McLean Sex Offense Lawyers

Dedicated Sex Offense Attorneys for Clients in McLean, Virginia

The damaging effects of a sex crime conviction in Virginia can go far beyond a prison sentence. If you are convicted of certain sex crimes in the commonwealth, you could be branded as a sex offender, a label that carries a severe stigma. If you have been charged with one of these crimes, a McLean sex offense attorney can stand up for your rights in court and advise you of your options to fight the charge.

When seeking legal representation for sex crime defense, you should settle for nothing less than a highly competent, knowledgeable legal advocate. At Salvado Law Offices, we have decades of experience representing clients across various areas of criminal defense, including allegations of sex crimes. We can help you respond to these serious allegations and prepare a defense on your behalf.

How Is Rape Prosecuted in Virginia?

The crime of rape is a grave offense in Virginia. You can be charged with this offense for having non-consensual sexual intercourse with another person through the use of force, threats, or intimidation, or by taking advantage of the complaining witness's physical or mental incapacity. Intercourse with a child under 13 is also considered rape under state law.

If you are convicted of rape, you could be sentenced from anywhere from five years to life in prison. However, in some circumstances, you could face strict mandatory minimum sentences depending on the victim's age.

Defending against a rape charge requires an in-depth legal strategy that factors in the specifics of your case. At Salvado Law Offices, we can explore different possible defenses, such as challenging whether the prosecution has enough evidence to prove that you committed the crime.

Charges of Prostitution and Solicitation

The practice of prostitution—that is, buying and selling sexual favors—is outlawed in Virginia. The act of prostitution itself and soliciting a prostitute are both punishable as Class 1 misdemeanors, carrying a sentence of up to a year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. However, if you are accused of soliciting a minor prostitute, you could face felony charges.

Individuals suspected of running a prostitution business will also face harsher penalties. Knowingly receiving a prostitute's earnings is a crime known as pandering, and it is a Class 4 felony that carries a maximum of 10 years in prison and a minimum of two years.

You may be able to defend against a charge of prostitution or solicitation if you can demonstrate that there was no intent to commit a crime. If the prosecution cannot prove that you knowingly offered to exchange money for a sexual act or vice versa, the case against you could be severely weakened.

Penalties for Possessing Child Pornography in Virginia

If you are accused of knowingly possessing an illegal depiction of a minor in Virginia, you could face years in prison on a conviction, in addition to mandatory registration as a sex offender. By itself, possession of child pornography is a Class 6 felony, which may be punished by one to five years in prison. You will face enhanced penalties if you reproduce or distribute any child pornography in your possession, carrying up to 20 years in a state correctional facility.

There are some exceptions to prosecution under this crime. Possession of the illegal material may be permitted for a "bona fide medical, scientific, governmental, law-enforcement, or judicial purpose" for certain professionals like attorneys, psychologists, social workers, and law enforcement agents.

Meet With a McLean, VA Sex Offense Attorney

At Salvado Law Offices, our McLean, Virginia sex crime defense lawyers are ready to provide you with involved representation and counsel. From the beginning of your case to the end, we will do everything we can to protect you from lasting consequences. Call us at 703-379-9446 or contact us online for a free consultation.