Virginia Sexual Assault Lawyer - Hampton Roads, VA
Key Takeaways
- Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn defends individuals accused of sex crimes in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.
- Sexual assault definitions in Virginia include a wide range of offenses, from rape and sexual abuse of minors to crimes involving digital images and prostitution.
- Accusations can lead to criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and sex offender registration, with significant consequences for personal and professional life.
- The firm emphasizes protecting clients’ rights and reputations, exploring defense strategies like challenging the accuser’s credibility.
- Prompt legal consultation is crucial to protect your rights and explore potential legal pathways, such as plea bargains and probation.
Sex crime charges or accusations can throw your life into a tailspin. There is no time to waste if you have heard rumors, suspect you may be considered guilty of a crime, or have been arrested on suspicion of a sex offense.
At Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn, PC, we are standing by to help if you need a Virginia sexual assault lawyer. We regularly help clients in the Hampton Roads area stand up for their rights and protect their futures after being charged with sex crimes. We believe in the constitutional rights of all our criminal defense clients, including the presumption of innocence.
What Is Sexual Assault in Virginia?
Sexual assault definitions in Virginia statutes include the following:
- Rape
- Sexual abuse of minors
- Indecent liberties with children
- Aggravated sexual battery and sexual battery
- Incest
- Statutory rape
- Crimes involving digital images of minors
- Prostitution and solicitation of prostitutes
If you are accused of any such actions, you may be:
- Charged with a crime
- Convicted of a crime
- Required to have your name in a sex offender registry for years
- Sued by the alleged victim(s) in a civil case
Your legal status and the negative consequences of your case may also be affected by your relationship with the accuser. If you are a teacher, counselor, health care provider, religious worker or family member, you need aggressive as well as sensitive defense. If our sex crimes defense attorneys work on your case, we will take all possible actions to protect your reputation, keep your name out of the news and otherwise safeguard your rights.
We may find evidence that your accuser’s credibility cannot be trusted. This is one example of a defense strategy that may turn your case around in your favor.
Get Your Defense Started Right Away
If you or somebody you love has been accused of sexual assault, speak to an attorney about your case today. At Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn, PC, our qualified and experienced team understands the great risks associated with sexual assault accusations, charges and convictions. We will work hard to:
- Protect your reputation
- Protect your constitutional rights
- Pursue the most promising legal pathways ahead, such as a plea bargain and probation, if appropriate
- Help you avoid a criminal record, if possible
- Help you keep your name off a sex offender registry, if possible
- Defend you in any possible civil claims against you, as well as your criminal case
Reach out to our compassionate Virginia sexual assault defense attorneys in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Southampton, Emporia, Brunswick, or Suffolk or call 757-742-6115 for quickest response.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first if I’m accused of sexual assault?
Do not contact the accuser or discuss the case with anyone but your lawyer. Avoid social media, save texts/emails, and write down a timeline and potential witnesses. Invoke your right to remain silent and request counsel immediately.
Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted in Virginia?
Many sexual offenses require registration; the tier and duration depend on the charge and outcome. Failing to register carries additional penalties. An attorney can explain whether registration applies to your specific case and strategies to avoid a registrable conviction.
Can sexual assault charges be reduced or dismissed?
Sometimes. Charges may be dropped or reduced when evidence is weak, constitutional violations exist (illegal search/interrogation), witness credibility is challenged, or favorable plea options are available. Early investigation and motion practice are critical.
What defenses are available in a sexual assault case?
Common defenses include consent, mistaken identity, false accusation, alibi, and challenging forensic or digital evidence. Your lawyer may also seek to suppress statements or evidence if your rights were violated.
Will I go to jail if I’m arrested for sexual assault?
Penalties vary by charge and facts. Some offenses are felonies with potential prison time, but pretrial release is often possible. Strong representation at the first appearance/bail hearing can impact conditions of release and case strategy.
How can a sexual assault lawyer help right away?
Your attorney can protect your rights during police contact, secure and review evidence, interview witnesses, file motions to suppress, negotiate with prosecutors, prepare you for hearings, and build a defense aimed at dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
Written By Jack T. Randall
As lifelong resident of Western Tidewater, Jack Randall is a local attorney who wants the best results for his clients. He is an experienced and aggressive attorney with focus on family law, criminal and traffic law, as well as personal injury law cases.
