Dedicated Defense Attorneys For Sex Crime Charges In Milwaukee
When you or a member of your family is accused of a crime, your entire world is placed under a microscope. In Milwaukee, allegations involving sex crimes can carry a social and legal weight. At Cleghorn Jones Trial Attorneys, our criminal defense attorneys do not shy away from these difficult and often high-stakes cases. Since 2003, our lawyers have been standing up for the rights of individuals facing sex crime charges in southeast Wisconsin. They are ready to provide the aggressive defense necessary to protect your freedom and future.
Common Examples Of Sex Crime Charges In Wisconsin
Our attorneys provide defense for a wide range of allegations, including:
- Sexual assault: These cases involve sexual contact without consent or in situations where someone cannot legally say “yes.” Charges can range from first to fourth degree, depending on the presence of force, the use of a weapon or the age of the parties involved.
- Possession of child pornography: Often referred to in federal contexts as child sexual abuse material (CSAM), these cases involve the possession, production or sharing of prohibited digital photos or videos of minors. These cases often depend on technical evidence from phones or computers.
- Internet-based crimes: Our team defends against charges involving online chats, “sting” operations or claims of “child enticement.” These cases often focus on digital messages that the state uses to claim someone was trying to lure a minor or plan a crime.
These charges often rely on what a witness says rather than physical proof such as DNA. Because of this, having a skilled lawyer is necessary from the very start of the investigation to protect your side of the story.
With over 40 years of combined experience, attorneys Kerri Cleghorn and Russell J.A. Jones have earned a reputation for providing fearless and assertive defense in cases that other firms often find too difficult to try. Their strength lies in their “trial-first” mentality. They meticulously prepare every case as if it is headed for a jury, ensuring that your rights are vigorously protected and that the prosecution is held to its highest burden of proof.
The Long-Term Consequences Of A Conviction
The impact of a conviction can extend far beyond the walls of a courtroom or a jail cell. The Wisconsin legal system can impose lasting restrictions that may affect your ability to live a normal life for decades. The potential consequences often include:
- Sex offender registration: This is a public listing that can restrict where a person can live, where they work and how they can move through their community.
- Impact on parental rights: Accusations can trigger investigations by social services, which may result in temporary separation or restricted contact with one’s children.
- Employment barriers: Most employers conduct background checks that will flag these specific types of convictions, often leading to immediate disqualification.
- Supervised release: Even after serving time, individuals may face years of intensive monitoring and strict behavioral requirements.
Whether the accused is an adult or a juvenile, the goal of our lawyers is to mitigate these outcomes and fight for a resolution that preserves your liberty.
Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Sex Crimes Defense
It’s normal to feel confused and anxious if you are facing sex crime charges. You may have many questions about your case and what might happen. While it’s best to have your specific case assessed directly by our attorneys, below are short answers to some questions we often receive from our clients.
If I refuse to talk to the police, won’t it appear I’m guilty?
Choosing to remain silent is a constitutional right, not an admission of guilt. In fact, speaking to law enforcement without an attorney present often provides the prosecution with statements that can be taken out of context. Silence is a tool used to protect your rights.
If there’s no physical evidence, doesn’t an accusation have to fail in court?
Unfortunately, no. Wisconsin courts consider witness testimony as evidence. An accusation can proceed to trial even without DNA or forensic data, which is why having an experienced lawyer to cross-examine witnesses and highlight inconsistencies is vital.
How Our Trial Lawyers Fight For Your Rights
Our lawyers are trial attorneys who approach every case with the expectation that it may go to a verdict. With decades of combined experience, they do not simply wait for a plea deal. Instead, they prepare every case for the courtroom from day one.
In Milwaukee and Waukesha, the prosecution has vast resources to build its case against you. To level the playing field, you need an attorney who is assertive and devoted to your individual rights. At Cleghorn Jones Trial Attorneys, our lawyers offer a tailored and relentless approach. They will review your specific charges, analyze every detail of the arresting events and develop a defensive plan geared toward your specific goals.
Our team also has a history of securing favorable outcomes in high-pressure situations across southeast Wisconsin. While every case is different, our past successful cases reflect our commitment to fighting for the justice and freedom our clients deserve.
Get A Free Case Evaluation Today
If you or your child is facing a serious allegation, the time to act is now. Our lawyers are ready to stand by your side and provide the zealous representation your family needs during this challenging time. Please call our Milwaukee office at 414-567-9241 or fill out our secure online form to schedule your free initial consultation.