Sexual Offences
Any criminal allegation made against an individual causes a significant degree of distress, however, this is perhaps more so if the allegation is one that is sexual in nature.
Just being investigated and/or charged with an offence can result in an individual’s reputation, relationships, employment, and family being placed under threat. As a result, every individual should be guided through the process by a specialist.
There are a significant number of ‘sexual offences’, ranging from the possession, creation, or distribution of images.
Offences that are deemed to fall under the category of ‘Grooming’.
Offences that involve ‘sexual assault’, such as ‘Rape’, and ‘Sexual Touching’ etc.
There are a significant number of sexual offences, including but not limited to:
- Rape
- Sexual Touching
- Causing or Inciting a number of offences
- Abuse of a position of trust
- Prostitution or Pornography
- Indecent Images of Children
- Revenge Porn
- Extreme Images
There are a number of offences within those broad categories, dependent upon the age of the victim, and any position that may or may not be held by the individual alleged to be responsible for the offence.
Further, particularly in terms of possession of images, be they indecent by virtue of an individual’s age, or deemed to be extreme pornography, offences can be committed without there necessary being an intention to possess such images.
This is particularly relevant given the advent of technology and the increasing use of instant message applications.
An image that is shared through such an application and received by an individual, even if that individual did not solicit or request such an image, may give rise to an offence being committed.
Further to the offences itself, upon conviction and sentence, issues may arise regarding whether an individual is subject to ‘Notification Requirements’ more commonly referred to as the Sex Offenders Register, and if subject to such requirements, for how long.
Other ancillary issues fall to be considered, such as whether there will be an application for a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), and if so, the terms of the same, and whether they can be justified.
As can be seen from this mere snapshot, sexual offences are complex, they are traumatic for all concerned, and can affect every facet of a suspects life.
It is essential that specialists are instructed, and at an early stage in proceedings, to not just deal with investigation and possible prosecution of the offences alleged, but the wider implications.
Apex lawyers can be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Our practice doesn’t stop, nor does our representation stop, as arrest can happen at any time.
If you, a family member, or a friend thinks that they may need advice
Do not hesitate to call our office on: 0116 299 1999
Or for the 24 hour Police station number: 0794 902 0809
Apex lawyers can be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Our practice doesn’t stop, nor does our representation stop, as arrest can happen at any time.
If you, a family member, or a friend thinks that they may need advice
Do not hesitate to call our office on: 0116 299 1999
Or for the 24 hour Police station number: 0794 902 0809