Unwanted Sexual Touching: Is It a Crime in North Carolina?
Some sex crimes are more serious than others, and “unwanted touching” ranks relatively low on that scale. However, even a brief touch can still lead to criminal consequences in North Carolina, especially if the victim believes that the contact was sexual in nature. What kind of consequences might you face if someone accuses you of touching them inappropriately? This is something you should explore with a sex crime defense attorney in North Carolina.
Groping or Unwanted Sexual Touching is Sexual Battery in North Carolina
Like many other states, North Carolina has specific laws against unwanted sexual touching or “groping.” In the Tar Heel State, sexual touching can fall into the category of “sexual battery.” North Carolina defines sexual battery as any type of unwanted sexual contact with another person, as long as the purpose of this contact is sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse.
Sexual battery is a Class A1 misdemeanor in North Carolina. This is the most serious type of misdemeanor and may lead to a jail sentence of 150 days. (But see below—a conviction of sexual battery may also include a requirement that one register on the Sex Offender Registry, a burden that last years.) Of course, aggravating factors could increase your charge and penalties to a significant degree. For example, you could face years in prison if the alleged victim of unwanted sexual touching was a minor, and would more likely be charged with indecent liberties or other serious offenses.
You might also face heightened penalties if you allegedly committed the offense while in a position of trust. For example, you might face allegations of groping a student while working as a teacher. The same logic applies to situations involving patients and doctors.
How Can I Defend Myself Against Allegations of Unwanted Sexual Touching?
Defense strategies often revolve around consent or intent. Perhaps you did touch someone in a sexual way but the other party consented to it and is now saying something different. Or perhaps you might have lost your footing before falling into a woman’s breasts.
Whatever the case may be, these incidents should not lead to convictions. Speak with a lawyer to determine the most appropriate defense strategy for your specific situation.
Will I Have to Register as a Sex Offender?
Yes, you likely have to register as a sex offender if you are convicted of sexual battery. This may affect your life in many ways, and it also creates a certain social stigma. This consequence highlights the advantages of effective defense strategies.
Can a Sex Crime Defense Lawyer Help Me?
A sex crime defense attorney in North Carolina may be able to help if you face allegations of unwanted sexual touching. North Carolina has specific laws against unwanted sexual touching, and the court may force you to register as a sex offender after a conviction. As a result, it makes sense to defend yourself effectively. Contact The Pritchard Firm today for further guidance.
Sources:
ncleg.net/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/ByArticle/Chapter_14/Article_7B.pdf
ncleg.net/enactedlegislation/statutes/html/bysection/chapter_15a/gs_15a-1340.23.html