Child Molestation

Child Molestation Charges

An accusation of child molestation is one of the most serious allegations that face those charged in the criminal courts.  Just the accusation is enough to break up families, cause loss of employment, and isolation of the accused.  Even those that are eventually exonerated of child molestation are affected in the long term.  At Newton & Hall we know what a traumatic experience this is, and can offer the help you need.  We know that even the most supportive family members are conflicted when an allegation of child molestation is raised.  We are used to fighting for our clients, and can handle even the most serious cases.

The Court's Reaction To Allegations of Child Molestation

When prosecutors allege child molestation at the initial arraignment of a defendant, they often will ask that during the pendency of the case the defendant have no contact with minor children whatsoever, even when they are parents of the children.  We know that this can have huge consequences for parents and families, and regularly petition and win exceptions from these conditions.  We understand the legal landscape, and what can be done to handle the court's concerns that additional abuse could happen unless families are separated.

The court is aware that charges like these can even warrant a life sentence for a person accused of a first offense.   Please review our indeterminate sentencing page, to see how this sentencing scheme works.

Defending False Allegations of Child Molestation In Washington State

At Newton & Hall, we are used to handling high stakes trials regarding these cases.  We have expert witnesses, at our service, to offer a counterpoint to the state's doctors and experts.  We have a private investigation team ready to pursue alternate suspects, and able to refute the state's investigation.  While these are incredibly difficult cases, we are ready to take them on and fight to win.

Treatment and Help is Available for Those who Need It

Good people do make mistakes, and for those that want to seek help it is available.  Depending on the charges you face, the nature of your relationship with the victim, and your willingness to engage in meaningful treatment, there may be a way to seek mercy from the court and prosecutor.  There are sentencing alternatives available that may eliminate the need to serve jail or prison time, or at least limit the amount of time you do have to serve.

When you are facing serious criminal charges we can help. Call us at (253) 867-2675 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our tem of criminal defense attorneys in are standing by. 

Child Molestation in the First Degree RCW 9A.44.083

Child molestation in the first degree is the most serious charge in this category, and concerns a victim under 12 years of age..  A single offense can bring a sentence ranging from 51 - 68 months in prison, for a defendant that has never been accused of a crime before.  The crime itself is defined as:

(1) A person is guilty of child molestation in the first degree when the person has, or knowingly causes another person under the age of eighteen to have, sexual contact with another who is less than twelve years old and not married to the perpetrator and the perpetrator is at least thirty-six months older than the victim.
(2) Child molestation in the first degree is a class A felony.

This charge carries with it a lifetime sexual offender registration requirement.

Child Molestation in the Second Degree RCW 9A.44.086

The elements of Child molestation in the second degree are the same as those in the first degree, differing only with regard to the age of the victim.  If the crime is committed against a victim who is older than 12 and younger than 14, then this statute applies.  A single offense can result in a prison sentence of 15 - 20 months for a defendant with no previous criminal history.  

(1) A person is guilty of child molestation in the second degree when the person has, or knowingly causes another person under the age of eighteen to have, sexual contact with another who is at least twelve years old but less than fourteen years old and not married to the perpetrator and the perpetrator is at least thirty-six months older than the victim.
(2) Child molestation in the second degree is a class B felony.

This charge carries with it a 15 year sexual offender registration requirement.

Child Molestation in the Third Degree RCW 9A.44.089

Child molestation in the third degree is charged when the victim in the case is between the ages of 14 and 16.  A first offense by a defendant with no criminal history normally brings about a sentence range of 6 - 12 months in jail.

(1) A person is guilty of child molestation in the third degree when the person has, or knowingly causes another person under the age of eighteen to have, sexual contact with another who is at least fourteen years old but less than sixteen years old and not married to the perpetrator and the perpetrator is at least forty-eight months older than the victim.
(2) Child molestation in the third degree is a class C felony. 

This charge carries with it a 10 year sexual offender registration requirement.