Child Sex Offence Lawyers Sydney

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Author: Danielle de Souza Tynan

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When faced with criminal charges relating to child sex offences in Sydney, NSW, it can be an extremely distressing and overwhelming experience. As such, it is crucial that you understand the gravity of these allegations and seek appropriate legal representation.

LY Lawyers is a trusted and highly experienced criminal defence firm that specialises in defending individuals who have been accused of child sex offences.

With our unparalleled expertise and compassionate approach, we are dedicated to providing high-quality legal support, so that you can confidently navigate through this challenging legal process.

On this page we will explore the law regarding child sex offences in Sydney, NSW Australia, including the following subsections:

What Is Meant by Child Sex Offences?
What Does the Prosecution Set Out to Prove in Child Sexual Abuse Cases?
What Are the Different Types of Child Sexual Abuse Offences?
What Are the Various Penalties Associated with Child Sexual Abuse Cases?
What Are Your Defences When Charged with Child Sexual Abuse in Australia?
How Can LY Lawyers Help with Your Case?
Why Choose LY Lawyers as Your Child Sex Offence Lawyers in Sydney?
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Meant by Child Sex Offences?

Child sex offences encompass a wide range of criminal acts involving sexual abuse, including common assault on a child, exploitation, or misconduct committed against children in Australia, particularly in New South Wales (NSW).

In Australia, the legal age of consent varies by jurisdiction, but it generally ranges from 16 to 18 years old.

Child sex offences are taken extremely seriously by the law due to the vulnerability of children and the long-lasting impact such abuse can have on their psychological, emotional, and physical well-being throughout their lives.

Child sex offenders who have been tried and found guilty of grooming offences or the sexual abuse of a child, will face severe punishment. As such, it is important that you seek the best legal representation – particularly if you maintain your innocence and believe that you can build a reasonable defence.

What Does the Prosecution Set Out to Prove in Child Sexual Abuse Cases?

The prosecution bears the burden of proving the accused’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In child sexual abuse cases in Sydney, NSW, the prosecution aims to establish the following elements:

The accused has engaged in sexual activity with a child.
The child involved was below the legal age of consent.
The sexual activity was non-consensual or involved coercion, manipulation, or abuse of authority.
The accused had knowledge or reasonable belief regarding the child’s age and willingly committed the act regardless.

What Are the Different Types of Child Sexual Abuse Offences?

Child sexual abuse is an extremely concerning crime that inherently carries severe legal consequences in Sydney, New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Understanding the specific charges and the legal framework surrounding child sex offences is crucial for anyone who is facing such allegations.

Below we will detail the main categories of child sex offences and provide information on your options when charged with such crimes.

Please note that the following information serves as a general guide and should not substitute legal advice from a qualified child sex offences lawyer.

1 – Sexual Intercourse with A Child

One of the most serious child sex offences in Australia is engaging in sexual intercourse with a child, as defined under sections 66 and 73 of the Crimes Act 1900.

This offence involves engaging in sexual intercourse with a child who is under the age of consent, which is generally 16 years old in NSW. It is important to note that consent is not a valid defence in cases involving sexual intercourse with a child.

Your Options:

If you have been charged with having sexual intercourse with a child, it is essential that you seek legal advice immediately.

Your options may include pleading guilty or pleading not guilty, depending on the circumstances of your case.

Again, consulting with criminal lawyers in Sydney will help you better understand the potential outcomes and, indeed develop an effective defence strategy.

Pleading Not Guilty:

If you believe that you are innocent or have a valid defence, you may wish to plead not guilty. In this case, it is crucial that you consult with a child sex offence lawyer who can thoroughly analyse the evidence provided, challenge the prosecution’s case, and protect your rights throughout the legal proceedings.

Pleading Guilty:

If on the other hand, you choose to plead guilty, it is vital that you seek legal representation to assist you in navigating the legal process as effectively as possible.

A skilled child sexual offence lawyer can help mitigate the potential penalties associated with such charges and present your case in the most favourable light.

