Consequences of Sex Crime Allegations
Being accused of a sex crime is horrific. If convicted, you face a very lengthy prison sentence and possible lifetime registration as a sexual offender. Your life and reputation are in jeopardy of being completely destroyed. A sex crime conviction will follow you the rest of your life. It is vital that you contact a highly skilled criminal defense lawyer if you are facing a sex crime.
As a top-rated sex crimes attorney, Justin Shepherd knows how to build a strong, aggressive defense!
Building and Presenting a Strong and Aggressive Defense
Attorney Shepherd leaves no stone unturned during case preparation. Building a defense involves utilizing investigators to locate and speak with witnesses, conduct research, and perform background checks on potential witnesses. Frequently, the firm's investigation begins where law enforcement's investigation stopped.
Common Defenses and Raising Reasonable Doubt
Each sex case presents a unique fact pattern. The defense is constructed based on the particular nuanced facts presented. At the very outset, Attorney Shepherd reminds the jury that the State bears the burden of proving, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a sexual assault occurred. Attorney Shepherd will often argue that no sexual assault occurred whatsoever and that the alleged victim lacks credibility. For example, perhaps the alleged victim has provided inconsistent statements to numerous people (said one thing to the police and another thing to a friend). Perhaps the alleged victim told one version to the police, one version to friends, and plastered yet a 3rd version of events all over social media. Attorney Shepherd is skilled at raising reasonable doubt.
Consent and Motive Challenges
Consent serves as a defense to certain sexual assault allegations where physical contact was consensual. Allegations may arise after the fact due to regret, attempts to conceal an affair from a partner, or influence from parents and peers who convince an individual that an offense occurred when it did not.
Challenging Forensic and Electronic Evidence
Sometimes, stranger sexual assault cases involve the use of photo lineup or ‘show-up’ identification methods or involve the discovery, collection, and use of scientific evidence such as DNA or fiber analysis. Other times, aspects of a sexual assault investigation may consist of law enforcement searching cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices and/or associated records that place a suspect at a certain point at a certain time. A skilled lawyer will cast doubt on the scientific or forensic evidence.
Types of Sex Offenses Handled
Attorney Shepherd represents individuals facing various sex crime charges, including:
Aggravated Felonious Sexual Assault- Felonious Sexual Assault
- Statutory Rape
- Indecent Exposure
- Prostitution
