Little Rock Sex Crimes Lawyer
Arrested For A Sex Crime?
A sex crime charge in Little Rock, Arkansas is one of the most serious and immediate accusations. When these accusations surface, it can feel like your reputation, career, and relationships are in danger of being ruined.
You could spend decades in prison, have to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life, and have limits on where you can live, work, and even travel.
Our experienced Little Rock sex crimes defense attorneys know that these cases need more than just legal knowledge. They also need careful planning, strategic thinking, and a strong commitment to protecting your rights and your dignity.
We help people in Arkansas fight serious sexual offense charges such as sexual assault, child sexual abuse, possession or promotion of child pornography, prostitution and solicitation, and more.
We know how prosecutors put these cases together, where the evidence is weak, and how to make defenses that will protect your future.
Every choice you make right now is important. What you say, who you talk to, and how quickly you get an experienced Little rock sex crimes defense lawyer can all affect whether you fight these charges from jail or from home, whether evidence is kept secret or made public, and, in the end, whether you can rebuild your life.
At Lemley Law DWI & Criminal Defense Lawyers, we are here to help you understand your options and start building your defense when you’re ready to take the first step toward protecting your future.
Call Lemley DWI & Criminal Defense Lawyers at 501-422-6219 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
Case Types
What Charges Do We Defend in Arkansas?
Arkansas law defines sexual offenses broadly, and prosecutors often charge the most serious offense possible based on the allegations. Understanding these charges is crucial because each carries different penalties and registration requirements.
Rape involves sexual intercourse or deviant sexual activity accomplished through forcible compulsion or with someone incapable of consent. This includes situations involving drugs, alcohol, or victims under 14 years old.
Sexual Assault covers a range of unwanted sexual contact, from touching to more serious offenses. The degree of the charge depends on factors like the victim’s age, the defendant’s relationship to the victim, and whether force was used.
Internet Sex Crimes have become increasingly common as prosecutors target online communications. These charges can arise from conversations that never led to physical contact.
Child Pornography cases often involve possession of images found on computers or phones. Prosecutors may charge each image separately, thereby significantly increasing the total number of counts.
Indecent Exposure may seem minor, but it can require sex offender registration depending on the circumstances and the defendant’s criminal history.
We also handle cases involving sex crimes with minors, online solicitation, sexual coercion, prostitution and solicitation, and more.
We handle both state and federal sex crime cases throughout Arkansas, bringing extensive courtroom experience to your defense.
Falsely accused of a sex offense? Contact our experienced Little Rock sex crime lawyers today to learn more about how we can assist.
What Are the Penalties for Sex Crimes in Arkansas?
Sex crime convictions in Arkansas carry some of the harshest penalties in the criminal justice system. Beyond prison time and fines, you’ll face mandatory sex offender registration, employment restrictions, housing limitations, and social stigma that can last a lifetime.
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- Class A Felony (Sexual Assault 1st Degree): 6 to 30 years in prison, fines up to $25,000.
- Class B Felony (Sexual Assault 2nd Degree): 5 to 20 years in prison, fines up to $15,000.
- Class C Felony (Sexual Assault 3rd Degree): 3 to 10 years in prison, fines up to $10,000.
- Class D Felony (Various offenses): Up to 6 years in prison, fines up to $10,000.
These penalties represent maximum sentences for felony charges, and even first-time offenders can face significant prison time. Judges consider factors like the victim’s age, use of force, and the defendant’s criminal history when imposing sentences.
Will You Have to Register as a Sex Offender?
Arkansas requires most people convicted of sex crimes to register as sex offenders. The registration system classifies offenders into four risk levels that determine notification requirements and restrictions.
Level 1 offenders are generally treated as lower risk and are subject to more limited registration and public notification than higher-level offenders.
Level 2 offenders must register for a designated period and are subject to moderate notification requirements.
Level 3 offenders are considered high-risk and must register for life with broad community notification.
Level 4 offenders are designated as sexually violent predators and face the most extensive restrictions.
Registration affects where you can live, work, and travel. Many housing complexes, employers, and volunteer organizations conduct background checks that will reveal your registration status.
Some offenders may petition to be removed from the registry after 15 years, but the process is complex and not guaranteed.
How Our Sex Crime Defense Attorneys Defend You
Building an effective defense starts with a thorough investigation of the prosecution’s case. We examine every piece of evidence, from police reports and witness statements to forensic evidence and digital communications.
Our goal is to identify weaknesses, inconsistencies, and constitutional violations that can lead to dismissed charges or reduced penalties.
Evidence Analysis:
We work with forensic experts to challenge DNA evidence, question the chain of custody, and expose flawed testing procedures that could have contaminated results.
Digital Forensics:
Modern sex crime cases often involve extensive digital evidence. We analyze phone records, social media communications, and computer files to uncover exculpatory evidence.
Witness Credibility:
We investigate the backgrounds and motivations of accusers and witnesses, seeking reasons they might fabricate or exaggerate allegations.
Constitutional Violations:
Police often make mistakes during investigations that violate your constitutional rights. Our Little Rock criminal defense attorneys file motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal searches or coercive interrogations.
We handle your case with complete discretion, understanding the sensitive nature of these allegations and their impact on your family and professional life.
Contact us online to speak confidentially with a defense attorney who understands what you’re facing.
What to Expect in Pulaski County Court?
The criminal justice process in Little Rock can be lengthy and complex. Understanding what happens at each stage helps reduce anxiety and allows you to make informed decisions about your case.
