Child Sex Crime Defense Lawyers in Jefferson City

Defending Against Child Sex Crime Allegations

We recommend bookmarking this page for easy reference.

Facing allegations of a sex crime involving a minor is an extremely serious situation, and it's one that can have devastating effects on your career, personal life, and future. The criminal penalties are severe, and there are lifelong repercussions if you're convicted of a serious sex crime.

At Loraine Law Center, we understand the gravity of Missouri sex crimes allegations and the importance of prompt, assertive legal representation. If you're accused or under investigation for any sexual offense against a child in the Jefferson City MO area, it's crucial to act decisively to protect your rights and reputation.

A child sex crime defense attorney in Jefferson City, MO, will evaluate your case and talk to you about your potential defense options and next steps. You can be assured that anything you say will be kept confidential.

Schedule an initial consultation today to get started. Let our firm guide you through the legal process.

About Kyle Loraine

Representing Clients in Jefferson City, Missouri 

As the founder of Loraine Law Center, Kyle Loraine's experience as a former prosecutor provides him with unique insights into the criminal justice system. He knows how the government puts together criminal cases and what strategies the prosecution typically relies on in sex crimes cases. Kyle's comprehensive understanding of how the government operates is invaluable in crafting effective defense strategies for those accused of serious sex offenses.

What Are Missouri's Laws For Child Sex Offenses?

Each state has its own statutes for sex crimes, including what constitutes a crime, whether it's a misdemeanor or felony, what the potential sentence is, and whether there can be any aggravating factors that can lead to enhanced penalties.

Our firm is dedicated to defending clients against a variety of child sex crime allegations, including:

  • Child Molestation
  • Statutory Rape
  • Statutory Sodomy
  • Online Child Exploitation
  • Child Pornography
  • Rape
  • Sexual Misconduct Involving a Child
  • Sexual Contact with a Student
  • Sexual Abuse of a Child

If you have questions about your charges or what your options are for defense, sex crimes attorneys can provide answers and ensure you have the information you need as you move through the criminal justice system. At Loraine Law Center, we're not afraid to take on these types of cases, and we've successfully helped countless clients through similar charges.

Our firm is committed to representing clients and fighting for their best interests.

Get Started

Missouri's Age of Consent Laws

Consent is often a key factor in sex crimes cases. In many situations, the defendant's argument is that the interaction was consensual, but for this to be true, the other party must meet the age of consent. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17 years. This means that an adult could face statutory rape charges for engaging in sexual intercourse with someone under 17, even if the minor consented or initiated the act. This can also be true even if the defendant didn't know the other party was a minor or was told that the person was older.

A person under 17 cannot legally give consent to sexual activities. If your charges involve another person under the age of 17, it's critical that you talk with an attorney as soon as possible. You could be facing serious charges and life-changing penalties, and getting a lawyer involved early in the process can help protect everything you hold dear.

Kyle Loraine, Missouri Child Sex Crimes Attorney
Get Started

What Are the Legal Penalties of a Child Sex Crimes Conviction in Missouri?

Missouri law allows for those convicted of sex offense charges to be sentenced to time in jail or prison and substantial fines.

Sex Offender Registration in Missouri 

Depending on the type and seriousness of the offense, you may also be required to register as a sex offender. This can mean that your information is permanently on a public record indicating that you were convicted of a sex offense, and you may also be required to reregister on a regular basis to ensure that law enforcement has your most up-to-date information.

Specific Restrictions 

In some cases, the court may also impose specific restrictions on where those convicted of a sex offense can live or work. This is common for violent offenses or those that involve special victims, such as minors. You may not be allowed within a certain distance of schools, playgrounds, or other places where children often are.

Modified Parental Rights 

Being convicted of a sex offense may also result in changes to your parental rights and access to your children. It's not uncommon for the courts to award supervised visitation to parents who are convicted sex offenders, especially if the actions involved children and the court believes the offender's children could also be at risk. In the most severe cases, you could have your parental rights stripped entirely.

It's clear that the potential penalties for a sex crimes conviction are severe and can affect every area of your life. And this is just one reason why it's so important to have an experienced sex crimes lawyer fighting for you when you're facing these allegations.

Why Do You Need a Dedicated Legal Representation?

Allegations of sex crimes against minors often arise from misunderstandings, false accusations, or convoluted circumstances. It's also possible for minors to make false allegations as a way to lash out if they are going through issues such as their parents divorcing or other difficulties. These cases can involve complex "he said, she said" scenarios, but the state must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It's important to remember that, as a defendant, you don't have to prove that you're innocent.

Your attorney just has to demonstrate that there is a reasonable amount of doubt about the circumstances. Having a competent criminal defense attorney like Kyle Loraine can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Book an Initial Consultation With Our Child Sex Crimes Lawyer Today

If you live in Jefferson City, Cole County, or the surrounding area and have been charged with a child sex crime, Loraine Law Center can help. For a confidential consultation, contact our Jefferson City office at (573) 284-3048. Let us use our legal expertise to ensure your side of the story is heard and your rights are fiercely protected.