Indiana Child Molestation Defense Attorney
Being accused of a sexual crime can be devastating. The stakes are even higher when you’re charged with sexual activity with a minor. Convictions can mean the end of your life as you know it, and allegations are enough to throw a shadow over your reputation and your life.
Finding the right Bloomington child molestation defense lawyer can mean all the difference in protecting your future. Attorney Allison Chopra is here to listen without judgment. She offers her experience and aggressive legal support when you need it most. You need a strong defense to fight these charges and to clear your name.
Don’t wait if you’ve been accused of sexual activity with a minor — call Chopra Criminal Defense now for your free consultation. (812) 671-0103.
What is Child Molestation in Indiana?
Under Indiana Code § 35-42-4-3, child molestation is defined as knowingly or intentionally engaging in sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with a child under the age of 14. This includes actions performed by or on the accused and the child.
The offense is categorized as follows:
- Level 3 Felony: Sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with a child under 14 years old, punishable by six to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
- Level 4 Felony: Fondling or touching, intended to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of either the child or the accused, punishable by two to 12 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Aggravating Circumstances: Level 1 and Level 2 Felonies
Certain factors can elevate child molestation charges to more severe felony levels:
Level 1 Felony (20 to 40 years imprisonment):
- The accused is at least 21 years old.
- The crime involved deadly force or the use of a deadly weapon.
- The act resulted in serious bodily injury.
- The offense was facilitated by providing drugs or controlled substances to the victim without their knowledge.
- The crime resulted in the transmission of a dangerous sexually transmitted disease, and the accused was aware of their infection.
Level 2 Felony (10 to 30 years imprisonment):
- The offense involved the use or threat of deadly force.
- The accused was armed with a deadly weapon.
- Drugs or controlled substances were provided to the victim without their knowledge.
Affirmative Defense
Indiana law allows defendants to argue an affirmative defense if they reasonably believed the child was 16 years old at the time of the alleged offense. However, this defense is unavailable if:
- Deadly force or weapons were involved.
- The victim was provided drugs or controlled substances.
Penalties for Child Molestation in Indiana
Convictions for child molestation carry severe penalties, including:
- Level 3 Felony: Six to 20 years imprisonment, up to $10,000 in fines.
- Level 4 Felony: Two to 12 years imprisonment, up to $10,000 in fines.
- Level 1 Felony: 20 to 40 years imprisonment, up to $10,000 in fines.
- Level 2 Felony: 10 to 30 years imprisonment, up to $10,000 in fines.
Beyond prison time and fines, a conviction requires lifetime registration as a sex offender, along with other collateral consequences, such as limited housing options, restricted employment opportunities, and societal stigma.
The Consequences of a Child Molestation Allegation
Even accusations of child molestation can have devastating impacts on your life, including:
- Strained personal and professional relationships.
- Loss of employment.
- Restricted access to children, including your own.
- Emotional and psychological stress.
A conviction amplifies these consequences, creating lifelong obstacles that are difficult to overcome.
Defending Against Child Molestation Charges
At Chopra Criminal Defense, we understand the gravity of child molestation charges and are dedicated to providing a robust defense for our clients. Prosecutors bear the burden of proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and our job is to challenge every aspect of their case.
Common Defense Strategies
- Lack of Evidence: Challenging insufficient or circumstantial evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Mistaken Identity: Demonstrating that the accused was not the person who committed the alleged offense.
- Consent Misunderstanding: Proving that the defendant reasonably believed the child was of legal age (where applicable).
- Fabrication or False Accusations: Highlighting motives for the accuser to lie or fabricate the allegations.
- Alibi: Providing evidence that the accused was not present when the alleged offense occurred.
The Right Evidence Can Support Your Defense
We collect and analyze all available evidence to support your defense, including:
- Witness testimony.
- Digital evidence such as emails or texts.
- Surveillance footage or other physical evidence.
- Expert opinions, including forensic analysis.
Why Choose Chopra Criminal Defense?
Facing child molestation charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Chopra Criminal Defense, we bring years of experience and an unwavering commitment to our clients’ defense.
Attorney Allison Chopra’s experience as a prosecutor provides her a unique insight into what you are facing and makes her a capable sex crimes defense lawyer. We offer an approach that fits your needs, and we are transparent from the start.
We understand the nuances of Indiana’s criminal justice system and the unique challenges of defending against sex crime charges. Getting started on your defense is critical — do not hesitate to call us. We are ready to hear your story and help you when you’re under investigation.
Contact an Indiana Child Molestation Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing child molestation charges in Indiana, time is of the essence. The sooner you secure experienced legal representation, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. At Chopra Criminal Defense, we are ready to stand by your side and fight for your future.
Call us today at (812) 671-0103 or fill out our online consultation form to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate this challenging time with strength, knowledge, and determination.