Sex Offences

Sexual offences are very serious crimes and the potential consequences are severe and long lasting if you are convicted.

Good, experienced criminal defence representation is really important from the very beginning if you are being investigated or have been arrested in connection with sex offence allegations.

We have s a team of highly rated and highly experienced criminal lawyers, based across a number of London offices and others around the country Most of our criminal lawyers are Duty Solicitor qualified.

Arrested or charged with a sex offence – we can help

If you’ve been arrested or charged with a sexual offence, we have experienced criminal defence lawyers who can represent you including dealing with :;

• Police Station representation - experienced legal advice is key before providing any statements or participating in interviews. You have the right to have a legal representative present.If you are charged, applying for bail if possible

• Court Appearance and Plea - your case may be heard at either the Magistrates' Court or the Crown Court. We will guide you on the best course of action.

• Trial Process and Defence Strategy - we will build a robust defence strategy, including challenging prosecution evidence and advocating for your innocence.

• Sentencing and Consequences - if found guilty, the severity of the sentence depends on various factors. We will advocate for the most favourable outcome.

Types of Sexual Offences in the UK

The Sexual Offences Act 2003 details a number of sexual offences. The most common offences include :-

• Rape - the most serious type of sex offence, with the key aspects being penetration and that consent was lacking.

• Sexual Assault - involves contact such as touching or groping.

• Child Sexual Abuse - where the victim is under 18; the offence can either involve physical contact or exposure to sexual images.

• Indecent Images & Photographs – it is illegal to take, make, possess, or distribute indecent images of children, including photographs and digital images.

• Prostitution – the offences in this area can include include public soliciting, managing a brothel, or encouraging prostitution for financial gain.

• Obscene Pornography - illegal images containing extreme violence or those disclosed without consent.

Consent and Reasonable Belief

Consent is often a crucial defence in sexual offence cases. Reasonableness depends on evidence of steps taken to ascertain consent.

Possession of Indecent Images

Possession of indecent images in England and Wales is governed by the Protection of Children Act 1978 and the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

It is a criminal offence to take, permit to be taken, distribute, show, possess, or publish indecent photographs of children. Sentencing is very variable, from community orders to imprisonment possible. Defences include having a legitimate reason for possession, not knowing the image was indecent, and not having seen the image.

The maximum penalty can be up to 10 years imprisonment for the most serious cases.

Protecting Your Reputation and Privacy

Accusations can significantly impact your reputation. It's important to protect your privacy throughout the legal process:

• Privacy - we will work to protect your identity and privacy as much as possible.

• Employment and Disclosure – we can deal with employment law aspects if you are charged.