Thursday, February 24, 2022

Why are sex crimes treated differently?

If you’ve been charged with a sex crime, the possible consequences can be concerning. It can seem that sex-related crimes hold more weight in court than others. This is seen in the long-lasting punishments and judgement from the public for those convicted of sex crimes.

If you’re facing sex-related criminal allegations in Nevada, you need a sex crimes defense attorney who can provide you with the best representation possible. At Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law, we will work to find any flaws in the prosecution’s case that can be used to show your guilt cannot be proven beyond reasonable doubt.

What Crimes Make Someone a Sex Offender?

If someone is convicted of an offense considered that’s a sex crime, they may be required to register as a sex offender. Sex crimes are offenses involving sexual acts with someone who either didn’t or couldn’t consent to participate. This can also involve the use of violence in a sexual act.

Some sex crimes that may make someone a sex offender include the following:

  • Sexual assault
  • Rape
  • Statutory rape
  • Child pornography
  • Public indecency
  • Prostitution
  • Child molestation

How Serious Are Sex Crimes?

Depending on the factors involved in the incident, a sex crime conviction can have serious consequences. Some sex crimes may only be misdemeanor charges, but more severe crimes can be felonies.

Something that may seem simple and innocent, such as urinating in public, could lead to a sex crime charge. However, this will often only be a misdemeanor on the first offense. Prostitution will also likely be charged as a misdemeanor on the first offense in illegal counties. Most other sex crimes are considered serious offenses and come with punishments such as fines, incarceration, and sex offender registration.

What Crimes Require Sex Offender Registration in Las Vegas?

Nevada law outlines what is considered a sex crime in the state. The following crimes usually require the defendant to register as a sex offender in Nevada if convicted:

  • Sexual abuse or exploitation of a child
  • Battery with intent to commit sexual assault
  • Indecent exposure
  • Incest
  • Lewdness with a child
  • Luring a child or mentally ill person
  • Murder committed in the course of a successful or attempted sex crime
  • Child pornography
  • Sexual assault
  • Sexually motivated offenses
  • Sexual penetration with a dead body
  • Statutory rape

Are Sex Crimes Federal or State?

Whether a sex crime is prosecuted federally or by the state depends on the severity of the crime and where it took place. If a sex crime occurs on federal property or crosses state lines, it becomes a federal crime. Certain factors can aggravate a sex crime and make it a federal crime. These factors typically include abuse against a minor, use of a weapon, and multiple offenses.

Charged with a Sex Crime? Talk to a Las Vegas Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Beyond the criminal punishments you’ll face if convicted of a sex crime, even just an accusation can hurt your reputation. If you’ve been charged with a sex-related crime, you deserve the best defense possible. Contact the Las Vegas sex crime lawyers at Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law to discuss your case today.

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from ADRAS & ALTIG, Attorneys at Law https://www.adrasandaltiglaw.com/sex-crimes/
via https://www.adrasandaltiglaw.com

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Reasons to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer Instead of Public Defender

If you’re facing criminal charges in a Las Vegas court, you’ll need strong legal representation from an experienced criminal defense lawyer who’s committed to fighting for you. This is why it’s in a defendant’s best interest to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer instead of settling for representation by a public defender.

Difference Between Public Defender and Private Attorney

A public defender is a court-appointed lawyer tasked with representing individuals who cannot afford to hire a criminal defense attorney in Las Vegas. This is required by the Sixth Amendment. It states that everyone has the right to “assistance of counsel for his defense.”

They are still licensed attorneys. However, they often do not have the experience, skill, or resources of a private lawyer. When looking for defense counsel, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a public defender.

Is a Public Defender as Good as a Private Attorney?

Although a public defender must also complete law school and become licensed like all other lawyers, they often don’t provide the impressive legal services that private attorneys may. This isn’t necessarily because the public defender is less competent or knowledgeable. Public defenders often have other drawbacks that lead to less adequate representation.

Disadvantages of Hiring a Public Defender

Some public defenders are not as experienced as other criminal defense lawyers. In fact, some public defenders use the position to gain professional experience. However, even experienced public defenders might not be able to provide you with the quality representation you deserve. They usually have large caseloads and are juggling many cases simultaneously. 

Public defenders also tend to suggest that clients just take a plea deal more often. They may only be able to meet with you for a few minutes before you enter the deal. This means you may not fully understand exactly what you’re agreeing to sign.

A public defender won’t have access to the same resources as a private attorney. Most of the time, a private lawyer will also have additional associates, staff, and paralegals helping with your case. Besides assistance with administrative details, private lawyers have developed connections with expert witnesses. They will utilize private lab testing and private investigators to get all the facts. Adras & Altig knows that gaining the best results possible requires collaboration.

This all means that they won’t be able to devote the time or attention necessary to build the strongest criminal defense case on your behalf. However, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will always be committed to fighting for you. 

Talk to an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Las Vegas, NV Today

If you’ve been charged with a criminal offense, you need someone skilled in dealing with Las Vegas courts. No matter what you decide, you need excellent legal representation before speaking to anyone. The experienced attorneys at Adras & Altig care about all our clients. That’s why we work together as a team in your defense to seek the best results. Call (702) 761-3186 or contact us online today for a free case evaluation. 

The post Reasons to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer Instead of Public Defender appeared first on ADRAS & ALTIG, Attorneys at Law.



from ADRAS & ALTIG, Attorneys at Law https://www.adrasandaltiglaw.com/reasons-to-hire-a-criminal-defense-lawyer-instead-of-public-defender/
via https://www.adrasandaltiglaw.com