Defend Against Sexual Assault Allegations in Cumming
What Is Sexual Assault?
Unlike the sexual assault laws of many other states, “sexual assault” in Georgia law is not synonymous with rape. Instead, sexual assault involves a charge of someone with supervisory or disciplinary authority over another person initiating sexual contact. This includes those in a student/teacher relationship, which is likely the most common violation but also covers many other official relationships and associations.
Have you been charged with sexual assault in Georgia? Contact me, a sex crimes defense attorney, at (678) 829-2826, or fill out my online contact form for a swift reply.
Sexual Assault Charges: Who Has Disciplinary Authority?
- School staff may not have sexual contact with students, including teachers, principals, assistant principals, or other school administrators
- Probation or parole officer over a parolee
- Law enforcement agency employee and a person detained or otherwise in custody
- Psychotherapist and patient
- Hospital employee and a patient being treated
- Correctional institution employee and inmates
What are the Penalties for Sexual Assault?
Punishment for sexual assault, usually a felony charge, can land you in prison for decades, in addition to being slapped with fines which may be up to 6-figures. The consent of the victim is not a valid defense. There are enhanced penalties for a sexual assault perpetrated against a child under the age of 16, as well. Many who are convicted of sexual assault must adhere to a lifelong requirement of registering as a sex offender and having their name visible on a public database for life.
What Is the Difference Between Sexual Assault and Sexual Battery?
Per Georgia state law, as opposed to sexual assault, sexual battery is a charge of intentional physical contact with another person’s intimate body parts without their consent. Sexual battery may be “aggravated” if the victim’s sexual organs or anus were penetrated by a foreign object, without consent. Sexual battery is almost always a felony, and first convictions are punishable by prison time, probation for life, and required sex offender registration for life. Some defendants are charged with both sexual assault and sexual battery for the same crime.
Immediate Legal Support for Sexual Assault Charges in Cumming
Sexual assault and sexual battery are very serious criminal offenses and require the attention of a skilled criminal defense attorney to combat the charges. As a knowledgeable sex crimes lawyer, I encourage you to contact me today to help strategize a defense for your case. Consultations are confidential and free.
Charged with sexual assault, battery, or another sex crime? I accept calls 24/7! Contact Richman Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation or call (678) 829-2826.