Facing criminal charges can turn your life upside down in an instant, especially when those charges involve allegations of child molestation. The stigma alone can damage your reputation, relationships, and career prospects before you ever set foot in a courtroom. When the state accuses you of third-degree child molestation, understanding exactly what you’re up against is vital for making informed decisions about your Tacoma sex crimes legal defense strategy.
What Is Third-Degree Child Molestation in Washington?
Washington law defines third-degree child molestation as sexual contact between certain age groups. This offense occurs when someone has sexual contact with a minor who is 14 or 15 years old (but less than 16) when the accused person is at least 48 months (four years) older than the victim.
RCW 9A.44.089. Child molestation in the third degree.
(1) A person is guilty of child molestation in the third 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 fourteen years old but less than sixteen years old and the perpetrator is at least forty-eight months older than the victim.
What Are the Punishments for Third-Degree Molestation?
Third-degree child molestation is classified as a Class C felony in Washington. If convicted, you face up to five years in prison and/or fines reaching $10,000. Beyond these immediate penalties, a conviction carries long-term consequences that extend far beyond your sentence.
You will be required to register as a sex offender, potentially for life. This registration severely restricts where you can live, work, and even which public spaces you can visit. Background checks will reveal this conviction to potential employers, landlords, and other people in your life.
Should You Hire a Washington Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer?
Without legal representation, facing third-degree child molestation allegations can put your future at risk. The prosecution has full resources of the state behind them, while you must deal with unfamiliar legal procedures during a highly stressful time. With an attorney on your side, however, you can benefit from professional guidance through each step of the process.
A Washington defense attorney who handles sex crime cases will:
- Review all evidence to ensure it was properly collected and handled
- Look for inconsistencies in witness statements
- File motions to suppress questionable evidence
- Build a strategic defense plan based on the facts of your case
- Identify all available legal options and explain your next steps
- Present your case persuasively in court
- Work toward the most favorable outcome possible
Many defendants who represent themselves miss critical opportunities to protect their rights. What seems like a minor detail could actually form the basis for a robust defense or even get a case dismissed. An attorney serves as your guide through the justice system while working to protect your rights, freedom, and reputation.
Contact The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz for a Consultation
A conviction for third-degree child molestation carries potential jail time and sex offender registration requirements that may limit where you can live and work. At The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz, we provide strategic defense against these serious allegations while maintaining strict client confidentiality. If you are arrested for child molestation, contact us at (253) 272-8666 for a private consultation.