Sexual interference is a serious criminal offense involving sexual activity with a person under the age of consent. This crime carries severe legal and personal consequences.
What is Sexual Interference?
Under the Criminal Code of Canada, sexual interference occurs when an adult touches a person under 16 years old for a sexual purpose. This contact can be direct (e.g., with hands) or indirect (e.g., with an object). The law focuses on the adult’s intent, not necessarily the child’s perception.
Penalties for Sexual Interference
Convictions for sexual interference result in severe penalties, including:
- Mandatory minimum sentences: The Criminal Code imposes mandatory minimum jail terms for these offenses. As of 2019, this is currently in abeyance in many provinces.
- Imprisonment: Up to 14 years for indictable offenses, or up to two years less a day for summary conviction offenses.
- Sex offender registry: Convicted individuals must register as sex offenders, leading to decades-long (and sometimes lifelong) restrictions and social stigma.
The Impact on Your Life
Beyond legal consequences, a sexual interference charge can have a devastating impact on your life. You may face:
- Social isolation: Loss of friends, family, and community support.
- Job loss: Difficulty maintaining employment due to the nature of the charges.
- Psychological distress: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
How We Can Help
Facing a sexual interference charge is overwhelming. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights and build a strong defense. At Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers, our team of experienced lawyers understands the complexities of sexual interference cases. We will:
- Thoroughly investigate the evidence: We scrutinize the Crown’s case to identify weaknesses and inconsistencies.
- Build a strong defense: We develop effective strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
- Protect your rights: We ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
- Provide support and guidance: We offer compassionate support and explain the legal process clearly.
Contact Us Today
If you or someone you know is facing a sexual interference charge, time is of the essence. Contact Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers for a confidential consultation.