Sentencing for sexual intercourse with a child can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances, and your lawyer will work to achieve the best possible outcome on your behalf.

What Is the Law Regarding Sexual Intercourse with A Child?

The law regarding sexual intercourse with a child is outlined in sections 66 and 73 of the Crimes Act 1900.

These provisions aim to protect children from sexual exploitation and carry severe penalties upon conviction.

Again, understanding the specific elements of the accused offence and the legal requirements involved is essential when building a strong defence.

What Does the Prosecution Set Out to Prove?

In the case of sexual intercourse with a child, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:

The accused individual did indeed engage in sexual intercourse with a child who was under the age of consent.
They must also establish the identity of the accused and present evidence supporting their case.
A skilled child sex offences lawyer will critically examine the prosecution’s evidence and challenge its credibility if necessary.

2 – Aggravated Sexual Intercourse with A Child:

Aggravated sexual intercourse with a child is a far more serious offence, thus carrying harsher penalties.

Aggravating circumstances include:

Intentional or reckless infliction of actual bodily harm upon the child or someone else present.
Threats of harm.
Multiple people present during the offence.
The child is under your authority.
The child has a serious cognitive or physical impairment.
Committing a break and entering.
Depriving the child of their liberty.
Taking advantage of a child under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Your Options:

When you are facing charges of aggravated sexual intercourse with a child, your options include pleading not guilty or pleading guilty, depending on the specifics of your case.

Seeking the appropriate legal advice from an experienced child sex offences lawyer is crucial to understanding your rights and developing an effective defence strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

Pleading Not Guilty:

If you maintain your innocence or have a valid defence, pleading not guilty is a viable option. An experienced lawyer will scrutinise the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Pleading Guilty:

If you choose to plead guilty, it is crucial to have skilled child sexual abuse lawyers by your side. They will work to mitigate the potential penalties and present your case in the most favourable light whilst taking into account the aggravating factors involved.

What Is the Law Regarding Aggravated Sexual Intercourse with A Child?

Aggravated sexual intercourse with a child involves engaging in any form of sexual intercourse with a child under the age of consent, while one or more of the aggravating circumstances mentioned above are present.

This offence is governed by sections 66A and 73A of the Crimes Act 1900.

What Does the Prosecution Set Out to Prove?

In a case of aggravated sexual intercourse with a child, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:

The accused person engaged in sexual intercourse with a child who was under the age of consent and that one or more aggravating circumstances were present.
The prosecution must establish the identity of the accused and present evidence supporting their case.
It is the role of skilled child sexual abuse lawyers to critically examine and challenge the evidence if necessary.

3 – Sexual Intercourse with A Child in Special Care (Aged 16-18):

Sexual intercourse with a child in special care aged 16 to 18, is a distinct offence under section 73A of the Crimes Act 1900.

This offence relates to engaging in any form of sexual intercourse with a child who is in your special care, such as a student, a patient, or someone you have a duty of care towards (i.e., as a babysitter or legal guardian).

Your Options:

If you have been charged with having sexual intercourse with a child in special care (aged 16-18), your options include pleading not guilty or pleading guilty, depending on the specifics of your case.

Seeking legal advice from a child sex offences lawyer is essential to understanding your rights and developing an effective defence strategy.

Pleading Not Guilty:

If you maintain your innocence or have a valid defence, pleading not guilty is an option that you can pursue.

In this case, qualified child sexual abuse lawyers will assess the evidence in question, challenge the prosecution’s case, and protect your rights to the best of their ability throughout the legal proceedings.

Pleading Guilty:

If you choose to plead guilty, having a knowledgeable child sex offences lawyer in your corner is crucial to securing the best possible outcome. They will work to mitigate the potential penalties and present your case in the most favourable light, considering the circumstances surrounding the offence.

What Is the Law Regarding Sexual Intercourse with A Child in Special Care (Aged 16-18)?

The law regarding sexual intercourse with a child in special care (aged 16-18) is outlined in section 73A of the Crimes Act 1900.

