Sexual Assault
Trusted Legal Representation for Sexual Assault Accusations
We understand that accusations of sexual assault can have serious implications, permanently altering lives. As well as the significant legal consequences, they can also have enduring effects on your reputation, relationships and future prospects.
It is essential that you receive a strong defence to protect your rights. Our team of experienced solicitors specialise in defending individuals facing allegations of sexual assault. We approach each case with meticulous attention to detail which enables us to develop a personalised defence strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Comprehensive Legal Support
We offer comprehensive legal support throughout every stage of your case, starting from the initial accusation, through police questioning and courtroom representation. Our services include conducting thorough investigations, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses and collaborating with expert witnesses to construct a robust defence strategy
We are known for our client centred approach and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for every client we represent. Confidentiality, discretion, and respect are fundamental values for us, and we handle all cases with the highest level of privacy.
Know Your Rights
If you are facing an allegation of sexual assault, it is important you know your rights and what the challenges ahead will be. Contact us for a confidential consultation where our experienced defence solicitors offer expert legal advice and guidance.
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How can KANGS help?
Our team of specialist solicitors provide the following services:
- Initial Consultation and Legal Advice: Confidential consultation to discuss the case details, provide an initial assessment and advise on legal rights and options.
- Police interviews: representation during police interviews, ensuring our client's rights are protected.
- Representation at a voluntary interview under caution
- Representation at an interview under caution following arrest
- Preparation of pre-charge representations to the CPS or Police
- Representation in Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court proceedings
- Recommendations on selecting a barrister or King's Counsel (KC), as the cross-examination of the complainant and other prosecution witnesses often plays a pivotal role in court proceedings.
Contact KANGS
The expert lawyers at KANGS are available to assist you. We can arrange initial consultations in person, by video call or telephone.
Please contact one of our experts listed below or contact us at:
What is considered sexual assault?
The Legislation:
Section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 defines the offence of sexual assault as:
(1) A person (A) commits an offence if—
(a) he intentionally touches another person (B),
(b) the touching is sexual,
(c) B does not consent to the touching, and
(d) A does not reasonably believe that B consents.
(2) Whether a belief is reasonable is to be determined having regard to all the circumstances, including, any steps A has taken to ascertain whether B consents.
What is the difference between rape and sexual assault?
Sexual assault is often mentioned alongside rape. However, sexual assault is covered by Section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 and specifically involves ‘a person intentionally ‘touching’ another person in a sexual manner without their consent. This touching can be done using any part of the body or an object.’
Touching is widely defined and includes touching another person with any part of the body, or with anything else. Touching can be through clothing.
The Court Procedure
The offence of sexual assault is an either way offence which can be dealt with in the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.
The maximum sentence for sexual assault is 10 years imprisonment.
A number of matters will be taken into account when sentencing an individual convicted of this offence such as:
- the nature of the touching
- the effect or vulnerability of the victim
- the offender’s previous convictions.
Further details in relation to sentencing guidelines for sexual offences can be found here.
What does the offence involve?
- The offence covers intentional touching.
- If the touching is accidental, no offence will have been committed.
- The touching can be to any part of the body and with any part of the body or with anything else.
- It also does not have to have been to the skin. The offence can be committed over clothing.
- The offence can be committed by a man or a woman.
- The issue in relation to whether the touching was sexual, in accordance with the section 2 offence of assault by penetration , will be for the jury to decide having heard all the facts of the case.
- The issues surrounding consent apply equally as they do to the offence of rape, which you can read about here.
Who Can I Contact For Advice & Help?
It is imperative that you instruct an experienced solicitor as soon as you are aware of an allegation being made.
Crucially, it is always important to have a solicitor present in interview at the police station, whether it is an interview by appointment or under arrest.
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