Sex Crime Attorneys in Northwest Indiana and Chicago, IL
Comprehensive Legal Defense for Sex Crime Charges
Being accused of a sex crime is terrifying, not only because society looks upon these crimes with such revulsion but also because regardless of the number of years a convicted sex offender spends in prison, this is one category of crime that always comes with a life sentence. That’s because of the draconian sex offender registration laws that restrict where you can live and what jobs you can do and make public your photo, personal information, address, and the nature of your charges. You might even be held indefinitely in civil commitment after you have served your sentence. With other crimes, you pay your debt to society and move on; but that is not the case with sexually-related offenses.
To compound the problem, not all criminal defense attorneys are willing to take on the defense of sex crimes. This means there are fewer defense lawyers with experience in fighting these charges.
Call Alvarez Law Offices today at (219) 300-5204 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our sex crimes attorney in Northwest Indiana and Chicago!
Alvarez Law Office has two former prosecutors on staff. Andy Kyres and Herb Shaps know the tactics and methods of the prosecution. We use that knowledge to provide an expert criminal defense. Don’t leave your freedom to chance. Trust a firm with decades of experience to fight for your rights. Whether you’ve been accused of a misdemeanor or a felony, call the Alvarez Law Office in Crown Point before you make any statement to police or prosecutor. You have the right to have a lawyer present and it will be to your advantage to exercise that right.
The Presumption of Innocence
At the Alvarez Law Office, regardless of allegations, every client enjoys the presumption of innocence, which is the accused's right. It is not unusual for false allegations of sex crimes to be made for various reasons, such as one parent accusing the other of sexual abuse in a vicious child custody battle. Sometimes a person will make false charges of sexual assault or rape to cover up consensual sex. We’ve even seen cases where a person accuses of a sex crime as a means of extorting money from the person being accused.
We understand the great potential for injustice and leave no evidence unexamined to establish our client’s innocence. We are incredibly attentive to possible motives for the accuser making a false allegation.
What are the Penalties for Sex Crime Convictions?
Sex crime convictions carry severe penalties that vary depending on the specific charges and circumstances of the case. In Indiana and Illinois, penalties can include:
- Prison Time: Convictions for sex crimes often result in lengthy prison sentences, ranging from several years to life in prison for the most serious offenses. For example, aggravated sexual assault and rape can lead to decades behind bars, especially if aggravating factors like the use of a weapon or the age of the victim are involved.
- Fines: In addition to imprisonment, individuals convicted of sex crimes may face significant fines, sometimes amounting to tens of thousands of dollars. These financial penalties are imposed in addition to any restitution that may be awarded to the victim.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: Perhaps one of the most lasting penalties is the requirement to register as a sex offender. Depending on the conviction, this registration can be for a set number of years or life, often limiting where someone can live or work. The individual's personal information is also available to the public through online databases.
- Civil Commitment: In some cases, even after serving a prison sentence, individuals convicted of sex crimes may be subjected to civil commitment, meaning they could be detained indefinitely if deemed a continued threat to society.
- Probation: Some first-time or youthful offenders might qualify for probation rather than jail time. However, this comes with stringent conditions, including mandatory treatment, regular check-ins, and travel or internet usage restrictions.
At Alvarez Law Office, we vigorously fight to reduce or eliminate these harsh penalties, seeking alternatives such as treatment programs or probation, especially for first-time offenders.
Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges
When facing sex crime allegations, it’s essential to know that several potential defenses can be used to challenge the charges. At Alvarez Law Office, we tailor our defense strategy to the unique facts of each case. Some common defenses include:
- False Accusations: In many cases, the accusation may be entirely fabricated. Whether the motive is revenge, financial gain, or to gain leverage in custody battles, false allegations are a common defense. We work tirelessly to uncover inconsistencies in the accuser's story and expose any ulterior motives behind the claim.
- Consent: For charges like sexual assault or rape, consent is often a critical defense. If both parties willingly engaged in the act, this defense can be used to challenge the prosecution’s narrative. We thoroughly investigate all communications and witness accounts to establish the presence of consent.
- Mistaken Identity: Sometimes, the wrong person is accused due to mistaken identity. We can use forensic evidence, witness testimonies, or alibis to show that our client was not involved in the alleged crime.
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is not enough credible evidence to meet this high standard, we will challenge the reliability and relevance of the evidence, seeking dismissal or a reduction of charges.
- Violation of Constitutional Rights: Law enforcement must follow strict legal procedures when investigating sex crime allegations. If your rights were violated during a search, interrogation, or arrest—such as not being read your Miranda rights or an illegal search and seizure—this can be used as a defense to suppress evidence or have the charges dropped.
No two cases are the same, so our legal team will build a defense strategy that aligns with the particular circumstances of your case. We will meticulously investigate every detail to protect your rights and fight for the best possible result for your future.
We've Recovered Billions for Clients
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$15 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$8.5 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$4 Million Steel Mill Explosion
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$3.55 Million Injured Tradesmen/Steelworker
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$3 Million Prescription Medical Defect
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$2.5 Million Amputation in Illinois
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I recommend the Alvarez Law Office; Friendly, helpful, and needful advice and also very knowledgeable regarding workman's comp claims. I appreciated their professional representation and skill.- Faith F.
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My experience with the Alvarez Law office was outstanding. They took my case and completed it in a timely manner. Ms. Theresa was outstanding with my case and made sure that I had everything I needed. If anyone needs a law firm that would fight for you like no other this is the Law firm for you. Thank you Anna Gallo- Anna G.
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This is a firm you want on your side. They did an amazing job on my car accident case. They really are 24-7. Brandon answered all my questions promptly even on the weekends. Steven got me an amazing settlement. He is the man! He even got my medicals lowered. This is a powerhouse lawyer you want on your side.- Moses V.
