Columbus Sex Crimes Lawyer

Facing any type of criminal charges can be a scary time for defendants. The sensitive nature of sex crime allegations can make dealing with these charges even harder. Defendants can find themselves isolated, and abandoned by those they trusted the most. It’s vital that their attorney be impervious to societal pressure, firm in standing up for their client’s rights, and skillful at making a case in court. 

The sex crimes lawyers in our Columbus office are the types of attorneys that defendants can count on. We have a successful track record of legal defense that goes back to 2000, and we’ve built a reputation as a firm that takes on the hard cases. Moreover, you get open communication when you come to Funkhouser Law. You’ll get your lawyer’s personal cellphone number and 24/7 access. 

Call us at (614) 756-2154 or use our online contact form to request a free consultation. We’ll meet in person at our offices in Columbus and Cincinnati or virtually, whichever is best for you.

Common Sex Crime Allegations

Our office has extensive experience helping defendants charged with allegations like these: 

• Rape: This involves engaging in sexual conduct with another person by force, threat of force, or deception. In Ohio, this crime is considered a first-degree felony.
• Sexual battery: This occurs when an individual allegedly engages in sexual conduct with someone who is mentally incapacitated, unaware, or coerced due to their authority or influence over the victim. This offense can range from a third to a second-degree felony.
• Gross sexual imposition: This applies when a person has sexual contact with another without their consent, or the victim is under a certain age. It is a fourth-degree felony, but it can escalate to a third-degree if the victim is under the age of 13. 
• Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor: Also known as statutory rape, this crime involves engaging in sexual conduct with someone aged 13 to 15. It is classified as a fourth-degree felony but can be changed based on the age difference and prior record of the defendant. 
• Voyeurism: This is the act of spying on someone for sexual gratification without their knowledge or consent. Depending on the circumstances, the charges can be anything from a third-degree to a fifth-degree felony. 

This is a short list of possible offenses. Others include child pornography, public indecency, and others. 

Common Sex Crime Defenses

The defense strategy in any specific case depends on circumstances unique to that case and is settled after consultation with the defendant. Some common strategies include: 

• Consent: If we can provide evidence that the activity was consensual, such as messages, emails, or witness testimony, it could lead to a dismissal or reduction of the charges.
• False allegations: Can it be demonstrated that the allegations are fabricated, perhaps motivated by personal vendettas, custody battles, or financial gain? Evidence such as inconsistencies in the accuser's story, alibis, and character witnesses can be pivotal.
• Mistaken identity: In cases where the victim was unable to clearly identify their assailant, the defense might argue mistaken identity. Presenting evidence that the accused was elsewhere during the time of the alleged crime can create reasonable doubt.
• Insufficient evidence: By highlighting weaknesses in the prosecution's case, such as lack of physical evidence, unreliable witness testimony, or procedural errors during the investigation, the defense can argue that there is insufficient evidence to convict.
• Mental incapacity: If the accused was not mentally competent at the time of the crime due to a mental disorder or incapacity, this defense can be used to argue they were unable to understand their actions or differentiate between right and wrong.
• Entrapment: Entrapment is when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they would not otherwise commit. In some sex crime cases, particularly those involving internet stings, the defense might argue that the defendant was coerced or manipulated.
• Age misrepresentation: In cases involving unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, if the minor misrepresented their age and the accused reasonably believed they were of legal age, this can serve as a defense. 

The Ohio Sex Offender Registry

The Ohio Sex Offender Registry is a component of the state's approach to monitoring those convicted of sex crimes, but it can have severe and lasting consequences for those listed. 

Operated by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, the registry classifies offenders into three tiers based on the nature of their offense and perceived risk to the community. This classification determines the duration and frequency of registration requirements.

Tier I offenders must register annually for 15 years and often include those convicted of less severe offenses such as unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. Tier II offenders are required to register every 180 days for 25 years, covering more serious crimes like gross sexual imposition. Tier III offenders, who have committed the most severe offenses, such as rape or sexual battery, are mandated to register every 90 days for life.

Being listed on the Ohio Sex Offender Registry can profoundly impact a defendant’s life. Registrants must provide extensive personal information, including their home address, place of employment, school enrollment, vehicle details, and online identifiers. This information becomes publicly accessible, leading to social stigma, difficulties in finding employment, and challenges in securing housing. 

The sex crimes lawyers in our Columbus office understand the stress and uncertainty that come with being listed on the registry. We are determined to be the best trial lawyers we can be, and to work meticulously to craft defense strategies that can heighten your chances of a favorable outcome.

We Know the System

Our founding partner, Attorney Douglas A. Funkhouser, started his career as a prosecutor. He understands the criminal justice system from both sides, and he leverages that knowledge on behalf of our clients. When a defendant comes to Funkhouser Law, they can be confident in a legal defense that is strategically developed and professionally implemented. We can’t guarantee the outcome of any case, but our record and the testimonials we’ve received can inspire confidence and give defendants hope. 

Call today at (614) 756-2154.