If you’ve been charged with a sex crime in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to understand the charges, potential penalties, and your rights.
At Sutton and Lovette Law Office, P.C., we bring extensive experience defending clients against sex-crime allegations — fighting to protect your freedom and future.
Pennsylvania Sex Offense Laws
Pennsylvania’s Crimes Code defines a wide range of sex offenses, each carrying serious consequences.
Below are some of the most common charges:
Rape (18 Pa. C.S. § 3121)
- Definition: Sexual intercourse without consent, or with someone unable to consent (such as due to unconsciousness or mental incapacity).
- Grading: First-degree felony.
- Penalty: Up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
Sexual Assault (18 Pa. C.S. § 3124.1)
- Definition: Sexual contact without the other person’s consent.
- Grading: Second-degree felony.
- Penalty: Up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
Aggravated Indecent Assault (18 Pa. C.S. § 3125)
- Definition: Forced or coerced sexual contact, including unwanted touching.
- Grading: First- or second-degree felony, depending on the case.
- Penalty: Up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
Indecent Assault (18 Pa. C.S. § 3126)
- Definition: Unwanted sexual touching or advances.
- Grading: Misdemeanor or felony based on the severity.
- Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Statutory Sexual Assault (18 Pa. C.S. § 3122.1)
- Definition: Sexual activity with a minor under the legal age of consent (typically under 16).
- Grading: Felony.
- Penalty: Up to 20 years in prison, depending on the age difference.
Child Pornography (18 Pa. C.S. § 6312)
- Definition: Possessing, distributing, or producing child sexual abuse material.
- Grading: Felony.
- Penalty: A minimum of 5 years in prison per charge, with substantial fines.
Megan’s Law Registration Requirements
In Pennsylvania, many sex crime convictions require registration under Megan’s Law, which creates a public record of offenders.
- Registration Duration: May range from 15 years to life depending on the severity of the offense.
- Failure to Register: Can lead to additional criminal charges and penalties.
Common Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges
Every case is unique, but common legal defenses include:
- False Accusations: Accusations made out of misunderstanding, anger, or revenge.
- Consent: Evidence may show the encounter was consensual.
- Insufficient Evidence: A lack of physical evidence or credible witness testimony.
- Mistaken Identity: Being wrongly identified as the perpetrator.
A strong defense strategy can lead to charges being reduced or dismissed altogether.
Why You Need an Experienced Pennsylvania Sex Crime Defense Attorney
Sex crime charges are among the most serious — carrying the threat of long prison sentences, mandatory registry as a sex offender, job loss, and devastating personal consequences.
At Sutton and Lovette Law Office, P.C., we are committed to:
- Building a strong defense based on the facts.
- Challenging the prosecution’s evidence.
- Protecting your constitutional rights at every stage.
- Working for the best possible outcome — whether through negotiation or trial.
Don’t face this alone. You deserve aggressive representation and a fair chance at protecting your future.
Contact Sutton and Lovette Law Office, P.C. Today
If you or a loved one is facing a sex crime charge in Pennsylvania, contact Sutton and Lovette Law Office, P.C.
Schedule a confidential consultation and let our experienced defense attorneys fight for you.
Call us today or request a consultation online. Your future is too important to leave to chance.
