Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys In Tennessee
A sex crime accusation can unravel in days what took you years to build. It reaches your workplace, your community and the people who respect your name before a single charge is formally filed. At Spivey, King & Spivey, LLP, we understand what is at stake. Our firm has served Kingsport and across Tennessee for over 40 years, giving us local knowledge that can make a real difference for you.
Understanding Sex Offense Charges In Tennessee
Tennessee law defines sex offenses as criminal acts involving nonconsensual sexual contact, exploitation or unlawful conduct toward another person. These charges range from unwanted touching to internet-based crimes and carry serious penalties. State law recognizes several distinct types of sex offenses:
- Sexual battery: Nonconsensual sexual contact without penetration; a Class E felony with sentencing that ranges between one and six years
- Rape: Forced or coerced sexual penetration; a Class B felony with prison sentences that range from eight to 30 years
- Statutory rape: Sexual contact with a minor; felony charges from Class E to Class B based on age
- Aggravated sexual battery: Sexual contact involving a child under 13 or other aggravating factors; a Class B felony with prison time that can reach 30 years
- Internet sex crimes: Online solicitation of minors or child pornography; felony charges carrying decades in prison
We approach every sex crime case without judgment and with one focus: protecting your future. Lead attorney Matthew Spivey earned the Massey McGee Trial Advocacy Award from the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. That recognition reflects our commitment to skilled, aggressive and discreet defense.
How Tennessee Sex Offender Registration Can Affect Your Life
Many sex offense convictions in Tennessee require mandatory placement on the state Sex Offender Registry. Covered offenses include rape, sexual battery and internet sex crimes. Registration requires you to regularly report your address, employment and personal information to local law enforcement.
The registry can restrict where you live and work and cause lasting damage to your reputation. For executives, professionals and families of college students, these consequences can be swift and severe. Our criminal defense attorneys fight to keep you off the registry. In very limited circumstances allowed by law, we can pursue post-conviction relief from registration requirements.
A Sex Crime Charge Does Not Have To Define Your Future
Your future is too important to leave to chance. At Spivey, King & Spivey, LLP, we take cases to trial because you deserve more than a quick resolution. Call our office at 423-661-7934 or reach out to us online to schedule a confidential consultation today.