This provision aims to protect vulnerable individuals under special care from sexual exploitation.

Again, understanding the specific elements of the offence in question and the associated legal requirements is crucial in building a strong defence on your behalf.

What Does the Prosecution Set Out to Prove?

To secure a conviction for sexual intercourse with a child in special care (aged 16-18), the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:

The accused person engaged in sexual intercourse with a child who was in their special care.
The prosecution will need to establish the identity of the accused and present evidence supporting their case.
It is the role of a skilled child sex offences lawyer to critically examine and challenge the evidence if necessary.

4 – Procuring or Grooming a Child (Aged Under 16) For Unlawful Sexual Activity

Procuring or grooming a child under the age of 16 for unlawful sexual activity is a severe and specific offence under section 66EB of the Crimes Act 1900.

This offence relates to procuring and/or grooming a child under the age of legal consent with the intention of engaging in sexual intercourse with them. Below is a detailed definition of the offences, extracted from section 66EB of the Crimes Act 1900:

Procuring children: an adult person who intentionally procures a child for unlawful sexual activity with that or any other person is guilty of an offence.
Meeting child following grooming: an adult person—

(a) who intentionally meets a child, or travels with the intention of meeting a child, whom the adult person has groomed for sexual purposes, and
(b) who does so with the intention of procuring the child for unlawful sexual activity with that adult person or any other person, is guilty of an offence.

Your Options:

If charged with procuring or grooming offences relating to meeting a child under the age of 16 for unlawful sexual activity, your options include pleading not guilty or pleading guilty, depending on the specifics of your case.

Seeking legal guidance from reputable child sexual abuse lawyers is crucial in understanding your rights and subsequently developing an effective strategy in your defence.

Pleading Not Guilty:

If you believe you are innocent or have a valid defence, pleading not guilty is an option that you can pursue.

In this case, your experienced child sex offences lawyer will assess the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and protect your rights to the best of their ability throughout the legal proceedings.

Pleading Guilty:

If you choose to plead guilty, it is important that you have skilled child sex offence lawyers by your side. They will work tirelessly to mitigate the potential penalties and present your case in the most favourable light, considering the circumstances of your situation.

What Are the Various Penalties Associated with Child Sexual Abuse Cases?

Sexual abuse offences against children carry serious penalties, depending on the circumstances and indeed the severity of the offence committed.

These penalties vary from mandatory inclusion on the child sex offenders register, as well as any of the following potential punishments:

Community Service Orders:

Community Service Orders (CSOs) involve performing unpaid work within the community as a punishment for the offence committed.
Offenders are required to undertake a specified number of hours of community service, usually related to their skills and abilities.
The purpose of CSOs is to provide a form of rehabilitation, encourage a sense of responsibility, and contribute positively to the community.

Fines:

Fines are monetary penalties imposed on offenders as a punishment for the offence committed.
The amount of the fine payable varies depending on the severity of the offence and the individual’s financial circumstances.
Failure to pay the fine may result in additional penalties, such as enforcement actions or imprisonment.

Home Detention:

Home Detention involves serving a custodial sentence within the confines of one’s own home under strict supervision.
Offenders are required to comply with specific conditions, such as electronic tag monitoring and curfew restrictions.
Home Detention aims to provide an alternative to full-time imprisonment while still ensuring the safety of the community.

Intensive Correction Orders:

Intensive Correction Orders (ICOs) combine custodial elements with strict community-based supervision and rehabilitation programs.
Offenders are subject to various conditions, including regular reporting, drug and alcohol testing, and participation in treatment programs.
ICOs are often imposed for serious offences and are intended to address the underlying causes of criminal behaviour.

Prison Sentences:

Prison sentences involve the incarceration of child sex offenders in correctional facilities for a specified period.
The length of the prison sentence depends on the severity of the offence, previous criminal history, and other aggravating or mitigating factors.
During the imprisonment, individuals are separated from society and are subject to the rules and regulations of the correctional system.

