenders do not have to notify their neighbors in person that they are on the sex offender registry. Law enforcement enables members of the public to access the North Carolina sex offender registry. Also, many towns and cities provide community notification services if a registered sex offender moves into a specific area of the state of North Carolina.

Is Sodomy Illegal in North Carolina?

Sodomy is not effectively illegal in North Carolina for consenting adults. The U.S. Supreme Court case Lawrence v. Texas struck down many sodomy laws throughout the country. North Carolina still has a “crimes against nature” statute codified under North Carolina General Statute § 14-177; however, this law only applies to acts with minors, non-consensual acts, and acts in public.

What Kind of Job Can a Sex Offender Have in North Carolina?

When assessing what kind of job a sex offender can have in North Carolina, it is important to consider occupations involving construction, warehousing, manufacturing, and food service. Also, jobs related to manual labor, trades, and janitorial work are common fields in which sex offenders can find work. Positions at animal shelters may also be performed by sex offenders.

Contact LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC Today

Many potential clients react with fear and trepidation when they learn they are being charged with a sex crime. It is important to seek out legal representation as soon as possible if you are accused of a sexual offense. Our team has experience examining evidence and developing defenses so clients can enforce their legal rights.

If you are seeking a sex crimes lawyer in North Carolina, contact us today to schedule a free consultation during which we can review the facts of your case. Our team of criminal defense attorneys can help you determine the most effective defense based on your case details and scrutinize the evidence the prosecution has against you.