Lafayette Sex Crimes Defense Lawyers

Are you or a loved one facing criminal charges related to computer-aided sex crimes or sex offenses or internet crime?

The Louisiana legal system can be overwhelming and confusing, especially in cases involving cutting-edge technology and sensitive issues.

That’s why you need an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process and protect your rights.

Bold and Aggressive Representation for Your Criminal Defense

At the Ikerd Law Firm, we are dedicated to providing bold and aggressive representation for clients facing sex offenses and/or computer aided sex crimes in Lafayette.

Far too often, false accusations are made during contested custody battles. We understand that being accused of a crime can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, and we are here to guide you through the legal process and defend your future.

The Ikerd Law Firm and Chad Ikerd have years of experience defending internet crimes and sex offense cases.

We understand the complexities of these types of cases and have the knowledge and skills to provide the aggressive representation you need.

Convictions for a sex offense can sometimes have more serious and harsh punishments than violent crimes.

Many, if not most, convictions require registration as a sex offender, possibly for life. For some, jail is preferable to having to register as a sex offender.

The stigma that comes with that title can cause you to lose friends, jobs, and even your home.

Do not put your future at risk by failing to hire an attorney experienced in investigating your case to prove your innocence or negotiating a fair resolution by emphasizing all available mitigation on your behalf.

Our team has a proven track record of success in defending clients against internet crimes and sex offense charges.

We thoroughly investigate the evidence against our clients and develop a comprehensive defense strategy that is tailored to the unique circumstances of their cases.

Whether it’s negotiating a favorable plea bargain or taking the case to trial, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

We handle a wide range of internet sex crimes and sex offense cases, including but not limited to allegations of:

• Rape
• Child molestation
• Indecent behavior with a juvenile
• Felony and Misdemeanor Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile
• Computer-aided sexual offenses, including online sexual exploitation of children
• Solicitation of a minor
• Traveling to meet a minor
• Revenge pornography
• Internet harassment
• Sextortion
• Virtual sexual assault

Understanding Sex Offenses in Lafayette, LA

Sex offenses are considered some of the most serious criminal charges in Louisiana. These types of offenses can result in severe penalties, including long prison sentences and lifetime registration as a sex offender.

It is important to understand the specific laws and potential consequences associated with sex offenses in order to properly defend yourself against these types of charges.

Types of Sex Offenses in Lafayette and throughout Louisiana:

In Louisiana, there are several different types of sex offenses, each with its own set of penalties and potential consequences.

Some of the most common types of sex offenses include:

• Sexual Assault or Sexual Battery
• Child Sexual Abuse, including Felony Carnal Knowledge with a Juvenile
• Rape or Abuse
• Internet, Computer, or Phone Sex Crimes

Understanding Internet Sex Crimes

Internet sex crimes are criminal offenses that are committed using the Internet or other forms of technology.

Acts that may be crimes can include:

• Pornography Involving Juveniles: This refers to the distribution, possession, or production of child pornography, as well as the sexual exploitation of children through online communication or grooming. La. R.S. 14:81.1.
• Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor: This can occur when an adult uses the internet to communicate with a minor with the intent to engage in sexual activity or a crime of violence. La. R.S. 14:81.3.
• Sexting: This can occur when someone, under the age of 17 sends a nude photo or video of themselves to another person. It is illegal to send a photo of yourself and for the person who received the photo to possess it. La. R.S. 14:81.1.1.
• Traveling to meet a minor: This refers to an adult using the internet to arrange a meeting with a minor for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity.
• Revenge pornography: This is the distribution of sexually explicit images or videos without the consent of the individual depicted, often with the intent to harm or humiliate the victim.
• Internet harassment: This refers to the use of the internet or other technology to harass, intimidate, or stalk another person.
• Sextortion: This occurs when an individual uses the internet to blackmail or extort another person into providing sexual favors or explicit images.

Aggressive Defense Strategies

Attorney Chad Ikerd is known for his aggressive and proactive approach to criminal defense and protecting the rights our Constitution bestows on every citizen to challenge the government’s case.

Chad will carefully analyze the evidence against you and develop a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.

This may include proactively seeking professional psychological help and assessments of you to present to the prosecution to mitigate some of the issues related to sentencing.

Whether it’s negotiating a favorable plea bargain or taking the case to trial, Chad is committed to achieving the best possible outcome for his clients.

Defending Against Sex Offense Charges in Lafayette

Possible defenses to sexual offense charges include:

• Lack of evidence: In many cases, sex offense charges are based on circumstantial evidence or the testimony of the alleged victim. An attorney may be able to challenge this evidence and cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.
• Consent: In some cases, the alleged victim may have consented to sexual contact or intercourse. A criminal defense attorney may be able to argue that the sexual contact was consensual and that the charges should be dropped.
• False accusations: Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for individuals to be falsely accused of sex offenses, especially during custody disputes. An experienced attorney can help investigate the case and gather evidence to disprove the accusations.
• Insufficient forensic evidence: Often DNA or other forensic sciences are involved in the prosecution of sex offenses. Chad Ikerd has litigated many DNA cases and has a full grasp of the science and how to attack it at trial where appropriate. Sometimes the outcome of a case may hinge on the ability to discredit and question the forensic evidence in a case.
• Mistaken identity: Sometimes, the victim may have mistaken the identity of the perpetrator, therefore it is important for the defense attorney to investigate and gather any evidence that might support the defendant’s alibi or lack of involvement in the crime.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: Illegal search and seizure is a defense against criminal charges that can be raised when the police obtain evidence in violation of the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution. This may occur when the police take samples of your DNA without a lawful warrant.
• Miranda rights violation: Chad Ikerd will always look closely at an interview a client has with police, without an attorney present. Sometimes the police forget to properly advise a suspect of their constitutional right to remain silent or the police ignore a request for an attorney. This can lead to some statements being suppressed and not used as evidence at trial.

Protect Your Future With the Help of a Sex Crime Defense Lawyer

We also understand the serious consequences that a conviction can have on your future, that’s why we work tirelessly to protect your rights and defend your freedom.

Don’t let an accusation of a sex offense or computer-aided sex crime put your reputation, rights, and freedom at risk.

Contact us today for a free initial consultation. Our team is standing by and ready to go to work for you and your family.