Sexual Assault charges in Norman carry significant consequences. From sex offender registries, social isolation, and lengthy prison sentences, the stakes are as high as can be. When you’re facing sexual assault charges in Norman, you need a team you can trust. Pierce Law Firm, P.C. has over three decades of criminal defense experience and never backs down from a challenge.
Definition of Sexual Assault Crimes
Sexual assault laws are complicated and vary by state. Oklahoma’s laws are no exception. In Oklahoma, ‘Sexual assault’ includes many sexual crimes, including rape, forcible sodomy, sexual battery, and child sexual abuse.
Rape
Oklahoma law defines rape as non-consensual sexual intercourse. “Consent” must be given freely, without coercion or force. This includes sexual intercourse with an intoxicated person, or anyone “incapable through mental illness or any other unsoundness of mind, whether temporary or permanent, of giving legal consent.” The law also defines statutory rape as sexual intercourse with a minor under 16 years old. 21 OK Stat § 1111 (2023).
Forcible Sodomy
The definition of forcible sodomy is vague under Oklahoma law. Many people think sodomy refers to anal sex, but sodomy in Oklahoma is oral sex. Forcible sodomy is non-consensual oral sex, which is a crime in Oklahoma. 21 OK Stat § 888 (2023).
Sexual Battery
Sexual battery is generally defined as “the intentional touching, mauling or feeling of the body or private parts of any person . . . Without the consent of that person.” In simpler terms, sexual battery is a term for sex crimes that fall short of rape or forcible sodomy. 21 OK Stat § 1123 (2023).
Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse encompasses sexual crimes where the victim is a minor. This includes sexual acts, exploitation of children, and child pornography. Punishments vary depending on the victim’s age and other circumstances surrounding the incident.
Potential Penalties and Consequences
A sexual assault charge in Oklahoma can lead to severe penalties and long-term consequences. Many charges carry prison sentences and fines, which vary depending on the severity of the crime. Even if you can avoid prison, you could find yourself as a registered sexual offender, which can limit your freedom in unexpected ways. It can make getting a job or finding housing incredibly difficult. Finally, the social stigma around being a convicted sex offender can be devastating. Personal and professional repercussions can last a lifetime.
Building a Strong Defense
If you find yourself with a sexual assault charge, you are not alone. We help clients get through seemingly hopeless situations and can help you, too.
A skilled defense team will evaluate your case and investigate the allegations. Depending on the facts of the case, this may include interviewing potential witnesses, analyzing physical evidence, and reviewing police records. Witnesses can be crucial in undermining the charge itself, or they can speak to your character and reputation. Physical evidence in sexual assault cases can include DNA and medical exams or reports. Electronic evidence—texts, emails, social media posts, surveillance footage—can be vital to your case. A skilled sex crimes attorney will thoroughly ensure you get all the evidence necessary to support your case.
False Accusations
In some cases, there might be a motive for a false accusation. For example, contentious custody battles or ugly divorce proceedings are common motives. A skilled defense team can help you identify these motives and prove them to the court. This can be pivotal in undermining the accusations.
Contact Us Today
The attorneys at Pierce Law Firm, P.C. take on challenging cases that others won’t, and we are here for you. Get a skilled legal team to defend you. Pierce Law Firm is the right firm for your case even in the most challenging circumstances. We have successfully defended individuals accused of sexual assault for over 30 years and have a track record of achieving successful outcomes for our clients. Contact us today to discuss your options.