Incest accusations never fail to draw public shock and condemnation. However, if you are charged with incest you will also have to face a possible felony and lengthy prison sentence. It is critical that you hire a defense attorney who can protect your rights. A Pittsburgh incest lawyer may be able to help.
What is Incest?
It is illegal in Pennsylvania to knowingly marry, cohabit with or have sexual intercourse with:
- An ancestor or descendant, for example a parent, child, or grandparent
- A brother or sister
- A half-brother or half-sister
- An uncle, aunt, nephew or niece
The relationship of a parent and child who are related by adoption, but not blood, is also subject to incest. Incest is a felony of the second degree.
Incest of a minor is also a felony of the second degree and applies to two situations – when the other party is under the age of 13 years of age or if the other party is between 13 and 18 years of age and the person is four or more years older than the complainant.
How Incest Charges Can Harm You
An incest conviction can mean up to 10 years in prison. Other members of your family may never speak to you again or interact with you. If you’re already married, this could ruin your future and lead to divorce and custody battles. Your employer may terminate you, particularly if you interact with minors on a regular basis, and your coworkers may not wish to interact with you. You would also face mandatory sex offender registration, which would restrict your rights and your future.
Steps To Take If You Have Been Charged
If you have been charged with incest, your first step should be to immediately hire a sex crimes lawyer. Don’t talk to the police or prosecutors unless your attorney is with you. When you meet with your lawyer, give them as much information as you can about what happened that caused you to be charged with incest.
Questions? Contact me.
Your rights are at stake and you need the best defense to keep them. I will fight using the strongest defense available to get your Incest charge reduced or dismissed so you can move on with your life.