Section 12 (Good Suspended Sentence):

Section 12 (Good Suspended Sentence) refers to a suspended sentence, which means that the court imposes a custodial sentence but suspends its execution.
The offender is released on the condition that they do not commit further offences during a specified period.
If the individual complies with the conditions, the sentence may not be served, but if they breach the conditions, the original sentence can be activated.

Section 9 (Good Behaviour Bond):

Section 9 (Good Behaviour Bond) refers to a court order requiring the offender to be of good behaviour and comply with certain conditions.
The conditions may include regular reporting to a probation officer, participation in rehabilitation programs, and refraining from committing further offences.
Breaching the bond may result in the activation of the original sentence or the imposition of additional penalties.

Section 10 Dismissal:

Section 10 Dismissal allows the court to dismiss the charges without imposing any penalties or convictions on the offender.
The court may exercise this option when there are mitigating circumstances or when it is considered appropriate in the interests of justice.
A Section 10 dismissal is a favourable outcome as it avoids the imposition of penalties and the creation of a criminal record.

Please note that the specific penalties and their application can vary substantially depending on the circumstances of your case, the severity of the offence, and the discretion of the judge or magistrate involved in the sentencing process. As such, consulting with a highly qualified criminal defence lawyer, such as LY Lawyers, can provide you with the best understanding of the potential penalties in your specific situation.

What Are Your Defences When Charged with Child Sexual Abuse in Australia?

When you are faced with charges of child sexual abuse in Sydney, NSW, Australia, it is absolutely crucial for you to understand that the law takes these offences extremely seriously, in order to protect the well-being and safety of our nation’s children.

However, you have every right to build a solid defence on your behalf – and there are certain defences available under Australian law that an accused can consider. Below are some of the most commonly used defences in child sexual abuse cases:

Lack of Intent: One possible defence is to argue that the accused lacked the necessary intent to commit such an offence. In some cases, the prosecution must prove that the accused knowingly and intentionally engaged in the alleged sexual activity. If it can be shown that the touching or activity was accidental, unintentional, or lacking the required intent, it may be a valid defence.
Honest and Reasonable Mistake: Another potential defence you can consider is based on an honest and reasonable mistake regarding the age of the child involved. If the accused genuinely believed that the child was of legal age to consent to sexual activity at the time of the offence and had reasonable grounds for that belief, this defence may be applicable. However, it is important to note that this defence has incredibly strict requirements and may not be available in all situations.
False Allegations: In some cases, false allegations of child sexual abuse can occur due to misunderstandings, revenge, coercion, or a plethora of other reasons. In such cases, the defence strategy may involve challenging the credibility and reliability of the accuser’s statements whilst presenting evidence or witnesses that can effectively contradict their claims beyond a reasonable doubt.
Lack of Corroborating Evidence: In other cases, the defence may challenge the sufficiency or indeed the credibility of the evidence presented by the prosecution. They may argue that there is insufficient corroborating evidence to support the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt, such as inconsistencies in witness statements or a lack of physical evidence.
Identity: The defence may also assert that the accused was misidentified as the perpetrator. This defence could be relevant if there are issues with identification, unreliable witness testimony, or if the accused can provide an alibi or evidence demonstrating their absence from the location at the time of the alleged offence.

Please note that the availability and success of the aforementioned defences will largely depend on the unique facts and evidence in each individual case.

How Can LY Lawyers Help with Your Case?

