Hire an Attorney for Sex Offenses in Columbus, OH

Steven S. Nolder Law Firm Can Represent You

There are numerous charges in Columbus, OH, and across the country that are considered sex offenses. It is used as an umbrella term to describe many types of crimes that are sexual in nature. Sex offenses carry some of the harshest consequences when it comes to long-term effects of the crime on your quality of life, as all sex offenders are required to register with law enforcement. Often, these registries are public, which makes it difficult for past offenders to find housing or work. This means you need a qualified sex crime attorney like Steven S. Nolder Law Firm to represent you and ensure you get a fair outcome. Please reach out to us today to discuss your case.

What Crimes are Considered Sex Offenses?

Many crimes are considered sex offenses in the state of Ohio. While all of these acts are wrong, some are far more serious than others. On the less severe end, there is indecent exposure, while the most serious sex offenses include rape, sexual assault, and child molestation. Regardless of the severity of the crime, those convicted of sex offenses are considered sex offenders and are often required to add their names to state and federal registries. Some offenders may also face restrictions on where they can live and work. For this reason, it’s essential to have a qualified legal team on your side.

Common Types of Sex Offenses

As previously mentioned, there are many crimes that are considered sex crimes, but we wanted to educate you about the types of charges we regularly see and which we often defend clients against. The two most common sex offenses in federal courts are charges involving child pornography and enticement. These cases are of high priority to both state and federal law enforcement because they involve children. Our team has experience handling all types of sex offense cases regardless of their nature. You can count on us to represent you in all of the following charges:

  • Child pornography
  • Enticement
  • Sexual assault
  • Sex trafficking
  • Rape

Possible Punishments for Child Pornography Charges

Child pornography charges can be brought against anyone who produces, receives, or possesses explicit images or videos of individuals underage. All three are crimes and are punishable in both state and federal court. Each offense is charged as a separate crime, and there are different penalties for each. For example, possession of child pornography is not considered as serious as production, and therefore holds a lesser maximum penalty. In addition, punishments can become much more severe if the person is a repeat offender with prior convictions. The punishments for each type of child pornography charges include:

  • Possession: You can be charged with possession of child pornography if you are found to possess any kind of pornography with minors. There is no minimum sentence for this charge. However, the maximum penalty is 20 years.
  • Receipt and Distribution: This charge is brought against individuals who receive child pornography and then distribute or sell it to other parties. There is a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for this charge and a maximum penalty of 20 years.
  • Production: A production charge is brought against individuals who create child pornography. These charges are considered more severe and therefore have a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years.

Note: Child Pornography offenses and the listed punishments are for federal Child Pornography offenses.

Sex Offenses Have Outrageous Sentencing Ranges

Because the guidelines used to punish sex offenses are so overly punitive, it can lead to excessive sentencing ranges. This can cause offenders to receive unjust sentences if they do not have the proper legal team. Many judges are aware of the artificially-high penalties are mandated by these overly punitive guidelines, and as such, are receptive to hearing arguments for a shorter sentence. This is an excellent example of where proper sentencing advocacy can produce fairer outcomes for clients. We can craft detailed sentencing memos in these cases, which will be tailored to the unique factual and legal issues of the case. Our team is able to advocate on your behalf and ensure you get a just sentence.

The Difference Between State & Federal Punishments

One of the problems with sex offenses is the vast difference between state and federal punishments for them. The federal government is making many of these charges a priority, and if you’re brought up on federal charges, you’ll wind up in a federal courtroom where the rules are somewhat different. Many defendants who are convicted of their first importuning charge in the state of Ohio receive probation. At the same time, a similar conviction for enticement in a federal court carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. This is a vast difference that could spell disaster for your case. Our team can help you navigate the charges against you.

Contact Us for a Consultation

If you are facing a sex offense charge, you have to ensure you hire a legal team with experience. The team at Steven S. Nolder Law Firm is here to defend you in court to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive a fair outcome. Please reach out to us today to schedule a consultation where we can discuss your case.