Second-Degree Child Molestation in Washington State

When you are facing criminal charges for second-degree child molestation, the potential consequences extend far beyond courtroom proceedings. A conviction for this crime can permanently alter your future. Washington takes these allegations extremely seriously, so if someone accuses you of this heinous crime, it is essential to contact our Tacoma sex crimes attorneys who can protect your rights and build an effective defense strategy.

How Is Second-Degree Child Molestation Defined?

Washington law defines second-degree child molestation as sexual contact with a child who is at least 12 years old but less than 14 years old when the perpetrator is at least 36 months (3 years) older than the victim. A conviction for this crime hinges on several elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt: the age of the alleged victim, the age difference between the involved parties, and that sexual contact actually occurred.

RCW 9A.44.086. Child molestation in the second degree.

(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 the perpetrator is at least thirty-six months older than the victim.

What Are the Criminal Penalties for Second-Degree Child Molestation?

Second-degree child molestation is classified as a Class B felony in Washington. If you are convicted, you face up to 10 years in prison and/or fines reaching $20,000. Additionally, a conviction carries significant collateral consequences. You may need to register as a sex offender for life, and you could face difficulties with housing, employment, and personal relationships. 

What Should You Do If You Are Arrested on These Charges?

If you are arrested on suspicion of child molestation, remain calm and do not say anything. The actions you take in the immediate aftermath can have a major influence on your case’s future outcome. Instead, take these steps:

• Exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you, regardless of your innocence.
• Request an attorney immediately and do not speak to investigators without legal representation present.
• Avoid contacting the alleged victim or their family members.
• Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. These communications are not confidential; anyone you speak to could be called to testify against you.
• Follow all court orders to the letter, including stay-away orders and pre-trial release conditions. Your attorney can help explain the terms of these orders in detail. 
• Preserve any evidence that might support your defense, such as records of your whereabouts during the alleged incident.

Remember, an arrest is not a conviction. You have the right to defend yourself. Your attorney will work to achieve the best outcome on your behalf, from identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to negotiating plea deals. 

Don’t Wait—Contact The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz Today

Second-degree child molestation charges require an immediate and strategic defense. The consequences of conviction can affect every aspect of your life for decades to come. At The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz, we examine every detail of the allegations against you, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and protecting your constitutional rights throughout the process. Contact us at (253) 272-8666 today and trust our criminal defense attorney to fight for you.