Athens Sexual Assault Lawyer

Athens Sexual Assault Attorney

Sexual assault accusations should be taken very seriously as they have the potential to severely impact your future. If you’ve been accused of committing a violent sex crime, don’t hesitate to reach out to an Athens sexual assault lawyer right away. With the help of a professional defense attorney, you can protect your rights and have a strong chance of a favorable outcome.

When in search of competent legal representation, look no further than The Fleming Firm. Our founding attorney, Preston Fleming, believes in focusing on the needs of each client. We aim to provide high-quality legal services and fight for a successful outcome to your case.

When to Hire a Sexual Assault Lawyer

Georgia’s sexual assault laws can be tricky, so it’s a good idea to work with a qualified and skilled defense attorney to guide you through the process. An Athens sexual assault attorney can ensure you don’t incidentally incriminate yourself, protect your constitutional rights within the criminal justice system, and see that the legal proceedings are conducted fairly. Your lawyer can also argue for reduced charges and negotiate for fewer penalties.

These are some criminal charges for which you should hire a sexual assault lawyer:

• Rape. This form of sexual assault is defined as a person forcing themselves sexually upon someone else without their consent.
• Statutory rape. This is sexual assault defined instead by the age of the participants, specifically that one of the parties was under the age of 16, rather than a lack of consent in the traditional sense. This is because, legally, minors cannot consent to sexual activity.
• Sexual battery. This crime occurs when someone purposefully touches another individual’s private areas without their consent and for their own gratification.
• Child molestation. This type of assault entails an indecent or immoral act being done to or in the vicinity of a child under the age of consent, done either with the intention to stimulate or gratify the perpetrator or the child. Aggravated child molestation is when physical injury was inflicted upon the child or if the element of sodomy was involved.
• Aggravated sodomy. This offense involves any forceful sexual act involving the sex organs of one person and the mouth or anus of another, when done against the victim’s will.

Violent crimes, including sexual assault offenses, made up about 16 percent of the state’s reported crimes in 2024. Of these violent crimes, instances of rape made up 1.63 percent of them. There were 3,353 cases of rape reported across Georgia in 2024.

Sexual assault cases in Athens are most likely to be processed at the Clarke County Courthouse, located at 325 East Washington Street, Athens, GA 30601. However, the courthouse that handles your case can vary, depending on where the alleged crime took place and other details of the situation. Be sure to ask your attorney where your case is most likely to be processed.

FAQs

What Is Considered a Sexual Assault Crime in GA?

In Georgia, a sexual assault crime may refer to a number of different unlawful acts. Rape is one form of sexual assault that involves forcing inappropriate touching or unwanted sex acts upon someone against their will. Statutory rape is when one of the participants is under 16, making them unable to consent to sexual activity.

Sexual battery involves touching someone’s private parts for gratification against the victim’s will. Other sexual assault crimes include child molestation and aggravated sodomy.

What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in GA?

Depending on the exact circumstances of your situation, the penalties you could face if convicted can range quite a bit in the state of Georgia. In the vast majority of cases, a sexual assault conviction results in a jail or prison sentence, a large fine, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Harsher penalties may be given if a weapon was used, serious bodily injury was inflicted, or if there was a significant age gap between the offender and victim.

How Does a Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer Help?

There are numerous ways a sexual assault defense lawyer helps your case. An attorney acts as a supportive and informative resource throughout the legal process, helping you to feel less overwhelmed or confused.

After reviewing the details of your case, your lawyer can explain what legal options are available before building an effective defense approach. In addition to creating a defense case, your attorney is there to ensure your rights are protected and that your case is given fair treatment.

How Long Does a Sexual Assault Case Take in GA?

How long it may take to fully resolve a sexual assault case in Georgia can vary significantly, depending on multiple factors. These factors include the nature of the offense itself, what evidence is available, the complexity of the case, such as how long the discovery phase requires, and other important details. You can ask your defense attorney how long they expect your particular case to take. Some cases take a few months, while others may take a year or longer.

What Are the Defenses Against Sexual Assault in GA?

Which defense strategy your lawyer may use depends largely on the unique details of your case. The defense that may be most effective for your situation depends on the type of sexual assault charge, the evidence available, and other case details.

Common defenses against sexual assault include proving that valid consent was involved, arguing that the allegations are false, or that the defendant was mistakenly identified. You can ask your lawyer what defense may work in your case.

Skilled Sexual Assault Defense Attorney in Athens, GA

The Fleming Firm believes that every person is innocent until proven guilty and that they should be treated as such within the criminal justice system. We can approach your sexual assault case with the empathy and sensitivity that it requires. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation with a kind and seasoned defense attorney who’s ready to answer any questions you may have.