Hartford Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers
Help when you’re facing sexual assault allegations in Hartford & Manchester CT
If you’re accused of a sexual assault or sex crime, it’s tough to know what the next step is. The entire legal process is intimidating and confusing – from the accusation to the arrest to the arraignment – and you may not know who to talk to or what to do. What you should, and probably do, know is that the charges against you are serious and should not be taken lightly, no matter what the truth or the circumstances are.
The Hartford sex crime defense attorneys at Barry, Taylor & Levesque, LLC provide strong and aggressive representation if you’re facing sexual assault charges and allegations. We understand the consequences of a sexual assault conviction on your record and we work to protect not only your freedom, but also your personal and professional reputation. When we work with you, our goal is to defend you against these charges, stand by your side and strive for the very best possible outcome for your case. Call us today.
Definition and degrees of sexual assault
According to Connecticut state law, sexual assault can be charged in the first, second, third or fourth degree. Each degree carries different penalties (with first-degree being the most serious) and various factors can aggravate a charge or add separate offenses, such as kidnapping or abduction. Whether you are accused of sexual assault in the first degree or the fourth degree, legal representation is a must.
Sexual Assault in the First Degree
First-degree sexual assault (Connecticut G.S. 53a-70), also called rape, occurs when an individual engages in intercourse by the use of force or the threat of force, or when an individual engages in intercourse with a person who is incapacitated and unable to consent. First-degree sexual assault is typically charged as a Class A felony if the victim is under 16 and the perpetrator uses force or threat of force, or if the victim is under 13 and the perpetrator is at least two years older. Otherwise it is a Class B felony.
Sexual Assault in the Second Degree
Second-degree sexual assault (Connecticut G.S. 53a-71) happens when an individual takes advantage of their position of power over an individual to engage in sexual relations with them. Examples of this power dynamic might include a teacher/student, coach/player, doctor/patient or any situation where the perpetrator is older or more powerful than the victim, or if the victim is between the ages of 13 and 16 and the accused is more than three years older than the victim. Sexual assault in the second degree can be a Class B felony, depending on the victim’s age. Otherwise it’s generally a Class C felony.
Sexual Assault in the Third Degree
Third-degree sexual assault (Connecticut G.S. 53a-72a) is when an individual engages in sexual conduct, other than intercourse, with an individual through the use of force or threat. This can include things like touching, fondling, groping or other forms of unwanted sexual contact. Third-degree sexual assault can be a Class C felony depending on the victim’s age or if a firearm was used to commit the act. Otherwise it’s generally charged as a Class D felony.
Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree
Fourth-degree sexual assault (Connecticut G.S. 53a-73a) occurs when an individual engages in any kind of deliberate and unwanted sexual contact with another person. Depending on the situation and circumstances, this can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, or a Class D felony.
Penalties for a sexual assault conviction in Hartford
The consequences for a sexual assault conviction can be extremely harsh. Now more than ever, prosecutors are looking for harsher penalties for sex offenders, making it even more important to have strong legal counsel on your side. Even the mere accusation of a sexual assault can have widespread repercussions on your personal and professional life. We work discreetly and tenaciously to clear your name and your record.
Here in Connecticut, a Class A felony conviction can lead to fines of up to $20,000 and from 25 to 60 years in prison, depending on the circumstances. A Class B felony is punishable with fines of up to $15,000 and up to 20 years in prison. Class C felonies can lead to up to 10 years in prison with fines of up to $10,000, and Class D felonies can include fines of up to $5,000 and up to five years in jail.
Additionally, if you are convicted of a sexual assault, you will be required to register as a sex offender.
Your Hartford criminal defense lawyer can explain the charges against you in greater detail, as well as every potential outcome to your case, so you can feel prepared, strong and informed as you enter the judicial process.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
If you are convicted of a sexual assault or other sex crime, you will likely be required to register on the Connecticut Sex Offender Registry. Once you’re listed on the registry, you must follow all instructions regarding updating and renewing your information, or risk facing additional penalties. When we work with you, our goal is to keep you off this registry entirely.
Generally there are three types of individuals who are at risk of facing sex offender registration if convicted of sexual assault charges:
- Those convicted of a sexual offense against a minor will usually register for 10 years for a first offense, and then lifetime registration for any subsequent offenses
- Those convicted of nonviolent sexual offenses will register for 10 years for a first offense, and then lifetime registration for any subsequent offenses
- Those convicted of violent sexual offenses will register for a lifetime
As you can see, sexual offenses and assaults are taken very seriously by the courts and can affect your life for decades – or forever. The attorneys at Barry, Taylor & Levesque, LLC provide aggressive and strategic defense to protect your name and your freedom.
Tenacious Hartford sexual assault defense attorneys
We understand the delicate nature of sexual assault crimes. They are life altering and traumatic for everyone involved. Whatever the situation, the criminal defense attorneys at Barry, Taylor & Levesque, LLC won’t let you face these accusations alone. Our seasoned lawyers can help your clear your name and face a brighter future without a conviction on your record. We provide hard-hitting legal representation when you need it. Reach out today. We’re located right off I-84 or I-384 in Manchester. To schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers in Hartford or Manchester, please call 860-649-4400 or fill out our contact form.