Pittsburgh Sex Crime Lawyer

Pittsburgh Sex Crime Attorney

When you stand accused of a sex crime, there are serious implications for your life. If convicted, you could spend years in prison. And the penalties don’t end once you are released either; sex offender registration, probation and the lifelong stigma attached to the offense are just a few of the many collateral consequences of a sex offense. To fight sex crime charges, seek help from a Pittsburgh sex crimes lawyer with a track record of obtaining measurable results.

At Stanton D. Levenson, P.A. Law Offices, in Pittsburgh, our father-daughter defense team provides strong criminal defense services for clients accused of a variety of sex crimes, including sexual assault, child pornography and rape.

Serious Defense For Sex Crimes

At Stanton D. Levenson, P.A. Law Offices, we are experienced criminal defense lawyers who focus on securing positive results for every client through personalized service. Attorneys Stanton D. Levenson and Amy B. Levenson Jones collaborate on every case they take—Stan brings experience, proven techniques and straightforward support, while Amy brings youth, new thinking and a female perspective. Over the last ten years, there has been a proliferation in prosecutors charging sex offense cases, especially involving high school and college students. Our Pittsburgh-based firm has extensive experience and a winning track record in this area.

We don’t judge our clients who are accused of sex crimes; we defend them. As part of our service, we provide serious defensive strategies and innovative techniques to defend our clients against their allegations. Our tireless defense attorneys also offer comprehensive case analyses and personal attention to clients charged with one of the following crimes:

• Title IX allegations
• Rape
• Statutory rape
• Sexual assault
• Child pornography
• Indecent exposure
• Solicitation and prostitution
• Internet sex crimes
• Sex trafficking
• Sex offender registry issues

To ensure every case receives the attention it deserves, we take a limited number of cases. We have a track record of obtaining positive outcomes for our clients. Stan has been included in the Super Lawyers list for 16 years and running, and is also listed in The Best Lawyers in America.

Sex Offenses in Pittsburgh by the Numbers

Sex offenses are a serious concern in Pittsburgh. Across the state, 3,256 forcible rape cases were reported in 2023 alone. In Pittsburgh, the local police department reported 75 cases of rape. A recent release from Point Park University reminded students about a dangerous time of year for undergraduates. Known as the Red Zone, August through November accounts for over 50% of college sexual assault cases nationwide.

How Are Sex Crimes Legally Defined In Pennsylvania?

Under Pennsylvania law, sex crimes encompass a range of unlawful sexual conduct involving force, lack of consent or victims legally unable to consent. The Commonwealth defines these offenses through specific elements that prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

Sexual assault charges typically require proof of nonconsensual sexual contact or penetration, while statutory offenses focus on the age of the alleged victim rather than consent. When evaluating potential charges, prosecutors consider key factors that shape the severity and nature of the case:

• The nature and extent of physical contact
• Age difference between parties involved
• Position of authority or trust
• Use of force or threats
• Presence of aggravating circumstances

Each of these elements plays a role in your defense strategy, as they must be carefully examined and challenged where appropriate to protect your rights.

What Should You Do If Arrested Or Interrogated By Law Enforcement?

If you’re arrested or questioned regarding a sex crime allegation, your immediate actions can significantly impact your case outcome. To protect your legal rights, consider these critical steps if arrested or dealing with law enforcement, especially during the initial phases of your case:

• Exercise your right to remain silent. Any statements you make can be used against you, even if they seem innocent or explanatory.
• Do not engage with law enforcement without a lawyer present.
• Clearly invoke your right to an attorney.
• Do not consent to searches without a warrant, whether of your person, property or electronic devices.
• Document everything you remember about the arrest or questioning process, including officer names, times and specific questions asked.

Taking these steps helps preserve your legal options and strengthens your position as your case moves forward.

How Does Pennsylvania Penalize Sex Crime Offenders?

If you are convicted of a state or federal-level sex offense, your life will change. Whether it’s a prison sentence, forced registration as a sex offender or other actions taken by the government under the guise of protecting the public from you, the impact on your life if you are convicted cannot be overstated.

Depending on whether you were convicted of a third-degree, second-degree or first-degree felony, you could end up facing seven to 20 years in prison and a fine between $15,000 and $25,000.

