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Sexual Assault Lawyers in Melbourne - Rape & Sex Offences Law Firm
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The sexual assault lawyers Melbourne trusts
If you're facing sexual offence charges in Melbourne, securing the right legal representation is crucial. Haitch Legal stands out as a trusted firm, offering comprehensive legal services for individuals accused of sexual offences. Their team of experienced sexual assault lawyers in Melbourne provides dedicated support to navigate the complexities of the legal system.
The choice of obtaining legal representation is of utmost importance if you find yourself in Melbourne facing charges of sexual offences. Haitch Legal is a firm one can trust, giving full acknowledgement to the legal needs of people charged with sexual offences, and at the heart of it are experienced sexual assault lawyers who have dedicated themselves to helping you through the overwhelming and difficult situations of the legal system.
Are you suspected of or charged with a sexual offence? Call 03 8590 8370 to speak with one of our expert criminal lawyers now for quality legal advice and representation.
Best Sexual Assault Defence Lawyers in Melbourne for Serious Charges:
If you've been charged with rape or another sexual offence, you should seek expert legal advice as soon as possible. Sex offences are considered very serious in Melbourne, and if you are found guilty of your alleged crime, it can have a significant impact on the rest of your life. Haitch Legal has built a reputation for delivering robust defence strategies in serious sexual offence cases, with experienced sexual assault lawyers guiding clients through the legal process in Melbourne.
With years of experience in defending a diverse range of clients accused of sexual assaults and other sex charges, their criminal lawyer team will be able to deliver the best results. Taking a non-judgmental approach, we believe that every person has the right to a strong criminal defence and will ensure that your side of the story is always considered.
What are sexual assault offences?
Their approach is non-judgmental, ensuring every client receives a fair trial and that their side of the story is heard. They are the sexual assault lawyers Melbourne trusts. There are several sexual offences you can be charged with. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of charges, including:
- Rape
- Sexual assault
- Sexual assault by compelling sexual touching
- Assault with intent to commit a sexual offence
- Compelling sexual penetration
- Procuring a sexual act by threat or fraud
- Indecent assault
- Incest
- Bestiality
- Sexual servitude
- Indecent act in the presence of a child under 16
- Persistent sexual abuse of a child under 16
- Sexual penetration of a child under 16
- Sexual penetration of a 16 or 17-year-old child
- Possession of child abuse material
- Production of child pornography
- Sexual offences against people with cognitive impairment
- Abduction or detention for a sexual purpose
- Administration of drugs for a sexual purpose
- Threat to commit a sexual offence
- Threat to distribute an intimate image
- Distribution of an intimate image
- Failing to comply with Sex Offender Registry reporting regulations
- Providing false or misleading information (Sex Offender Registry)
- Loitering near schools by a sexual offender
More detailed information regarding these and other sexual offences can be found in the Crimes Act 1958.
Melbourne Sexual Assault Defence Attorney:
Understanding the Legal Process:
In Victoria, sexual offence cases often proceed through the following stages:
- Police Interview: You have the right to legal representation and are not obligated to answer questions.
- Committal Hearing: Held in the Magistrates’ Court to determine if there’s sufficient evidence for a trial.
- Trial: Typically conducted in the County Court, where the case is presented before a judge or jury.
They ensure clients are well-prepared for each stage, providing clarity and support throughout the process.
Sexual Assault Lawyers Legal Defence Melbourne
Sexual offences carry severe penalties in Victoria, ranging from fines to lengthy imprisonment. For instance, a rape conviction can result in up to 25 years in prison. If you are found guilty of a sexual offence, you may be sentenced to:
- Fines
- A charge on your criminal record
- Prison time
Where will my case be heard?
In certain circumstances, your case may be entirely handled by the Magistrates Court. However, as sexual assault lawyers know sexual offending cases are taken quite seriously, your case will most likely be heard in the County Court.
Prior to your trial, you will first attend a committal hearing at the Magistrates Court to decide whether there is enough evidence that you have committed the offence.
What criminal defence do I have?
Common defence approaches include:
- Consent: Arguing that the sexual activity was consensual.
- Mistaken Identity: Challenging the accuracy of the accuser’s identification.
- False Allegations: Presenting evidence that the accusation is unfounded.
To determine whether or not you had a reasonable belief, the Court will assess your situation “in the light of generally accepted community standards and attitudes”. Consent cannot be given if the other person:
- Is asleep or unconscious
- Is incapacitated by drugs or alcohol
- Fears for themselves or someone else
- Is subjected to force
- Is unlawfully detained
- Is incapable of understanding the sex act
- Is mistaken about the sexual nature of the act or the identity of the person(s) involved
- Is aged 12 or under
Their legal team meticulously examines each case to determine the most effective defence strategy. Your criminal lawyer will be able to give you a better idea of your options during your consultation, so get the free consultation now with them.
Should I plead guilty?
Their team is always upfront about your situation to ensure that you are fully aware and can make the best choice for your future. Yes, you should plead guilty according to your situation, and they will explore every legal option available to you to get the best outcome possible.
Expert Sexual Assault Lawyers in Melbourne for Victims and Defendants:
They have a set of practices specifically formed for people accused of sexual offences, but they also consider victims as important. By helping victims with legal assistance for employees, like Rightside Legal, in such cases, sexual assault lawyers provide effective and emotional support for survivors of sexual abuse.
Top Five FAQs:
Seek immediate legal counsel. Avoid discussing the case with anyone other than your lawyer and refrain from making public statements.
Yes, the right to refrain from speaking is available, and you can avail it until consulting with an attorney.
Penalties vary; some may include imprisonment, fines, or mandatory registration as a sex offender.
A lawyer can review evidence, develop a defence theory, represent you in court, and negotiate plea bargains if warranted.
Yes, the reforms recently have extended some forms of protection to victims during trials to limit the repeated cross-examination and allow pre-recording of testimony in certain cases.
Contact us
For comprehensive legal support in sexual offence cases, consider reaching out to Haitch Legal.
Call us now on (03) 8590 8370 for a free and confidential consultation with sexual assault lawyers in Melbourne today. Their expertise and dedication make them a reliable choice for those seeking justice in Melbourne.
For an obligation-free discussion of your situation, please don’t hesitate and visit our Office Location: Central Melbourne, Level 1/416 Sydney Road, Coburg, VIC, 3058.
Or Contact Form: Available on our website
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