Long-Term Legal Problems for Convicted Child Molesters

If you are accused of child molestation, you must not take the charge lightly. If convicted, you will face many long term legal problems.

Child molestation laws

Any non-penetrative sexual activity including in appropriate touching between an adult and a child is considered as child molestation. The US criminal justice system has severe laws dealing with child molestation. In all the 50 states child molestation is a felony punishable by prison sentence ranging from 1 year to 30 years for the first offence. In some states, repeat offenders can be sentenced to death. The age of the child victim will play an important role in determining the prison sentence. Generally, the prison sentence will be greater if the child is less than 14 years of age. Penalties for child molestation are not restricted to prison sentence. Those convicted of child molestation can be ordered to pay hefty fines. Convicted child molesters can be ordered to undergo counseling and do community service.

Legal consequences

Under the US criminal justice system one of the factors a judge considers while sentencing a defendant in a criminal case is his or her criminal record. If the defendant has a criminal record, he or she is likely to get a longer prison sentence. Conviction for child molestation creates a criminal record and will play an important role if the person is charged for any crime in the future. This record will show up every time someone does a background check on the person. He or she will have difficulty in getting employment or accommodation because of the criminal record. In most states, a convicted felon is barred from owning a fire arm and this will be applicable to those convicted of child molestation. Convicted child molesters must register themselves in the state sex offender registry. The state sex offender registry is a public document and can be accessed by all. Failure to register is a criminal offense punishable by prison sentence.

Damages

In some states, the law allows the victims to file civil suit for damages from the perpetrator of the crime. The damages can run into millions of dollars. Besides the legal consequences, a convicted child molester will have to face the stigma through out his or her life. He or she will be under immense public scrutiny.

Getting legal help

The legal consequences of being convicted for child molestation are serious. Consult with an experienced child molestation attorney to defend yourself.