Know Your Rights When Facing Sex Crime Charges In Honolulu
Sex crimes carry severe penalties — not the least of which are jail time, lifetime sexual offender registration, and employment restrictions. When you are accused of a sex crime, it is imperative you understand all the risks involved before you take action.
I am Bill Harrison, a sex offense attorney with over 40 years of legal experience. When you contact Harrison Law Center, A Law Corporation, I can provide you with the legal advice you need to protect yourself and your future. Based in Honolulu, my firm serves clients on Oahu and throughout the state of Hawai‘i.
Skilled, Strategic Defense Against Any Sexual Offense Allegations
I represent clients in a range of sex crime cases, including but not limited to:
- Rape and date rape
- Indecent exposure
- Internet sex crimes
- Lewd conduct
- Molestation
- Pandering
- Pimping
- Possession of child pornography
- Prostitution
- Public indecency
- Sexual abuse
- Sexual assault
- Solicitation to prostitution
- Statutory rape
Allegations of sexual misconduct can be very damaging, even before charges are filed. Many people will assume guilt without waiting to hear your side of the story. That’s one of many reasons why you need a seasoned legal professional on your side who can cut through the noise and focus on the facts.
What Are Common Punishments For Sex Crimes In Hawai‘i?
If you are facing charges for a sex crime in Hawai‘i, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences. Sexual assault offenses, for instance, are broken down into four categories or degrees based on the severity of the offense. Here is a general overview:
First-degree sexual assault: This is the most severe charge and is considered a Class A felony. Conviction can result in up to 20 years in prison. This level of offense generally involves non-consensual intercourse by force or with someone who is incapable of consent due to age or impairment.
Second-degree sexual assault: This is a Class B felony with penalties that can include up to 10 years of imprisonment. The charge often involves nonconsensual intercourse without the aggravating factors required for a first-degree charge.
Third-degree sexual assault: A Class C felony, this offense covers a broader range of behaviors, including nonconsensual sexual contact. If convicted, a person could face up to five years in prison.
Fourth-degree sexual assault: This is the least severe charge (a misdemeanor) but still carries significant penalties, including the possibility of up to a year in jail. This offense generally includes non-consensual touching of a sexual nature, trespassing for purposes of being a “peeping tom” or knowingly exposing one’s genitals in a manner that would cause alarm or fear of injury
It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the actual penalties for sex crimes can vary based on circumstances, including prior criminal history and the specifics of the case.
When Do You Have To Register As A Sex Offender In Hawai‘i?
Being on a sex offender registry is a punishment that can have major impacts on your life long after your sentence has been served. Convictions of many types of offenses result in mandatory registration, such as:
- Any sex crime that involves children or child pornography
- Sexual assault of any degree
- First-degree or second-degree promotion of prostitution
Under Hawai‘i law, most people convicted of a sex offense will be on the registry for a minimum of 10 years (for relatively minor offenses) or potentially for life. Failure to register is its own crime. Petitioning court for removal from the registry is an option for some offenders, but it is difficult to achieve. Therefore, the best way to protect your future is to avoid a conviction, if at all possible, with the help of an experienced sex crime lawyer.
Tell Me Your Side Of The Story During A Free Initial Consultation
From my office in Honolulu, Harrison Law Center serves clients throughout Hawai‘i. I represent both state residents and individuals charged with crimes while visiting Hawai‘i. To learn more about how I can help, contact me to arrange a free initial consultation. Just call 808-501-0408 or reach out online.