How Does It Affect Me If I Am Charged With a Sexual Offence in Calgary?
Sexual offences are punished severely due to the seriousness of the crime. Addressing sexual offences involves legal processes, law enforcement efforts, victim support, rehabilitation and public awareness. If you’re charged with a sexual offence, it’s wise to consult with a Calgary sexual assault lawyer immediately. Below, we’ll discuss how these charges can affect your future.
What Are Sexual Offences?
Sexual offences encompass a range of actions such as kissing, groping, grabbing, unwanted sexual invitations and intercourse without legal consent. Charges are determined by the nature of the actions and the intentions of the person involved while considering the consent and age of the victim. Sexual offences can include but are not limited to:
- any unwanted sexual touching, kissing or intercourse
- engaging, forcing, inviting or encouraging sexual activity with a person under 16. Silence or passivity during a sexual confrontation is not equivalent to consent.
- solicitation of sexual services, whether through prostitution or the use of pornographic images and videos
- secretly observing or recording someone or distributing intimate visual recordings of them without their consent
- committing a sexual assault using a weapon or causing physical harm
- producing, distributing or possessing sexually explicit materials involving a person under 18
What Happens After You’ve Been Charged?
When a sexual offence is reported, the police are required to investigate the allegations. Investigators gather evidence and build a case by interviewing the victim, accused and any witnesses.
If you are arrested, your DNA will be taken, and you will be photographed and fingerprinted. If there is property relevant to the case, like laptops, phones or other items, they may be confiscated during your arrest. It is wise to engage the services of an experienced sexual assault lawyer in Calgary as soon as possible, as they will guide you through the process Smoothly And Help You Make Informed Decisions.
Sentencing and Convictions
The penalties for sexual assault vary depending on the severity of the charges. They can result in hefty fines and even life imprisonment. Conviction for sexual offences often incorporates rehabilitation and treatment into the justice process. Court-ordered counselling, therapy or participation in sex offender treatment programs reduce the risk of reoffending and address underlying factors that may have led to the offence.
Additionally, public awareness plays an essential role in preventing sex-based crimes. Under Canada’s Sexual Offender Information Registry Act, anyone convicted of a sexual offence must register, in person, on the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) within seven days of conviction or release from prison. The NSOR is a vital tool that helps law enforcement agencies monitor the activities of convicted sex offenders within the community. Convicted sex offenders are required to re-register annually and notify the NSOR within seven days of any changes to their name or address.
Impact on Employment and Education
Sexual offence charges can significantly affect a person’s employment and educational prospects. Individuals can face suspension, termination or restricted access to certain professions. The impact varies depending on individual circumstances, the profession and steps toward rehabilitation and personal growth. Your sexual assault lawyer can advise you on support services and help mitigate the potential long-term consequences.
Your Sexual Assault Lawyers In Calgary
Sexual offences carry significant consequences; however, it is crucial to be optimistic. The legal system is designed to ensure fairness and rehabilitation. The experienced criminal defence lawyers at Muenz Criminal Law can help you understand the nature of the charges, the legal process, potential sentencing outcomes and future impact. They can provide the necessary tools to get through this challenging situation.
Complete our contact form or call 403-543-6666 for a free and confidential consultation.