Being charged with a sexual assault violation is one of the most severe crimes in Oklahoma. These charges are often the direct cause of a survivor stating that they did not give their permission for a sexual encounter or act to occur. Below is a brief overview of sexual assault and the types of crimes that within this crime classification.
Sexual assault defined
Sexual assault is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of forced touches or acts performed on a person without their full expressed consent. Understanding consent in sexual assault cases is imperative in these criminal defense cases. Without clear consent, there is the ability to have the at-fault party charged criminally for their conduct.
Categories of sexual assault
There are a number of categories of sexual assault, and many jurisdictions or areas of the country will have different charges tied to a specific type of sexual assault. Types of sexual assault include:
• Rape
• Attempted rape
• Unwanted sexual touching
• Unwanted sexual penetration
These types of assaults are often charged as a felony or a very serious crime. The criminal justice system in the U.S. advocates that every defendant should have access to a compelling and competent defense. Therefore, if you find yourself charged with sexual assault, reaching out to a lawyer who can work on your behalf is vital to your criminal defense. They can help you better understand your legal options and advocate on your behalf.
Sexual assault charges are severe crimes, and facing such devastating charges can be life-changing. Working with an experienced attorney in criminal defense and understanding the legal requirements of consensual sexual encounters can make all the difference in defending yourself.