| About Criminal and Trial Law |
| Alcohol & Drug Crimes |
| Sex Crimes |
| White Collar Crimes |
| Violence & Theft Crimes |
| Federal,State & Juvenile Crime |
Sex Crimes
Since early times, there have been some forms of sexual conduct which are considered criminal or anti-social. Today states have existing laws which punish some kinds of sexual conduct, with emphasis on protecting the victims. Sex crimes can be violent or non-violent, and it can be committed with or without the victim's consent.
Rape, Sexual Assault and Child Molestation
Forcible rape and sexual molestation of minors are considered as the most serious sex crimes that carry substantial prison terms. These sex crimes cause tremendous physical and emotional harm that scar the victims throughout their lifetimes. A crime of rape is committed when a male uses force or the threat of force to have sexual intercourse with a female, against her will. It is not necessary that there is complete sexual act; minimal penetration is sufficient for conviction. Statutory rape, on the other hand, is a consensual sexual intercourse where the victim is either a child or a mentally incompetent, thus the law considers his or her consent as not legally binding.
Sexual assault is also committed by the use of force or threat of force against either a male or female victim. The act may involve penetrating the vagina, mouth or anus with a penis or any other object. Sexual assault may also involve fondling of the body of the victim, and when the victim is a minor, an accused can be tried for both child abuse and sexual assault.
Indecent Exposure
Indecent exposure or exhibitionism comprises at least one-third of all sexual crimes. Indecent exposure is committed when one displays his or her genitals in front of an audience for purposes of sexual gratification from the act. While indecent exposure is generally considered a misdemeanor in most states, the real price of conviction is the social stigma that attaches to it. You may have difficulty qualifying for a particular job, or being certified for a profession. Thus, whether it is a felony or a misdemeanor, consult a qualified lawyer if you stand accused of any sex crimes.