Sex Crimes and Child Molestation

If You Face A Sexual Misconduct Charge

Sex offenses are a special class of crime requiring delicate, professional handling by a skilled attorney like Stephen Smith. (Please read our Recent Victories and Client Testimonials pages for some of his recent casework.)

Many factors go into defending sex cases. The alleged victim's age, his or her credibility, the state and nature of the evidence and the client's state of mind with respect to the various risks and benefits of trial.

Clients need to be aware of, and our firm is skilled in minimizing the impact of, the mandatory sex offender registration laws. Depending on the offense a person convicted of a sex crime could be forced to register for either 10 years or life. Sex crimes, in particular, carry a heavy social stigma. We work with our clients to minimize the possibility of publicity while at the same time preparing to mount a vigorous trial defense.

 

Definition of Sex Offenses Under Maine Law

The major sex offenses under Maine law are as follows:
A: "Felony" sex offenses (Class A, B, or C crimes) are found in the Criminal code.
  • 1: Gross sexual assault, Title 17-A, §253 may be a Class A, B, or C crime.

  • 2: Sexual abuse of a minor, Title 17-A, §254, sub §3m A and B may be Class C crime.

  • 3: Unlawful sexual contact, Title 17-A, §255m sub §1, C, G and H are Class C crimes.


    • B: In addition, other crimes in the Code may be used to prosecute sex offenders. Under certain circumstances, a sex offender may be charged with:
    • 1: Aggravated assault, Title 17-A, §208, which is a Class B crime.
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    • 2: Elevated aggravated assault, Title 17-A, §208-B, which is a Class A Crime.


    • C: The following crimes regarding child abuse are found in Title 17 and may also be used to prosecute sex offenders:
      • 1: Sexual exploitation of a minor, Title 17, §2922, which may be a Class A or B crime.

      • 2: Dissemination of sexually explicit materials, Title 17, §2923, which may be a Class B or C crime.

      • 3: Possession of sexually explicit materials, Title 17, §2924, sub §5, which may be a Class C crime.



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