How a Sex Offense Lawyer Handles Allegation Cases

Being accused of a sex offense is one of the most damaging legal situations a person can face. Even before charges are filed, the accusation alone can destroy reputations, careers, and personal relationships. Sex crime allegations are prosecuted aggressively — and the consequences of a conviction include mandatory registration as a sex offender, long prison sentences, and lifelong stigma. Call a reliable sexual abuse lawyer in Philadelphia.

As a criminal defense attorney with over 30 years of experience, I’ve handled sensitive, complex sex offense cases throughout the state. Here’s how I approach these difficult and high-stakes cases.

Common Sex Offense Charges

Sex-related criminal charges can range widely in severity, including:

• Sexual assault

• Rape

• Statutory sexual assault

• Indecent assault

• Child pornography offenses

• Unlawful contact with a minor

• Institutional sexual assault

• Failure to register as a sex offender

These crimes are governed by Title 18 statutes and often carry felony-level penalties, including years in prison and sex offender registration under Megan’s Law or SORNA.

Step 1: Immediate Legal Protection — Before Charges Are Filed

Many sex offense cases begin with an accusation or police investigation, not an immediate arrest. In these early stages, I work to:

• Intervene before charges are filed

• Speak directly with detectives or prosecutors

• Protect my client’s rights during questioning

• Prevent self-incrimination or illegal searches

Early legal counsel can make the difference between charges being filed or dropped.

Step 2: Carefully Analyzing the Allegations and Evidence

Sex offense cases often involve no physical evidence and rest heavily on the word of the accuser. As your defense lawyer, I examine:

• Police reports and statements

• Forensic and medical exam results (SANE exams)

• Text messages, emails, and social media

• Audio/video recordings

• Timeline inconsistencies or motives for false accusations

If consent is at issue, I gather evidence that supports a clear, mutual interaction — or shows that the accusation is untrue.

Step 3: Investigating the Accuser and Their Motives

It is crucial to evaluate:

• Prior false accusations (if any)

• Conflicting statements made to others

• Any potential personal, financial, or emotional motives

• Relationship history between the parties involved

This is handled with care and professionalism, especially when minors are involved.

Step 4: Preparing a Strategic Defense

Every case requires a tailored defense strategy, which may include:

• Consent – One of the most common defenses in adult sex cases

• Mistaken identity – Particularly in online or eyewitness-based claims

• Alibi – Evidence you were not present at the time of the alleged act

• False accusation – Based on motive, jealousy, or custody disputes

• Violation of rights – Illegal interrogation or evidence collection

Where appropriate, expert witnesses (medical, forensic, or psychological) may be used to support the defense.

Step 5: Handling Court Proceedings with Sensitivity and Precision

Sex crime cases often move through:

• Preliminary hearings

• Pre-trial motions (to exclude evidence or suppress statements)

• Psychological evaluations

• Jury trials in high-stakes situations

Every word matters in court. I guide clients on how to speak, act, and maintain composure in what is often an emotionally charged process.

Consequences of a Conviction

Conviction for a sex offense can result in:

• Mandatory sex offender registration

• Incarceration, often for several years

• Parole restrictions and loss of employment

• Lifetime social and professional consequences

That’s why these cases require experienced, thorough, and aggressive defense from the very beginning.

Accused of a Sex Crime? Get Legal Help Immediately.

If you’ve been accused of a sex-related offense — or even questioned by police — do not wait. Speaking with law enforcement without a lawyer present can irreparably harm your defense. You need a skilled attorney who understands both the law and the sensitivity required to handle these cases. To protect victims and others, I also provide service as a child sexual abuse lawyer in Philadelphia.

With over 30 years of experience, I provide discreet, strategic representation for individuals facing sex crime allegations. Contact Mark D. Hauser, Attorney at Law today to schedule a confidential, judgment-free consultation.