LY Lawyers can provide comprehensive legal support and guidance for individuals facing child sex offence charges. These services include:

Expert Legal Representation in Court Proceedings: LY Lawyers will provide you with skilled and experienced lawyers who specialise in representing individuals charged with child sexual abuse offenses during court proceedings. Our lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the legal system and will advocate on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected while presenting an air-tight defence.
Developing Effective Defence Strategies: We will work closely with you to develop effective defence strategies tailored to the specific circumstances of the child sexual abuse case. Our people will analyse the evidence presented in court, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and explore all available legal options in order to build a robust defence aimed at achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Thorough Case Investigation and Evidence Analysis: LY Lawyers conduct comprehensive case investigations to gather all relevant information and evidence related to the child sexual abuse charges. We will scrutinise the evidence, interview witnesses, consult with experts if necessary, and analyse every aspect of the case to uncover potential inconsistencies or weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument.
Legal Aid Applications: Our team can also assist you in applying for legal aid, which is government-provided assistance under the Legal Aid Commission of NSW for individuals who cannot afford to fund their own legal representation. We can guide you through the process, ensuring that all of the necessary documents are properly prepared and submitted to increase the likelihood of obtaining legal aid for your child sexual abuse case.
Assistance with Bail Applications: In cases where the accused has been arrested or detained, LY Lawyers provides support and assistance in bail applications. Our criminal defence lawyers can help you prepare the necessary documentation, present persuasive arguments to the court, and advocate on your behalf to be released on bail while addressing any concerns regarding being a flight risk or potential danger to the community.
Professional Advice and Guidance Throughout the Legal Process: LY Lawyers offers professional advice and guidance for our clients at every stage of the legal process for child sexual abuse cases. We will thoroughly explain the charges, potential consequences, and legal options available to you, ensuring you have a full and clear understanding of the situation.
Dedicated Support and Commitment to Protecting the Rights and Interests of the Accused: We are dedicated to providing unwavering support for our clients who have been charged with child sexual abuse offences. We are wholly committed to protecting the rights and interests of the accused, treating them with respect and dignity throughout the legal process. We will work tirelessly to ensure a fair and just outcome.

Why Choose LY Lawyers as Your Child Sex Offence Lawyers in Sydney?

So, why choose LY Lawyers as your dedicated child sex offence lawyers in Sydney, NSW Australia? Here are some qualities that set us apart:

Extensive experience in handling complex child sex offence cases.
Knowledgeable and skilled criminal defence lawyers.
Dedicated and compassionate approach to client representation.
Proven track record of successful outcomes (see testimonials) for clients in NSW, Victoria, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland. We regularly travel to different states, gaining valuable experience in representing clients in various jurisdictions.
We have achieved tremendous success in District and Supreme Court Trials, securing “Not Guilty” verdicts for our clients through our diligent advocacy.
Access to a network of expert professionals, including investigators and forensic specialists.
Strong commitment to protecting clients’ rights and interests.
Tailored defence strategies based on individual circumstances.
Comprehensive understanding of relevant laws and legal precedents in NSW and beyond.
Available 24/7 for support and guidance throughout the legal process.

Contact Us Today

If you are faced with child sex offence charges or require legal advice, know that you are not alone. The team at LY Lawyers is here to provide you with high-quality defence and unwavering support so that you can effectively navigate the complexities of the legal system in Australia.

Remember, facing child sex offence charges is incredibly overwhelming, but having the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the ultimate outcome of your case.

Trust LY Lawyers to provide you with the professional, empathetic, and knowledgeable support you need during this difficult time.

Below, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding child sexual abuse cases and child sex offence lawyers in Sydney, NSW. If you are unable to find the specific information you need or require further explanation, please do not hesitate to contact us today.

What is child sexual abuse?

Child sexual abuse refers to any sexual activity or behaviour involving a child, where the child is exploited or used for the sexual gratification of another person. It includes a wide range of actions such as common assault on a child, sexual assault, molestation, indecent exposure, child pornography, grooming offences, and other forms of sexual exploitation.

How can LY Lawyers assist with child sexual abuse offences?

LY Lawyers has a world-class team of experienced and dedicated child sexual abuse lawyers who specialise in handling cases related to various child sexual abuse offences.

Our people are well-versed in the laws and regulations governing these cases and can provide expert legal advice, representation, and support throughout the legal process.

What should I do if I suspect or believe my child has been a victim of sexual abuse?

