What are sexual offences?

The term ‘sexual offences’ covers a variety of offences, ranging from non-consensual sexual touching to violent rape. Just some examples of sexual offences in connection with which we have defended minors include:

• Rape
• Sexual assault
• Assault by Penetration
• Possessing Indecent Images
• Sexual communication with a child
  

Who is classed as a child by law?

Children reach the age of criminal responsibility in the UK at 10. Anyone under the age of 18 is classed as a child by the law. Accordingly, anyone between the ages of 10 and 17 is treated as a child or young person for the purposes of sexual offences. 

Are there any defences to allegations of sexual offences?

Whether your child has a defence to the sexual offence allegations depends on the nature of the offence and the circumstances.

For example, if your child has been accused of offences relating to indecent images, they may be able to defend the allegations on the basis that they did not ask for the images to be sent to them and deleted them when they realised what they were. 

What is the sentence for sexual offences?

The range of sexual offences is wide, and so too is the range of possible sentences that your child may receive if convicted of one. The youth justice system appreciates that children and young people are less emotionally mature than adults, and judges take this into account when sentencing them for sexual offences.

Your child’s sentence will be based on a variety of factors unique to them and their situation, including their age. When deciding on the appropriate sentence, the judge will start by considering the nature of the offence your child is charged with. Generally speaking, the more serious the offence, the more severe the penalty.

Next, the judge will consider whether there are any specific factors that make your child’s crime more or less serious. For example, crimes that involved significant forward planning or where the victim was deliberately humiliated may warrant a more stringent sentence. On the other hand, factors such as your child having been bullied into committing the crime or having a previously exemplary character can encourage a judge to be more lenient.

Detention is always a last resort in cases concerning minors. Wherever possible, the courts try to use other penalties, such as Youth Rehabilitation Orders, which are community sentences aimed at changing the child’s behaviour. That said, children and young people can be detained for sexual offences, particularly if the offence is a serious one. 

How can Jericho Law help?

At Jericho Law, we are expert criminal law solicitors. Both the firm and many of our solicitors are recognised as leaders in the field by the guides to the UK legal profession, the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners. Our specialist experience of working with young people gives us a unique perspective into their thought processes, allows us to gain their trust, and do our very best for them.

We recognise that your child being charged with a sexual offence can have disastrous consequences on their future and long-term prospects. With that in mind, our primary aim is always to avoid charges being brought. We have developed a recognised niche in pre-charge investigations for those accused of sexual offences, and we have a proven track record of avoiding legal action being taken against our clients. Involving us in the early stages of an investigation into your child’s conduct can be the difference between your child being charged with a sexual offence and the matter being dropped.

If your child is charged with a sexual offence, we will do everything in our power to secure the most lenient penalty possible for your child. We will painstakingly gather evidence in support of their defence, and prepare a robust case to present to court. We will guide you and your child through the court process, offering support and reassurance at every stage.

Get in touch today

Given the severity of sexual offence charges, taking prompt legal advice on behalf of your child is crucial in securing a positive outcome. Contact our specialist team today to discuss your situation and learn more about how we can help you and your child.