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Secrets of the Texas Criminal Justice System and Your Rights
Some of the most serious criminal allegations are those involving sexual violence. These offenses can become even more serious when the federal government is involved. While the scope of federal sex crimes is limited, the available punishments upon conviction are harsh.
Most federal sex crime charges deal with alleged violence against children. Many of these involve direct sexual exploitation or transportation of children. In addition, federal law prohibits aggravated sexual abuse against an alleged victim of any age.
Regardless of the specific charges you face, a Lubbock federal sex crimes lawyer may be able to help you fight for a positive resolution. A seasoned criminal attorney could help you understand the law as it applies to your case and provide a powerful defense in court.
Federal Versus State Charges
The powers of the federal government are limited when it comes to codifying criminal activity. While states may make laws that prohibit almost any type of activity, Congress must specifically state a reason for outlawing certain behavior under federal law.
One notable example of a federal sex crime 18 U.S.C. §2251, which statute prohibits the sexual exploitation of children. The law states that it is illegal for any person to coerce, entice, incentivize, or otherwise promote the creation of child pornography. Not only does this punish people accused of creating the material, but it also can penalize parents who allow their child to participate in this activity.
Similar state laws also prohibit child pornography. As a result, it is not uncommon for defendants to face similar charges in both state and federal courts that stem from the same alleged conduct. A Lubbock federal sex crimes lawyer could explain the interplay between federal and state sex offense laws.
Important Steps in the Federal Case Process
Charges in federal court closely resemble state court cases, and a defendant enjoys the same Constitutional rights in both. For example, the process for many defendants begins with an arraignment. Here, a judge will determine the pre-trial release conditions and if bail is appropriate. A sex offense lawyer in Lubbock could help defendants at this stage by arguing for more favorable bail terms.
Attorneys also help during pre-trial hearings. These hearings are essential to argue points of law and can control what evidence a jury may hear at trial. In fact, Lubbock federal sex crimes lawyers may be able to end a case during this phase.
A Lubbock Federal Sex Crimes Lawyer Could Help During Difficult Times
The consequences for a federal sex crime conviction are always harsh. Many of these offenses carry mandatory minimum prison sentences of multiple years and some can even result in life imprisonment. Additionally, defendants may be required to as a sex offender upon conviction. For this reason, retaining a qualified defense attorney is often critical.
A Lubbock federal sex crimes lawyer could work from day one to evaluate the strength of the prosecutor’s case, examine the legality of any police work that led to your arrest, and identify realistic goals to protect your freedom. Call today to set up a consultation and begin working toward a favorable resolution of your federal sex crime charges.