Sex Offenses in Westport
Sex offenses in Westport—or even an allegation—can immediately harm your reputation and career. If you face a sex offense charge, contact an attorney at Mark Sherman Law for a confidential consultation. We will explain the charges, potential consequences, and your legal options.
Degrees of Sexual Assault
The Connecticut penal code categorizes most Westport sex-related offenses as a form of Sexual Assault. Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §§ 53a-70 through 53a-73a define four degrees of Sexual Assault with the following parameters:
- Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree (C.G.S. § 53a-73a)—an offense that occurs when someone engages in unlawful sexual contact without the use or threat of force with a person who, under the circumstances, did not or cannot legally consent;
- Sexual Assault in the Third Degree (C.G.S. § 53a-72a)—an offense that occurs when someone compels unlawful sexual contact through the use or threat of force;
- Sexual Assault in the Second Degree (C.G.S. § 53a-71)—an offense that occurs when someone engages in unlawful sexual intercourse without the use or threat of force with a person who, under the circumstances, cannot legally consent; and
- Sexual Assault in the First Degree (C.G.S. § 53a-70)—an offense that occurs when someone compels unlawful sexual intercourse through the use or threat of force.
Penalties for these offenses vary based on the complainant’s age, the presence or use of a firearm, and other aggravating factors. Courts apply these statutes to offenses involving sex that arise locally, and our attorneys evaluate facts against these elements to advise you.
How Does State Law Address Other Types of Sex Crimes?
Westport criminal courts usually treat offenses of a sexual nature as a variant of Sexual Assault under the statutes defined above. For example, prosecutors may charge statutory rape—sexual contact or intercourse with a person under the age of consent—as different degrees of Sexual Assault depending on the ages of the parties involved and additional facts.
When cases involve the molestation or sexual abuse of a child, prosecutors often proceed under the Sexual Assault statutes. In some circumstances, they may also include a charge for violation of C.G.S. § 53-21 (Risk of Injury to a Child). A qualified lawyer can assess the alleged conduct, explain the likely charging path, and plan a defense strategy during a private meeting.
Contact a Westport Attorney for Help Contesting Allegations of Sexual Assault
Act now to protect yourself—legally and personally—if you face sexual assault criminal charges. Allegations alone can damage your reputation for years, and sex crime convictions often bring felony penalties, including multiyear imprisonment and lifetime sex offender registration requirements.
The attorneys at Mark Sherman Law have experience handling cases involving sex offenses in Westport. Call us today to discuss your options, or visit our Avvo profile to read feedback from our 300+ past clients.