States, including Georgia, have laws prohibiting incestual relationships. Incest is criminalized to prevent genetic offspring disorders as well as to protect children from sexual abuse by their family members.
If you face charges for any type of sex crime, a conviction could lead to a lengthy prison sentence and lifelong consequences. You deserve the opportunity to assert your rights and dispute allegations you have committed an unlawful sexual act with a family member. Call a hard-working Carrollton incest lawyer to schedule a consultation and start preparing your defense strategy.
A conviction for any crimes of a sexual nature is severe, especially when the charges involve minors. According to the instruction provided in The Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-6-22, a person engaging in sexual intercourse or sodomy is guilty of incest in the context of the following relationships:
Under this incest statute, family means blood relationships as well as family relations by adoption or marriage. A Carrollton attorney could answer specific questions about how state law defines the criminal act of incest.
A conviction for any type of incest will result in harsh penalties and lasting consequences. A person found guilty of incest will receive a felony conviction on their permanent criminal record. They must also serve no less than ten and no more than 30 years in prison. If the court finds someone guilty of incest with a child under 14, the convicted individual will receive a minimum of 25 years and a maximum of 50 years of imprisonment.
The most effective defense strategy against incest charges is providing evidence that the nature of the relationship is not sexual. Another defense option is proving that the relationship between the individual facing charges and the person they are accused of committing incest with is not a blood-family relationship protected under the relevant criminal statutes.
While not as common as some would have others believe, false allegations of incest do occur. Proving a person is alleging incest on false grounds could also be a defense strategy against these charges. A lawyer in Carrollton with experience handling incest charges could thoroughly investigate and review the evidence to determine the best defense plan in your circumstances.
Most states have laws prohibiting sexual relations between family members. The more distant the blood relationship, the less likely people are to face incest charges. While it is relatively rare for someone to face incest charges, a conviction will have lasting negative consequences on your life and future.
An experienced Carrollton incest lawyer understands your challenges and the importance of building a strong defense strategy. Call now to begin working on your case.
J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
