Charged with Incest in Pennsylvania? We Can Help
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, our Pennsylvania sex crime defense lawyers are extremely proficient at helping our clients avoid the convictions that can ruin lives.
We’re also capable of navigating the complexities of sexual misconduct and other criminal offenses to ensure our clients’ rights are protected.
For legal guidance and a free consultation with a knowledgeable incest defense attorney, call (412) 281-2146 or contact us online. Worgul, Sarna & Ness provides experienced statewide representation and is dedicated to advocating for you.
Statewide Representation for Sex Offenses
Based in Pittsburgh, Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys offer comprehensive and aggressive legal representation for those accused of sex offenses throughout the Commonwealth.
332 Fifth Avenue, 1st Floor,
Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2437
Incest Laws in Pennsylvania: An Overview
Incest accusations never fail to draw public shock and condemnation. If you’ve been charged with incest, you’ll also have to fight to avoid a felony conviction and lengthy prison sentence.
Defining Incest Charges in Pennsylvania
Simply put, incest is illegal in Pennsylvania. 18 Pa. Code §4302 states that someone can be charged with incest if they knowingly marry, cohabitate with, or have sexual intercourse with anyone who is related by blood or even someone who is adopted into the family.
Put simply, you cannot have an intimate relationship with anyone who is your:
- Ancestor (a parent or grandparent)
- Descendant (child)
- Sibling (full or half)
- Uncle or aunt
- Nephew or niece
An Exception to Incest Charges
Under Pennsylvania law, cohabitation or sexual intercourse between cousins is not considered incest. They would not be permitted to get a marriage license, however.
Penalties for Pennsylvania Incest Convictions
Incest and incest with a minor are considered second-degree felonies in the Commonwealth.
If convicted, you could receive up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000. You may also face a mandatory sex offender registration, which depends on the court’s purview.
Collateral Consequences for Incest Convictions in PA
Besides the legal ramifications of incest accusations or convictions, you may face other consequences.
Incest charges or convictions can devastate your life. It can bring:
- Shattered family bonds:Strained or broken relationships.
- Social isolation:Judgment, ostracization, and reputational damage.
- Career roadblocks:Job loss and difficulty finding new employment.
- Sex offender registration:Restrictions on housing, travel, and careers.
- Lingering emotional trauma:Anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles.
What Should I Do if I’m Charged with Incest in PA?
Being charged with incest is a serious and stressful situation. Even if it feels like you’ve already been convicted, you are innocent until proven guilty.
Take advantage of your rights, and remember that you don’t have to handle your criminal charges alone.
Take these steps to protect your freedom and your future:
Contact an Experienced Pennsylvania Sex Crimes Attorney Immediately
Don’t delay. Incest charges are complex and often involve sensitive details. An attorney with experience and knowledge of Pennsylvania’s sex crimes will understand the intricacies of these cases.
They can help you investigate your case and help you develop potential defenses. They will be your strongest advocate throughout the legal process.
Remain Silent and Don’t Speak to Law Enforcement
You have the right to remain silent. Don’t answer any questions from the police or prosecutors without your lawyer present.
Your attorney can advise you on what to say and how to protect your rights. The prosecution cannot use the fact that you remained silent against you.
Gather Any Evidence That May Be Helpful
Your defense will be built on anything that can cast doubt on the prosecution’s case. If there’s any evidence that can support your innocence, bring it to your attorney’s attention.
That includes documentation, witness testimony, or anything else that can help clarify the situation.
Be Honest and Upfront With Your Lawyer
When you meet with your attorney, provide a complete and truthful account of the events that led to the charges. Transparency is essential for building a strong defense strategy.
And remember, your attorney is one of your strongest allies in this challenging time.
Attorney Matthew Ness Will Listen & Fight for You
As a defense attorney, Matthew Ness believes that the rights of people accused of crimes are worth upholding and fighting for. He does that every day as a trial defense lawyer. Matthew upholds his clients’ rights to fair and speedy trials, just punishment, and not having rights violated. He’s ready to help you in your sex crimes case. He understands what’s at stake.
More About Matthew NessWhy Choose Worgul, Sarna & Ness?
Our attorneys bring a wealth of experience, and prior success in assisting people combat their incest charges by aggressively defending them against sexual offense allegations.
Our Pennsylvania sex crime defense law firm is recognized for:
- Skill & Impressive Results in Sex Offense Cases
- Exhaustive Independent Investigations & Tailored Strategies
- Client-Focused Representation & Comprehensive Advocacy
- Statewide Availability & Ongoing Legal Support
Client Reviews
Absolutely amazing, substantially better results than what I thought, very aggressive in defending people, would 110% recommend these guys every time!
Read More ReviewsNotable Case Results
Acquittal for Client Charged With Multiple Sex Crimes
When an Allegheny County man was falsely accused of raping his minor daughter, he trusted the accomplished sex crimes defense attorneys at Worgul, Sarna & Ness, LLC to protect his reputation.
View Case DetailsWorried about Incest Charges in PA? Get a Free Consultation
If you’re concerned about getting convicted of incest in Pennsylvania or need help clearing your name after being charged, you need to take the matter seriously. Seek legal counsel immediately. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, LLC, our team handles sex offense cases across the state. We work with you to craft effective defenses to protect your reputation, rights, and freedom.
Don’t wait to protect yourself and your future. Call (412) 281-2146. An experienced sex crimes defense lawyer will explain your options and what your next steps should be.
Areas Served
Our sex crime lawyers are based in Pittsburgh, but assist clients charged with sexual offenses throughout Pennsylvania. Some of the areas we serve are:
- Allentown
- Beaver
- Bensalem
- Butler
- Carlisle
- Erie
- Greensburg
- Harrisburg
- Lancaster
- Philadelphia
- Pittsburgh
- Reading
- Scranton
- Washington