Washington Rape & Child Molestation Defense Lawyers
Few events are more devastating on a personal or professional scale than being wrongfully accused of a sex crime such as rape or child molestation. If you are convicted, you face a long prison sentence, plus the stigma of being classified and registered as a sex offender for the rest of your life. At the Spokane Law Offices of Christian J. Phelps, we will protect your rights and fight to clear your name.
When Your Future and Freedom Are at Risk
Contact the Law Offices of Christian J. Phelps
If you have been accused of any sex crime, you should never talk to the police until you have spoken with an attorney. Investigating officers may say they just want to give you a chance to explain your side of the accusation. However, anything you say could end up giving them the evidence they need to arrest and convict you.
Over the past fifteen years, our firm has protected the rights of those charged with a wide range of sex crimes. The stakes in these cases are extremely high, even if the alleged crime was part of a consenting relationship. The age of consent in Washington is sixteen, so any act with a person who is fifteen years of age or under is considered statutory rape. Moreover, there does not need to be actual sexual intercourse in order to be charged with a sex crime.
If you face any of the following charges, we will protect your rights:
- Rape
- Child Rape
- Date Rape
- Child Molestation
- Internet Sex Crimes
- Possession of Child Pornography
Whatever charges you face, there are defenses an experienced attorney can use to counter the evidence against you. You must challenge the veracity of the witnesses and the credibility of the evidence against you.
Two Strikes and You're Out
Washington is a two strike state for certain types of sex crimes. This means that if you are convicted for one of these offenses, you are only 1 "strike" or conviction away from a mandatory life sentence. From the moment of your arrest, you want a lawyer who understands the gravity of the situation and who will act accordingly.
Sex Offender Special Sentencing Alternative
In some cases, you may want to consider Washington's Sex Offender Special Sentencing Alternative (SOSSA). If your total sentence would be eleven years or less, SOSSA could allow you to spend up to six months in jail and serve the remainder of your sentence on probation. However, you must commit to attend three years of sex offender treatment classes and you must register as a sex offender. We will examine the strength of your case and help you determine if this is a viable option.
Contact Us
Before you answer any questions about an alleged sex crime, you want to speak with an experienced attorney. Let us communicate for you. From the start, we will do everything we can to make sure you land as softly as possible. Contact us at our Spokane office for immediate assistance.
