Address

7105 W Hood Pl Ste A-101

Kennewick, WA 99336


Get in touch

(509) 416-6041
mikev@fortitudelawpllc.com

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Criminal defense for Sex Crimes

Fight Back: Defending Against Sex Crime ACcusations with a strong legal defnse

Navigating Sex Crime Accusations

As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I understand the fear and uncertainty that comes with being accused of a sex crime in Washington State. You may be feeling overwhelmed and have many questions about what to expect next. That's where I come in. I will guide you through the legal process, explain your options, and defend your rights every step of the way. We have a proven track record of success in defending clients accused of sex crimes and will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Don't face this alone - let us fight for you.

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online application

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Contact us today by phone at (509) 416-6041

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PRovide relevant documents

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We create a knockout strategy

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Attend court dates at our guidance

My Experience

With over 10+ years of experience as a criminal defense attorney, I've represented clients in a wide range of cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. I've always been passionate about defending the rights of the accused and ensuring that they receive a fair trial, no matter what charges they're facing. I've successfully defended clients in high-profile cases, including drug offenses, sex crimes, and homicide, and I'm committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for each and every one of my clients.


One thing that sets me apart from other criminal defense attorneys is my deep understanding of the legal system and the strategies that work best in different types of cases. I've worked with clients from all walks of life and backgrounds, and I know how to tailor my approach to each individual case. Whether it's negotiating a plea bargain or going to trial, I'm always focused on achieving the best possible outcome for my clients.


I've also developed a reputation for being a fierce advocate for my clients, both inside and outside the courtroom. I believe that every person has the right to a zealous defense, and I'll never back down from fighting for the rights and freedoms of my clients. I'm committed to building strong relationships with my clients and keeping them informed every step of the way, so that they always feel confident and secure in their legal representation.



Overall, my experience and dedication to criminal defense has earned me a reputation as a trusted and respected advocate for the accused. I'm proud to have helped countless clients achieve successful outcomes in their cases, and I'm committed to continuing to provide the highest level of legal representation to those in need.

FAQ'S

  • What happens if I am accused of a sex crime?

    If you are accused of a sex crime, the first thing you should do is seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Being accused of a sex crime can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience, and it's important to have someone on your side who understands the legal process and can help you navigate the complex and often confusing terrain of the criminal justice system.


    The specific steps that follow a sex crime accusation will vary depending on the nature of the offense, the evidence against you, and the jurisdiction in which the offense occurred. However, in general, you can expect the following:


    1. Investigation: Depending on the circumstances of the alleged crime, law enforcement may conduct an investigation to gather evidence and build a case against you. This may include collecting physical evidence, interviewing witnesses, and conducting surveillance.


    2. Arrest: If the police believe they have enough evidence to support the charges against you, they may arrest you and take you into custody. At this point, you will be read your Miranda rights and may be asked to provide a statement.


    3. Charges: After your arrest, you may be formally charged with a sex crime. This means that the prosecutor has filed a criminal complaint against you and is seeking to hold you accountable for the alleged offense.


    4. Bail: Depending on the nature of the offense and other factors, you may be eligible for bail. Bail is a sum of money that you post to the court in exchange for your release from custody while you await trial. If you are unable to post bail, you may remain in custody until your trial.


    5. Trial: If your case goes to trial, the prosecution will present evidence against you and attempt to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the offense in question. Your defense attorney will work to challenge the prosecution's case and present evidence that supports your innocence.


    6. Sentencing: If you are found guilty of a sex crime, the judge will impose a sentence that may include jail time, fines, probation, and other penalties. In addition, you may be required to register as a sex offender, which can have significant consequences for your personal and professional life.


    Overall, being accused of a sex crime is a serious matter that requires careful attention and a strategic legal defense. With the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can work to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

  • How can I prove my innocence?

    If you have been accused of a sex crime, it is important to understand that the burden of proof is on the prosecution. In other words, it is up to the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the offense in question. As the defendant, you do not need to prove your innocence - rather, your defense attorney will work to challenge the evidence against you and create reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury.


    There are many strategies that a defense attorney may use to defend against sex crime accusations and prove your innocence. Some of these include:


    1. Challenging the evidence: Your attorney may challenge the physical evidence that the prosecution is using to build their case against you. This could include challenging the accuracy or reliability of DNA evidence, fingerprints, or other forensic evidence.


    2. Questioning witness credibility: Your attorney may also work to question the credibility of witnesses who are testifying against you. This could include pointing out inconsistencies in their stories or highlighting potential biases or ulterior motives.


    3. Presenting an alibi: If you have an alibi that can prove you were somewhere else at the time of the alleged offense, your attorney may present this evidence to the court to support your innocence.


    4. Highlighting inconsistencies in the prosecution's case: Your attorney may also work to highlight inconsistencies in the prosecution's case, such as errors in police reports or contradictions in witness testimony.


    5. Presenting character witnesses: Finally, your attorney may present character witnesses who can testify to your good character and credibility. This can help to create doubt in the minds of the jury about whether you would be capable of committing the offense in question.


    Overall, there are many strategies that a defense attorney may use to challenge sex crime accusations and prove your innocence. The key is to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the legal system and can develop a strategic defense tailored to your unique situation.

  • Should I talk to the police or give a statement?

    As a general rule, it is not advisable to talk to the police or give a statement if you have been accused of a sex crime. Anything you say to the police can be used against you in court, and even innocent statements can be twisted and used to support the prosecution's case.


    Instead, it is important to exercise your right to remain silent and to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights throughout the investigation and trial process.


    It is important to understand that the police are not on your side. Their job is to gather evidence and build a case against you, and they may use a variety of tactics to try to get you to incriminate yourself. For example, they may try to intimidate you, lie to you, or make false promises in order to get you to talk.


    Even if you are innocent, talking to the police can be risky. You may inadvertently say something that is taken out of context or that is later used against you in court. In addition, the police may use your statements to gather additional evidence against you or to pressure other witnesses to testify against you.


    If you are approached by the police or asked to give a statement, the best course of action is to politely decline and ask to speak to your attorney. Your attorney can advise you on the best course of action and can work to protect your rights throughout the legal process.

  • Can I be put on the sex offender registry?

    If you are convicted of a sex crime, it is possible that you may be required to register as a sex offender. Sex offender registration is a system that is used to track the whereabouts of convicted sex offenders and to inform the public about their presence in the community.


    The rules regarding sex offender registration vary from state to state, but in general, you may be required to register if you are convicted of a sex crime that is considered a qualifying offense. Qualifying offenses typically include serious sex crimes such as rape, sexual assault, and child molestation.


    The specific requirements for sex offender registration will depend on the state in which you were convicted. In general, you may be required to provide your name, address, and other identifying information to law enforcement, and you may be required to update this information periodically. You may also be subject to restrictions on where you can live and work, and you may be required to attend treatment programs or counseling.


    Being placed on the sex offender registry can have serious consequences for your personal and professional life. It can make it difficult to find housing, employment, and educational opportunities, and it can also make it difficult to maintain relationships with friends and family. In addition, you may be subject to harassment, discrimination, and stigma as a result of your status as a registered sex offender.


    If you are accused of a sex crime, it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand the potential consequences of a conviction, including the possibility of sex offender registration. Your attorney can work to develop a strong legal defense and to protect your rights throughout the legal process.

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