When someone faces charges of child molestation in Birmingham, Alabama, the legal process can feel confusing and overwhelming. Contact Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. at (205) 930-9800 for a free case evaluation.
The stakes are extremely high, with both your freedom and reputation at risk. An effective defense requires understanding both the law and the system you’re up against.
While emotions often run high in these cases, it’s essential to remain focused on your rights and the steps to take. Talking to a lawyer as soon as possible can help protect a defendant’s rights from the very beginning. We can help guide you through the criminal process and be with you every step of the way.
Reach out to our team today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Birmingham child molestation lawyer.
Why Hire Jaffe Hanle Whisonant & Knight P.C. After an Arrest for Child Molestation in Birmingham, AL?
When you face an arrest for a serious crime in Birmingham, AL, your future can seem uncertain. Trying to defend yourself in court without strong legal help leaves you exposed to mistakes and severe consequences, like prison time. That is why so many people call on Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C.
Here’s what sets our Birmingham criminal defense lawyers apart:
- 100 years of combined experience handling complex cases
- Representation in both state and federal courts in Alabama
- Every lawyer at our firm holds recognition from Super Lawyers
- Our firm has a perfect 10.0 rating on Avvo, showing outstanding client feedback
We understand all the stress that comes with criminal allegations in Birmingham, especially those as serious as child molestation. We offer confidential, free consultations with a Birmingham child molestation attorney to explain what happens next and to show how we can help you.
Overview of Child Molestation in Alabama
Under Alabama law, child sexual abuse is taken very seriously. A charge of sexual abuse of a child under 12 years old applies when an individual who is 16 years old or older has sexual contact with someone under the age of 12.
The law does not require that the contact involve intercourse. Any sexual contact, as defined by the law, is enough for prosecution.
What Are the Penalties for Child Molestation in Birmingham, Alabama?
Anyone convicted of child molestation in Birmingham faces felony charges and some of the most severe penalties under state law, even if it’s their first offense. The court will not only consider prison time but a range of long-term restrictions designed to prevent repeat offenses.
Penalties for a first-time offender can include:
- Prison for 2 to 20 years, along with fines up to $30,000
- Mandatory registration under Alabama’s SORNA system
- Residency rules that usually prohibit living within 2,000 feet of schools or child care centers
- As of October 1, 2024, convicted offenders cannot receive parole or a pardon
- At least 10 years of supervision after release, with electronic monitoring required during that time
A conviction brings severe consequences, making it critical to speak with legal counsel as soon as possible.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Child Molestation?
There are several common defenses used by those accused of child molestation in Alabama. An experienced lawyer will carefully review every detail to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument, and may use one of the following:
False Accusations
Sometimes, people are wrongly accused of child sexual abuse due to misunderstandings, personal conflicts, revenge, or mistaken identity. A lawyer can look for hidden motives or inconsistent statements that could show the accusation isn’t true.
Lack of Evidence
A defense may also focus on how much or how little credible evidence the prosecution has. If the evidence against you is weak, your lawyer may be able to poke holes in the state’s case and raise a reasonable doubt.
Also, if any of it was gathered in an unlawful way, your attorney can ask the court to throw it out, which will make it much harder for the prosecutor to prove their case.
Coerced Confessions
In some cases, law enforcement may use pressure, threats, or intimidation techniques during questioning. This can lead to a defendant saying something untrue just to end the interrogation. An attorney can challenge the confession and try to have it thrown out and not used against you.
Sometimes, this is the only evidence that exists other than the accusation, and without it, the case often falls apart. If you’re charged with child molestation, telling your Birmingham criminal defense attorney everything is essential. The sooner an attorney can examine the details, the better chance you have of a fair process and outcome.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Birmingham Child Molestation Lawyer Today
Each child molestation case involves its own details and challenges. Having solid legal help can make a significant difference in how your situation is handled and can impact the potential outcomes. Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., has experience in these sensitive cases and can give you valuable guidance and representation.
Being proactive is one of the most important decisions you can make for your future, so don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’ll help you get scheduled with a free consultation so you can speak with one of our Birmingham child molestation lawyers as soon as possible.