Sex offenses are viewed with particular contempt by the general public as well as the Massachusetts criminal justice system. Regardless of whether it is fair or not, many people who are even accused of sex crimes spend the rest of their lives treated with suspicion or mistrust. In case a person accused of a sex crime is convicted, he or she may be subjected to significant legal penalties, as well as other serious collateral consequences. Consequently, it is of the utmost importance that anyone accused of a sex crime in Massachusetts retain an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Not only can an attorney help ensure your rights are protected in any legal proceedings that may occur, but he or she can also manage the flow of information and members of the press should your case become highly publicized.
Criminal Penalties Associated with Massachusetts Sex Crimes
The criminal penalties associated with a sex offense in Massachusetts are extremely serious depending on the circumstances. For example, if the alleged victim is a child, or there was violence or the threat of violence involved in the alleged offense, the consequences can be particularly severe. Some of the criminal penalties include:
· Probation;
· Lengthy prison sentences;
· GPS monitoring;
· Court-ordered counseling or therapy.
These and other penalties a court may impose are very harsh, so it is important to discuss your options with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Registration as a Sex Offender
One of the most significant and life-altering consequences of a sex offense conviction is the requirement to register with the state as a sex offender. Some of offenses that will require one to register as sex offender include:
· Rape;
· Rape and abuse of a child;
· Drugging persons for sexual intercourse;
· Inducing a minor into prostitution;
· Kidnapping of a child;
· Aggravated rape;
· Possession of child pornography;
· Incestuous marriage or intercourse;
· Assault with intent to commit rape;
· Rape and abuse of a child.
More information about the types of offenses that result in a registration requirement can be found at the Official Website of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
For certain offenders who are required to register, information regarding one’s name, address, and offense are easily accessible to the general public on the Massachusetts sex offender registry. Anyone with an internet connection can access this database, including friends, family, potential employers, and potential romantic partners. The requirement to register can last anywhere from 20 years to the rest of an offender’s life. As a result, the collateral consequences associated with a sex offense can affect a person for years after any sentence or probation ends. Inclusion on the sex offender registry can make it extremely difficult to fully participate in society, and may affect where you are able to live and work. As a result, it is extremely important for anyone accused of a sex offense to take all steps possible to avoid a conviction.
Contact a Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
If you are facing allegations of a sex offense or any other criminal matter in Massachusetts, you should retain an attorney immediately. To schedule a free consultation with criminal defense lawyer Edward R. Molari, call our office today at (617) 942-1532.