COLUMBUS SEX CRIMES LAWYER
Sex Crimes
Protecting Your Rights When Facing Sex Crime Charges in Ohio
Being accused of a sex crime can have devastating consequences. Beyond legal penalties, a conviction can impact where you live, where you work, and how you live your life for years. Your only option is to fight—and you don’t have to do it alone.
For more than 20 years, I’ve dedicated my practice to defending individuals against sex crime charges in Columbus, Ohio. I understand how overwhelming these allegations can be, and my team and I are committed to guiding you through the legal process, protecting your rights, and fighting to achieve the best possible outcome.
Understanding Sex Crimes in Ohio
Sex crimes encompass a wide range of offenses, including:
- Sexual assault & rape
- Child pornography
- Indecent exposure
- Sexual battery & harassment
- Online sex-related offenses
Ohio law treats these offenses very seriously, and penalties can include long-term imprisonment, hefty fines, and mandatory sex offender registration.
Potential Penalties for Sex Crimes
| Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First-degree felony sexual assault | 3–11 years in prison, fines up to $20,000 |
| Child pornography possession | 1–8 years in prison, fines vary |
| Indecent exposure (misdemeanor) | Up to 6 months jail, fines up to $1,000 |
| Aggravated sexual battery | Up to 15 years in prison, fines up to $25,000 |
Given the serious consequences, securing skilled legal defense is essential.
How I Can Defend You
Every case is different. My team develops a defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common strategies include:
- Challenging the evidence: We investigate whether evidence was lawfully obtained and can be used in court.
- Lack of intent: Many sex crime cases require proof of intent. If intent cannot be established, charges may be reduced or dismissed.
- Consent: In certain cases, consent or the context of interactions can challenge the allegations.
- Mistaken identity or false accusations: We work to prove innocence when you’ve been wrongly accused.
I leave no stone unturned—from interviewing witnesses to consulting forensic experts—to ensure the strongest defense possible.
What Our Clients
Are Saying
How we can help you beat a sex crime charge
01
Expertise in Sex Crime Defense
We specialize in sex crime defense, and we have successfully defended numerous clients against charges such as sexual assault, rape, child pornography, indecent exposure, and more. We have an in-depth understanding of the laws surrounding these offenses and stay updated with the latest legal developments.
02
Protecting Your Rights
We strongly believe in upholding the rights of the accused. Throughout the legal process, we will ensure that your rights are protected, and we will advocate for fair treatment at every stage, including interactions with law enforcement, investigations, negotiations, and courtroom proceedings.
03
Strategic Defense Planning
Each case is unique, and we tailor our defense strategies to the specific circumstances of your case. Our meticulous approach involves analyzing evidence, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and developing a strong defense strategy to challenge the charges against you.
04
Building a Solid Defense
We will investigate every avenue, confer with forensic experts, and work tirelessly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a robust defense on your behalf. We promise you that we will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of securing the best possible outcome for you. When you win, we win.
05
Negotiation and Trial Advocacy
While we strive to resolve cases through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods, we are always prepared to go to trial if necessary. We are adept at presenting persuasive arguments and will fight tirelessly for your innocence in the courtroom. We won't recommend a plea deal unless that is in your best interest.
Why choose us?
When facing a sex crime charge in Ohio, you need an attorney who understands the unique aspects of the criminal justice system.
Personalized Defense
You won't be just another case number. We take the time to get to know you and understand the details of your situation. You'll get the attention your case and your future deserve.
Local Experience
Years of experience in Columbus courtrooms have allowed us to build professional relationships with local prosecutors and judges that can benefit your case through more productive negotiations and respected advocacy.
Highly Recommended
Most of my clients come from word of mouth. My past clients know how I've helped them and they recommend me to their family and friends. That's the best endorsement I could ask for.
Proven Results
We get the results you need while taking a human-based approach. We care about you, we're here for you, and we recognize this is the toughest time of your life.
Talk to Nathan Akamine for FREE
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, let's talk.
Take Action Now
Facing a sex crime charge in Ohio is stressful, but acting quickly can make all the difference. Contact me today for a free case review.
Call (614) 443-6818 or fill out our online form to schedule a confidential consultation. Early intervention is key to protecting your rights and your future.
FREE CASE REVIEW
Common Questions
What qualifies as a sex crime in Ohio?
Sex crimes in Ohio include offenses such as rape, sexual battery, unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, gross sexual imposition, importuning (online solicitation), and public indecency.
What’s the difference between rape and sexual battery?
Rape usually involves non-consensual sexual conduct by force or threat, while sexual battery may involve coercion, authority abuse, or lack of consent without necessarily using force.
Can I be charged with a sex crime for something that happened online?
Yes. Online solicitations, sending explicit materials to minors, or engaging in sexual conversations with intent can lead to charges like importuning.
What should I do if I’ve been accused of a sex crime?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Immediately contact Nathan Akamine.
Can I clear my name by cooperating?
You may think cooperation helps, but it can harm your defense. Let us guide all communications.
Should I take a polygraph test?
Only if we advise you to. Polygraph results are not admissible in Ohio courts, but can influence investigative decisions.
What are the potential penalties for a sex crime conviction in Ohio?
Penalties range from months to life in prison, depending on the offense. Many sex crimes are felonies and include mandatory prison time. Additional penalties may include sex offender registration and civil commitment.
Are all sex crimes felonies?
No. Some, like public indecency or sexual imposition, may be misdemeanors depending on the circumstances.
Can I avoid prison with a plea deal?
Possibly, depending on the charge and evidence. We may negotiate for reduced penalties.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Most sex crimes in Ohio require registration as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). The registration period depends on your tier level (Tier I, II, or III).
How long does registration last?
It ranges from 15 years (Tier I) to lifetime (Tier III), with varying reporting requirements.
Can I be removed from the registry?
In limited cases, yes, especially for Tier I offenders after meeting specific conditions.
Can I be charged with a sex crime if the alleged victim consented?
Consent is a defense in many cases, but there are exceptions, especially involving minors, impaired individuals, or those under authority. Ohio law states individuals under 13 cannot legally consent.
What is the age of consent in Ohio?
It’s 16, but exceptions apply if the older person is in a position of authority or if the younger person is under 13.
What if the minor lied about their age?
Mistake of age is not always a defense under Ohio law, especially if the victim is under 13.
What happens if I’m convicted of a sex crime?
You may face prison time, mandatory registration, parole restrictions, limits on housing and employment, and lifelong public scrutiny. Certain convictions also restrict contact with minors or internet use. Don't worry, we will fight for you. Don't wait to call us.
Can I live near a school or park?
Tier III offenders cannot live within 1,000 feet of schools or daycares.
Can I appeal or seek post-conviction relief?
Yes. You have the right to appeal, and other remedies like sentence modification or expungement (in rare cases) may be available.
How do I hire you as my criminal defense lawyer?
Getting started is easy. Simply contact our office to schedule a free case review. We will discuss the details of your case, answer any additional questions you may have, and determine the best course of action to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome.
What is considered “intent to distribute”?
Intent to distribute may be inferred from the quantity of the drug, packaging materials, scales, or large sums of money. No actual sale is required; circumstantial evidence may be used to support the charge.
Is quantity alone enough to prove intent?
Sometimes. Larger amounts raise suspicion, but packaging and paraphernalia strengthen the case.
Do I have to be caught selling?
No, the law allows circumstantial evidence to support intent.