If you suspect or believe that your child has been a victim of sexual abuse, it is paramount that you take immediate action. Here are some steps you can take:

Ensure your child’s safety: Remove your child from any immediate danger and provide a safe and supportive environment.
Seek medical attention: Take your child to a healthcare professional who specialises in child abuse cases for a thorough examination and assessment.
Report to the authorities: Contact your local law enforcement agency or child protection services to report the abuse. They will initiate an investigation and take the appropriate action.
Consult with a child sexual abuse lawyer: Finally, seek legal advice and guidance on how to protect your child’s rights and pursue the course of justice.

Can LY Lawyers assist in cases involving historical child sexual abuse?

Yes, LY Lawyers can assist in cases involving historical child sexual abuse. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and have the expertise to navigate through complex legal issues, even when the abuse occurred in the past.

What should I expect during the legal process for a child sexual abuse case?

The legal process for a child sexual abuse case can vary depending on the specific circumstances and jurisdiction. However, it generally involves the following stages:

Investigation: Law enforcement agencies will conduct an investigation to gather evidence and interview all relevant parties.
Charges: If there is sufficient evidence, the accused may be charged with child sexual abuse offences.
Court proceedings: The case will proceed to court, where both sides will present their arguments and evidence. LY Lawyers will represent you throughout the process, ensuring your rights are protected and that you are treated with dignity.
Verdict and sentencing: The court will deliver a verdict based on the evidence presented. If the accused is found guilty, the court will determine an appropriate sentence.

How long does the legal process for a child sexual abuse case typically take?

The duration of a child sexual abuse case can vary significantly depending on a wide variety of factors, including:

The complexity of the case.
The availability of evidence.
Court schedules.
The willingness of both parties to reach a settlement.

Remember, these cases require thorough investigation and careful legal preparation, which can take time. LY Lawyers will work diligently alongside you to ensure your case progresses as efficiently as possible.

What should I do if I am charged with a child sexual abuse offence?

If you find yourself facing charges related to a child sexual abuse offence, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights and obtain reliable legal representation. Here’s a guide on what you should do:

Stay calm and seek legal advice: Being accused of sexually abusing a child can be a horrifying experience – especially if you have been wrongfully accused. As such, you must maintain your composure and resist the urge to act hastily. It’s natural to feel frightened and overwhelmed, but staying calm will help you make informed decisions. Immediately cut off all contact with the accuser and reach out to LY Lawyers for experienced criminal defence lawyers who specialise in child sexual abuse cases. We will provide you with tailored advice and guide you through the complex and overwhelming legal process. You must avoid attempting to contact the accuser to resolve the issue outside of court, as anything you say can (and likely will) be used against you. You should only communicate with your legal representative and follow their advice to the letter.
Preserve evidence: If you have any evidence that supports your innocence or contradicts the allegations made against you, you must gather and preserve it to the best of your ability. This may include text messages, emails, or eye-witness statements. Such evidence can be absolutely crucial in building a strong defence strategy and proving your innocence.
Refrain from making statements: You must avoid making any statements to the police or anyone else without your lawyer present. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. While it may seem counterproductive to remain silent, or feel as though you are demonstrating signs of guilt by not cooperating, it is paramount that you exercise your right to remain silent and wait for your chosen legal representation to arrive and advise you accordingly. Your lawyer will guide you on how to navigate the legal proceedings effectively without accidentally compromising your defence.
Cooperate with your lawyer: Cooperating fully and wholeheartedly with your lawyer is an essentiality. You must work closely with them and provide all the necessary information to help them build a solid defence strategy on your behalf. Fortunately, the team at LY Lawyers have a collective experience of over 50-years as criminal defence lawyers in Sydney, NSW, and you can trust in our ability to provide you with superior representation during this difficult time. Your dedicated lawyer will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected while advocating for your best interests.

How can I contact LY Lawyers for assistance with a child sexual abuse case?

You can contact LY Lawyers at any time by calling our 24/7 hotline at: 1300 595 299.

We are available around the clock to provide you with immediate assistance and schedule a free consultation to discuss your case in detail.

