If you’re facing sex crime charges, getting the right sex crime defense in Pennsylvania is critical. Understanding the laws, penalties, and your rights is the first step toward protecting your future. At Sutton and Lovette Law Office, P.C., we bring extensive experience defending clients against serious 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. At Sutton and Lovette Law Office, P.C., we provide sex crime defense in Pennsylvania rooted in experience and discretion.
Why Experienced Sex Crime Defense in Pennsylvania Matters
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. Our firm has a deep understanding of sex crime defense in Pennsylvania, ensuring every case is met with diligence and discretion.
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.