Arrest and Bond
After an arrest, you’ll be brought before a judge for a bond hearing once the court schedules it. The prosecutor will argue for a high bond or no bond, claiming you pose a danger to the community or flight risk. We present evidence of your ties to the community, employment history, and lack of criminal record to secure reasonable bond conditions.
Arraignment and Plea
At arraignment, the court formally reads the charges against you and asks for your plea. We always advise pleading not guilty at this stage to preserve all legal options and avoid waiving important rights.
Discovery and Motions
During discovery, we obtain all evidence the prosecution plans to use against you. This includes police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and any recordings. We then file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and challenge the admissibility of questionable testimony.
Negotiations and Hearings
We may engage in plea negotiations if it serves your interests, but we never pressure you to accept a deal. Many cases are resolved through negotiations that result in reduced charges or alternative sentencing that avoids prison time.
Trial or Alternative Resolution
While most cases don’t go to trial, we prepare every case as if it will. Our trial experience and willingness to fight give us leverage in negotiations and ensure you receive the best possible outcome.
What to Avoid Right Now?
Certain actions can severely damage your case, even if they seem harmless or natural responses to the stress you’re experiencing.
- Contacting the alleged victim: Any attempt to communicate, even through family or friends, violates your no-contact order and may result in new criminal charges.
- Posting on social media: Prosecutors scrutinize social media accounts for evidence of guilt, consciousness of guilt, or violations of bond conditions.
- Discussing your case: Only speak about your case with your attorney. Conversations with family, friends, or cellmates are not privileged and can be used against you.
- Trying to “explain” to police: Law enforcement may contact you again, hoping you’ll provide additional incriminating statements.
- Violating bond conditions: Any violation, no matter how minor, can result in immediate arrest and revocation of your bond.
Can Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Sex crime charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed entirely, but this requires immediate action and skilled legal representation. Common grounds for dismissal include insufficient evidence, constitutional violations during the investigation, and false accusations motivated by revenge or other factors.
Insufficient Evidence:
The prosecution must prove every element of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge their ability to meet this burden by carefully analyzing their evidence.
Constitutional Violations:
Police mistakes during searches, interrogations, or arrests can result in suppression of key evidence, making prosecution impossible.
False Accusations:
Unfortunately, false allegations of sexual offenses occur in various contexts, including contentious divorces, domestic violence custody battles, and relationship disputes.
Early intervention provides the best opportunity to achieve favorable outcomes. The longer you wait to hire an attorney, the more difficult it becomes to preserve evidence and identify defense strategies.
Why False Accusations of Sex Crimes Happen?
False accusations can arise from complex personal situations and have the power to destroy innocent lives. These allegations sometimes stem from misunderstandings, mental health issues, or deliberate attempts to gain an advantage in family court proceedings.
Custody Disputes:
Parents sometimes make false allegations to gain leverage in custody battles, believing it will help them obtain sole custody or supervised visitation for the other parent.
Relationship Conflicts:
Former romantic partners may fabricate allegations as revenge for perceived wrongs or to explain their own behavior to family and friends.
Misidentification:
Genuine victims sometimes identify the wrong person as their attacker, particularly in cases involving strangers or limited visibility.
We investigate these possibilities thoroughly while treating all parties with respect and dignity. Our goal is to uncover the truth, not attack victims of actual crimes.
False accusations can destroy lives. If you’ve been wrongly accused, contact Lemley DWI & Criminal Defense Lawyers for immediate help.
Skilled Sex Crime Defense Law Firm in Little Rock, Arkansas
We have defended individuals facing some of the most serious allegations of their lives. Our deep understanding of Arkansas criminal defense law, combined with extensive trial experience, gives us the tools needed to protect your rights and fight for your future.
Our offices in Little Rock, Cabot, and Searcy serve clients all over central Arkansas. Our philosophy is still simple: no matter what charges they face, everyone deserves a fair chance, good representation, and a way to move forward.
You don’t have to do this by yourself. When you need it most, we’re here to help you understand things, support you, and fight for you.
You deserve a good defense and a way to move forward. Contact us to set up your private consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Crime Defense in Arkansas
Should I Talk to Police or Investigators Without a Lawyer Present?
Never speak with law enforcement without your attorney present. Politely exercise your right to remain silent and request to speak with your lawyer immediately.
How Do I Post Bond at the Pulaski County Jail?
You can post bond by paying the full amount to the court or by hiring a bail bondsman, who will post bond for a non-refundable fee.
What Is a Level 3 Sex Offender in Arkansas?
A Level 3 sex offender is classified as high-risk to reoffend, requiring lifetime registration with broad public notification to schools, daycares, and community members.
Can I Contact the Accuser if They Reach Out to Me?
Absolutely not. Responding to contact from the alleged victim violates your no-contact order and can result in additional charges and bond revocation.
How Long Do Sex Crime Cases Take in Little Rock?
Cases typically take several months to over a year to resolve, depending on the complexity of the evidence and whether the case proceeds to trial.
Will a Plea to a Lesser Charge Still Require Registration?
Registration requirements depend on the specific charge you plead to. Some lesser offenses don’t require registration, while others do.
Can You Help Remove Me From the Registry Later?
In some cases, you may be able to petition for removal from the sex offender registry, but eligibility depends on the individual circumstances of the case.
Have Questions?
We’re available 24/7 and here to protect your rights from day one.