Columbus Sex Crime Attorneys

Being accused of a sex crime can seriously damage your reputation, and if convicted, result in imprisonment. Columbus sex crime lawyers at Yavitch & Palmer aggressively defend their clients' rights against a wide scope of sex crime allegations, which include:

Sexual crime lawyers in Columbus dispel common misconceptions

Because misinformation circulates and laws frequently change, misconceptions about sex crimes may be difficult to recognize. The following are a few examples of common misconceptions:

• Spousal rape is not a crime. Prior to the 1970s, spousal rape was not a crime. However today, under Ohio Revised Code (ORC) §2907.02, when a couple is living separate and apart, if a spouse uses force or the threat of force against the other spouse to compel sexual conduct, the act is considered rape.
• As long as the person consents, sexual conduct is not a crime. Under ORC §2907.04, consensual sex with a minor (age 13–15 and not your legal spouse) when you are 18 years or older is unlawful sexual conduct (statutory rape).
• As long as the person does not resist, rape did not occur. Under ORC §2907.02, using drugs, alcohol, or controlled substances to impair a person’s judgment and obtain sexual conduct, either surreptitiously or by deception, threat of force, or force is rape. If the individual is in a mental or physical condition that results in an inability to resist or consent, the conduct is also rape.

Effect of the internet on sex crimes

As the Information Age opens up communication channels, sexual offenders can meet victims in chat rooms, through email, or text messaging. Individuals who traffic in child pornography, or pedophiles seeking access to minors, have unprecedented opportunities—afforded by the convenience of high technology. However, so do authorities, such as the FBI. Chat room stings and email hyperlink enticement through illegal videos are used to locate offenders. Authorities can trace computers and raid the homes of those engaged in such activities.

However, locating evidence alone is not adequate for prosecution because district attorneys or United States attorneys must also prove intent to commit a sex crime on the part of the internet user. Sometimes people click without realizing what they are attempting to access.

Ohio Criminal Defense Lawyers

Sex crime charges can trigger serious consequences if convicted. Discuss allegations with a Columbus criminal attorney at Yavitch & Palmer and find out how we can protect your rights. Call our firm at 614-224-6142 or fill out the web contact form to arrange a consultation.