Lexington Attorney for Crimes Against Children

Lexington Criminal Lawyer Helping Challenge Charges

Children are seen as some of the most helpless and vulnerable victims. For this reason, allegations of crimes against children can be some of the most stigmatizing. If a person is accused of neglecting, physically abusing or molesting a child, that individual will likely face a ruined reputation, problems in his or her family life and career and a possible conviction. While it is important to protect children, it is also important to remember that there are sometimes cases of mistaken identity or false allegations that can lead to wrongful criminal charges.

Because crimes against children can carry very serious penalties upon conviction—sometimes years or decades in prison, depending on the specific offense—it is extremely important that you immediately turn to a competent legal professional if you are facing such charges. At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we have a team of highly qualified Lexington criminal lawyers who can help you through your ordeal. We have provided you with some basic information about the various types of crimes against children that South Carolina residents can be faced with.

Facing accusations? Seek defense from our Lexington lawyer for crimes against children. Contact us today!

Types of Crimes Involving Child Victims

The severity of the penalty upon a conviction will depend on the type of offense committed and various other factors. In some cases, the age of a child can affect how harsh a penalty will be. Besides receiving long prison sentences, individuals convicted of certain sex crimes against children can also be required to register as sex offenders, a designation that can label and haunt them for years to come. There are many different types of individuals who can be charged with committing crimes against children. These can be parents, other relatives, daycare workers, teachers or even complete strangers.

For parents and legal guardians, even a lack of a required action can be a criminal offense. For example, if the individual's fails to take a certain action to care for the child and that failure puts the child's physical or mental well-being at risk, the parent or guardian could be charged with neglect. Crimes such as child neglect, abuse and abandonment are considered acts of "unlawful conduct toward a child" under South Carolina law. When parents or guardians are accused of committing crimes against their children, they can be at risk of temporarily or permanently losing custody, which can end up tearing their families apart.

Securing a Strong Legal Advocate

Accused of acting inappropriately with a child in Lexington, South Carolina? Don't simply stand by and let yourself get labeled as a "child abuser" or "child molester." Take the appropriate steps to defend yourself by reaching out to our law office. We will sit down with you, listen to your side of the story and your concerns, and help you determine the best course of action for your criminal defense. We offer free case evaluations, so you won't need to pay to receive initial guidance regarding your case.

With our help, it might be possible to show that you were wrongfully accused, or simply that there is not enough evidence to convict you. We can also take certain actions to protect your rights when law enforcement has overstepped their boundaries, such as when they performed an unlawful search and seizure.