When you’re accused of a sex crime, you may feel like you have no chance of beating the charges. Or maybe you think the penalties can’t be all that bad. In some cases, your sex crime may even be charged as a misdemeanor, but all sex crime charges are serious in North Carolina.
If you’re in danger of a sex crime conviction, your future is on the line. Before you do anything else, take a look at the long-term consequences you may face if you plead guilty or fail to defend yourself. Your lawyer can help you avoid the penalties of a sex crime conviction, so reach out for help from The Chetson Firm as soon as possible.
Read on to learn what to expect if you’re convicted of a sex crime in North Carolina.
You May Face Harsh Penalties
North Carolina takes sex crimes extremely seriously. That’s why prison time is likely if you’re convicted or a sex crime in our state.
You may also face severe financial penalties. Many felonies, including sex crimes, come with steep fines that may add up to thousands of dollars. That can be difficult to pay off even if you’re able to work but much harder if you have no income while behind bars.
You May Have to Register as a Sex Offender
One of the lasting impacts of many sexual offenses is the sex offender registry. If you’re convicted of a sex crime, especially a sexual offense involving a minor, you may be forced to register as a sex offender in North Carolina. This registry can limit your housing options, barring you from living close to schools, playgrounds, and other public locations.
Being registered as a sex offender can impact your family, too. You may lose custody of your children, for example, which can isolate and emotionally destroy you.
Your Criminal Record May Impact Your Life
But even if you’re not placed on the sex offender registry, your criminal record alone can impact your life for years to come. Anyone performing a background check can see your criminal record. That can hurt your chances to get a job, rent an apartment, take out a loan, buy a house, and more.
That limits your ability to get back to a somewhat normal life after a sex crime conviction. Your future may be held back indefinitely if you don’t fight your sex crime charge and win.
A Defense Attorney Can Help You: Call Now
Your future may depend on the outcome of your criminal trial for a sex crime charge. If you don’t fight back, you may have trouble recovering from the penalties and getting your life back on track. That’s why it’s so important to act now and seek legal help if you’re accused of a sex crime.
At The Chetson Firm, we’re prepared to build your defense and represent you in the courtroom. We understand the penalties you could face for a sex crime, and we’re here to help you make sure you don’t get convicted. When you’re ready to start building your defense, text or call 919-352-9411 or fill out the online contact form at the bottom of this page.
