Chattanooga Sexual Battery Lawyer

Sexual battery is one of the most serious sex crimes in Tennessee. If you are charged with this offense, you could face time in prison and be required to register as a sex offender. The state will aggressively prosecute these cases, and you will need an attorney who will fight for your rights and protect your interests. At Best And Brock, our sexual battery attorneys in Chattanooga are dedicated to delivering our clients with the best legal representation possible.

Call Best And Brock today at (423) 829-1043 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our sexual battery attorney in Chattanooga.

What is Sexual Battery?

Sexual battery is considered a serious criminal offense in Tennessee that involves unwanted sexual contact or conduct without the consent of the victim. This can encompass a wide range of actions, from touching intimate parts of another person's body to engaging in sexual acts without their consent. It's important to note that consent is a critical element in determining whether an act qualifies as sexual battery. If the victim does not willingly agree to the contact, it can lead to criminal charges.

Tennessee law categorizes sexual battery into two degrees:

• Aggravated Sexual Battery: This is a more severe form of sexual battery and typically involves the use of force or coercion to commit the act. The penalties for aggravated sexual battery are more severe and can include significant prison time.
• Sexual Battery: This is a less severe form of sexual battery and does not necessarily involve force or coercion. However, it is still a serious offense, and those convicted may face imprisonment, probation, fines, and registration as a sex offender.

It's essential to understand that sexual battery charges can differ widely depending on the specific circumstances of the case. The prosecution will consider elements such as the age of the victim, the relationship between the parties, and whether there were any prior criminal convictions.

What are the Penalties for Sexual Battery in Tennessee?

The punishments for a sexual battery conviction in Tennessee can be severe and life-altering. The penalties you may face can include:

• Imprisonment: Depending on the degree of the particular offense and other factors, you may be sentenced to a significant term in prison, with no option for parole.
• Probation: In some cases, a court may order probation in lieu of or in addition to a prison sentence. During probation, you will be subject to strict conditions and supervision.
• Fines: Conviction can result in substantial fines that can have a significant financial impact.
• Sex Offender Registration: If convicted of sexual battery, you may be required to register as a sex offender. This can have a profound effect on your personal and professional life, including restrictions on where you can live and work.
• Criminal Record: A conviction for sexual battery will leave you with a criminal record, which can affect your future employment and housing opportunities.