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Everyone that I have spoken with at Alvarez has been polite, positive, & professional. These interactions have inspired my confidence in this firm. It’s reassuring when you’re not well to have a team like this on your side. My attorney, Steven Alvarez a great communicator, very helpful, and kind. He has already been a huge help. I’m grateful I have Alvarez Law working on my behalf.- Lilly P.
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- Hailey S.
Brandon was great at getting back to me and answering all of my questions. It was nice having someone that would answer 24-7 and Attorney Alvarez got me a great resolution on my case.
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Got me more money back than I expected for my injuries! Thanks Alvarez law firm. You guys are awesome!!!- Jerry G.
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The whole entire staff IS GREAT from the front desk to the top. Very nice very friendly honest and reliable!- Joseph L.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me settle a workers compensation case. I am very pleased with the results thus far! Brandon along with the paralegal staff have been very professional and friendly. If you are in need of legal representation, consider Alvarez Law Office. Thank you so much!- Laura J.
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I was in an awful wreck in January and I contacted Mr. Alvarez. He has been such a great attorney but an even better friend! From checking up on me and making time for calls with both of our busy schedules. I can honestly say in an awful circumstance Steve Alvarez did his absolute best at all times. I Highly recommend this attorney to anyone!!! Thank you- Collin S.
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The office staff was always polite answering the phones. The paralegals are always there to answer my questions through email or by phone calls it may have taken time to get back to me but just had to be patient. The legal secretary called to go over and make sure I understood what and how it was going to be finalized. Attorney Steve Alvarez not settling and making sure he went the extra mile for me.- Brandy F.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me with a personal injury case and did a superb job. Everyone from the office staff to Walter Alvarez are very personable and friendly. My experience was great. Shout out to Steven Alvarez for a great job! Thank you so much!- Marci W.
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Very pleased with this law firm Brandon has kept me updated throughout my case. Brandon and Nicole are Rock Star's. I would definitely encourage anyone to use this law firm. If you want a Rock Star lawyer then Brandon Morford at Alvarez Law that's the guy you need.- James C.
Why did Alvarez Law Office file the lawsuit?
Why did Alvarez Law Office file the lawsuit? We filed a proposed class-action lawsuit for several reasons. First and foremost, it allows us to subpoena records and get much-needed answers about what happened. The Hospital’s communications so far have been vague at best, and we are told that the Hospital’s helpline folks are no more helpful. Second, we want to preserve everybody’s rights. Third, we wanted to immediately start the process of asking the court to “certify” the case as a class action, and we have already filed a motion and brief with the court seeking that certification.Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 219-300-5204 today!
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Workplace Accidents
A workplace accident is when a person is injured or killed on the job. When this happens, the employee may not be allowed to bring a personal injury lawsuit against their employer. If this type of accident takes place in the Chicago area or northwest Indiana, the employee or employee’s family will be required to file a claim under their localWorker’s CompensationAct. Once this action has been taken, the employer will be required to make various benefits available to the employee that has suffered a personal injury.
These benefits can include temporary total disability, medical treatment, and permanent partial disability, depending on the seriousness of the injury. Each state’s Worker’s Compensation law is different and can be tricky to navigate. You may choose to represent yourself as you work closely with your employer’s human resources when personal injury is minor. If you have sustained a significant injury, it may be best to acquire the services of a Workers’ Compensation attorney.
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Premises Liability
Accidents caused by defective or dangerous conditions on someone’s property are referred to as premises liability. These types of personal injuries can happen on personal or commercial properties. So if you are in an accident at your neighbor’s house, a gas station, grocery store, restaurant, or a retail store, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
Situations covered under premises liability include falling down a staircase with missing handrails, being bitten by a dog, slipping on spilled liquids in an aisle, tripping over uneven walkways, to name a few. When dealing with commercial businesses or homeowners’ insurance, they may try to sell you short when it comes to the compensation they offer to cover your injuries. A personal injury lawyer can step in and ensure you are taken care of and given ample compensation for your troubles.
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Wrongful Death
A case of wrongful death is usually due to someone’s carelessness. Cases such as these can be the direct result of truck or car crashes, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, the use of dangerous or defective products, airplane accidents, or construction accidents. The loss of a loved one due to wrongful death negatively affects the family and brings hardships such as financial strain, heartbreak, and a sense of loss.
A personal injury lawyer is essential in this type of case as they can help determine the extent of damages that will need to be recovered due to the wrongful death. They can also help alleviate the overall stress of the situation by handling the legal process while the family and loved ones grieve. This may be the toug
Contact Our Northwest Indiana and Chicago Sex Crimes Attorney Today
If you have been accused of committing a sex crime or if someone has threatened to accuse you, do not delay in hiring a lawyer with extensive experience defending these cases. Call the Alvarez Law office in Crown Point, Indiana, at the earliest indication that you have been placed in jeopardy. We will take every possible step, examine every piece of evidence, and question everything the police did in the course of your arrest or questioning with a view to getting all charges dropped. If this doesn’t happen, we will explore alternatives to jail time, such as treatment programs, that may be available to youthful or first time offenders. If the case goes to trial, we will present a well-prepared case using every piece of information at our disposal to discredit the prosecutor’s case, especially the motivations and character of the accuser.
We defend the accused against sex crime allegations throughout Northwestern Indiana, including Crown Point, Merrillville, Hammond, Gary, Dyer, St. John, Griffith, East Chicago, Munster, Schererville, Valparaiso, Knox, Portage, Newton, Culver, and the entire Chicagoland area.
Contact Alvarez Law Offices today to schedule a meeting with our sex crimes lawyer in Northwest Indiana and Chicago!
