Welcome to the official blog of B. Hicks Law, your trusted criminal defense law firm. We understand that facing criminal charges is an overwhelming experience, and it's our commitment to provide expert guidance, support, and legal representation without passing judgment. In this article, we'll delve into the legal intricacies of child solicitation under Indiana law and how our experienced attorneys can help protect your rights and ensure a fair legal process.
Understanding Child Solicitation Child solicitation, as defined under Indiana Code (IC) 35-42-4-6, is a serious offense that involves soliciting a child to engage in sexual activities. The law categorizes child solicitation into different degrees, each carrying its own set of penalties.
Child Solicitation - Level 5 Felony If a person aged 18 or older knowingly or intentionally solicits a child under 14 years of age, or someone they believe to be a child under 14, to engage in sexual intercourse, sexual conduct, or any fondling or touching meant to arouse sexual desires, it constitutes a Level 5 felony. However, if certain aggravating factors are present, such as the use of a computer network or a prior conviction for a similar offense, the charge can be elevated to a Level 4 felony.
Child Solicitation - Level 4 Felony A Level 4 felony charge can be filed when the offense includes solicitation through a computer network and subsequent travel to meet the child or individual believed to be a child. It can also be elevated to a Level 4 felony if the accused has a prior unrelated conviction for child solicitation. Child Solicitation - Level 5 Felony (Ages 14-16) For individuals aged 21 or older, soliciting a child aged at least 14 but less than 16 years for sexual activities is classified as a Level 5 felony. Similar to the Level 4 felony, the charges can be elevated to a Level 4 felony for specific aggravating factors. It's important to note that in a prosecution under this section, the state is not required to prove that the solicitation was for immediate sexual acts, making the law even more encompassing.
How B. Hicks Law Can Help
Being accused of child solicitation is a serious matter that can have profound legal, social, and personal consequences. At B. Hicks Law, we approach every case with compassion and a commitment to ensuring that every individual's rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in Indiana's criminal laws, including child solicitation cases. We offer the following support to our clients:
Expert Legal Counsel: We provide expert legal advice and guidance to help you understand your rights and options.
Thorough Case Review: We meticulously review the evidence, identifying any potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Strategic Defense: We build a strong defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case, aiming to secure the best possible outcome.
Negotiation and Litigation: We negotiate with prosecutors when possible and vigorously represent our clients in court when needed.
Protecting Your Reputation: We understand the potential harm to your reputation and personal life, and we work to minimize these consequences.
Facing child solicitation charges can be a daunting experience, but you don't have to navigate the legal system alone. B. Hicks Law is here to provide you with the expert legal representation and support you need during this challenging time. Our team of dedicated attorneys is committed to ensuring that you receive fair treatment under the law and that your rights are protected.
If you or someone you know is facing child solicitation charges, don't hesitate to contact us for a confidential consultation. We are here to help, and you can trust us to provide compassionate, non-judgmental legal support throughout your case.