Alternatively, you can visit our contact page, click on the ‘Book your free consultation’ button, fill out the contact form, and request a call back from one of our dedicated child sex offence lawyers.

Our offices are conveniently located in Sydney CBD (World Tower), Parramatta (55 Phillip Street), Liverpool (Macquarie Street), Wollongong (Crown Street), and Gosford (Erina Street, Opposite Imperial Centre).

What other charges can LY Lawyers assist me with?

In addition to child sex offences, our sexual assault lawyers can also provide legal assistance for various related criminal offences, including:

Aggravated Indecent Assault:

Aggravated Indecent Assault refers to the intentional and unwanted touching of another person, without their consent, for sexual gratification or to humiliate, degrade, or arouse the offender.
The term “aggravated” indicates that specific circumstances apply, such as the use of violence, the presence of a weapon, or the victim’s vulnerability.
Aggravated Indecent Assault is a serious offence that carries significant penalties if convicted.

Aggravated Sexual Act:

Aggravated Sexual Act refers to engaging in a sexual act with another person without their consent.
The term “aggravated” indicates the presence of certain aggravating factors, such as the use of violence, the presence of a weapon, or the victim’s vulnerability.
Aggravated Sexual Act is a serious offence that can result in severe penalties upon conviction.

Aggravated Sexual Assault in Company:

Aggravated Sexual Assault in Company occurs when two or more people engage in sexual acts with another person without their consent.
The term “aggravated” implies the presence of additional elements, such as the use of violence, the presence of a weapon, or the victim’s vulnerability.
This offence is considered particularly serious due to the involvement of multiple offenders and the potential for increased harm to the victim.

Aggravated Sexual Assault:

Aggravated Sexual Assault refers to engaging in sexual intercourse or an act of indecency with another person without their consent.
The term “aggravated” indicates the presence of specific aggravating factors, such as the use of violence, the presence of a weapon, or the victim’s vulnerability.
Aggravated Sexual Assault is a grave offence that carries severe penalties upon conviction.

Aggravated Sexual Touching:

Aggravated Sexual Touching involves intentionally touching another person’s intimate parts without their consent for sexual gratification or to humiliate, degrade, or arouse the offender.
The term “aggravated” suggests the presence of certain aggravating circumstances, such as the use of violence, the presence of a weapon, or the victim’s vulnerability.
Aggravated Sexual Touching is a serious offence that can result in significant penalties if proven in court.

Child Abuse Material:

Child Abuse Material, also known as child pornography, refers to any material, including images, videos, or texts, that depicts or represents a person under the age of 18 engaging in sexual activities or poses.
Possessing, producing, distributing, or accessing child abuse material is a criminal offence in NSW and is taken extremely seriously to protect children from exploitation and harm.

Indecent Assault:

Indecent Assault involves the intentional and unwanted touching of another person, without their consent, for sexual gratification or to humiliate, degrade, or arouse the offender.
Unlike aggravated offences, Indecent Assault does not involve specific aggravating circumstances, such as violence, weapons, or vulnerability.
Indecent Assault is a serious offence that carries significant penalties if convicted.

Sexual Act:

Sexual Act refers to any activity that involves another person and has a sexual nature or intent.
It includes various sexual acts, such as sexual intercourse, oral sex, anal sex, or any other act of a sexual nature.
The specific definition and legal implications of Sexual Act may vary depending on the context and relevant legislation.

Sexual Touching:

Sexual Touching encompasses any intentional and unwanted touching of another person’s intimate parts without their consent for sexual gratification or to humiliate, degrade, or arouse the offender.
It includes touching of breasts, genitals, buttocks, or any other intimate areas without the person’s consent.
Sexual Touching is a serious offence that can lead to significant penalties if proven in court.

How long does the legal process for a child sexual abuse case typically take?

The duration of a child sexual abuse case can vary significantly depending on a wide variety of factors, including:

The complexity of the case.
The availability of evidence.
Court schedules.
The willingness of both parties to reach a settlement.