Could There Be Social Consequences After A Conviction?

While the legal penalties associated with sex-related crimes cannot be understated, convicted Pennsylvanians can eventually serve their time and pay off their fines. However, the social consequences surrounding a sex-related conviction will follow a person for life. For example, convicted Pennsylvanians will be forced to register as sex offenders, which can lead to marginalization and rejection. Being subjected to this can potentially cause people to feel alone and separated from their former community, friends and even family.

How Can A Pittsburgh Lawyer Help You Navigate A Sex Crime Charge?

A skilled defense attorney serves as your advocate and guide through the complex legal process of fighting sex crime charges. Our father-daughter team provides comprehensive support through several key services:

• Immediate case evaluation and strategic planning.
• Direct communication with prosecutors and law enforcement.
• Thorough investigation of evidence and witness statements.
• Challenge of procedural violations or constitutional issues.
• Development of comprehensive defense strategies.
• Protection against rights violations during the legal process.

This focused approach, combined with our firm’s dedication to personal attention and proven results, gives you the strong defense needed when facing serious criminal charges.

Criminal Defense Strategies for Sex Crime Charges

Sex crime charges in Pittsburgh carry serious consequences, including prison time, lifetime sex offender registration, and permanent damage to your reputation. Building a strong defense begins by working with an experienced criminal defense attorney to understand the charges you face and the evidence the prosecution has against you.

Inconsistencies in statements, a lack of physical evidence, or ulterior motives can be critical to a defense strategy. Another common approach is contesting how evidence was collected. Evidence may be excluded if law enforcement violates search and seizure rules or fails to follow proper procedures.

In some cases, outside special witnesses can testify about how unreliable eyewitness accounts can be and whether or not the forensic methods used in your case are reliable. A defense attorney may also work with you to present alibi evidence or highlight reasonable doubt by exposing gaps in the prosecution’s case.

No two cases are the same, and an experienced attorney must tailor a defense to the facts, the law, and the unique circumstances of the alleged offense, whether the arrest happened in the South Side or the case is headed to the Allegheny County Courthouse on Grant Street.

FAQs

What Is a Sex Crime Lawyer?

A sex crime lawyer is an attorney who focuses on defending clients accused of sexual offenses, such as sexual assault, rape, or sexual exploitation. They provide critical legal defense, can challenge evidence, and work to protect their client’s rights throughout the legal process. Sex crime charges carry serious consequences, so having an experienced attorney is crucial in defending against these allegations.

What Are the Penalties for a Sex Crime Conviction in Pennsylvania?

The penalties for a sex crime conviction in Pennsylvania depend on the offense’s severity. Offenses such as rape and aggravated sexual assault can result in long prison sentences, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and restrictions on residency and employment. Lesser offenses still carry significant penalties, and a conviction can have long-lasting effects on one’s life and future opportunities.

What Defenses Are Available Against Sex Crime Charges in Pittsburgh?

Several defenses can be used against sex crime charges in Pittsburgh, including proving consent, showing the accusations are false, or demonstrating a lack of sufficient evidence. Other defenses might include alibi evidence, challenging witness credibility, or asserting that the defendant was unlawfully coerced or entrapped. A skilled sex crime lawyer can evaluate the facts of the case to determine a solid defense strategy.

What Makes a Sex Offense Federal?

A sex offense becomes a federal matter if it involves crossing state lines, occurs on federal property, or violates federal laws, such as the trafficking of minors for sexual exploitation. Federal sex crimes carry additional penalties and a more complex legal process. Defendants facing federal charges require experienced legal representation to navigate the federal justice system and its severe consequences.

You Deserve The Best Defense Against Sex Crime Allegations

At Stanton D. Levenson, P.A. Law Offices, we have a passion for helping clients who find themselves accused of serious sex crimes seek a way out. We offer tenacious representation during all stages of the legal process, with a focus on reducing the negative impact on your life. Contact us to discuss your circumstances, explore your options and find out how to move forward. Call 412-837-8757 or send a message online. From our offices in Pittsburgh, we represent clients throughout Pennsylvania and the entire United States.