- Intervene early – If you are under investigation, we can communicate with law enforcement and prosecutors before charges are filed, limiting unnecessary exposure and protecting your rights from the start.
- Conduct a thorough investigation – Sex crime cases often hinge on credibility and evidence. We can review everything, from witness statements and forensic evidence to digital records and police procedures, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
- Build a focused defense strategy – Common defenses include false or mistaken allegations, lack of evidence, consent, constitutional violations during the investigation or arrest, and others. The route we take will depend on your case’s exact details.
- Provide consistent, direct representation – You will work with our attorneys from the first conversation through your case’s resolution, not paralegals or rotating staff.
Questions about what we can offer at this critical time? Don’t hesitate to call (971) 299-8747. We’re standing by to offer insights and advocacy that could be make-or-break in your case.
Penalties for Sex Crimes in Oregon & Washington
Sex crimes can result in some of the most serious penalties under Oregon and Washington law.
In Oregon, sex offenses range from misdemeanors to felonies:
- Class A felonies, such as rape in the first degree and unlawful sexual penetration in the first degree, carry up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $375,000. These are Measure 11 crimes, meaning mandatory minimum sentences between 70 and 300 months apply, with no possibility of parole.
- Sexual abuse in the first degree, a Class B felony, can result in up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
- Class C felony convictions carry up to 5 years in prison and fines totaling as much as $125,000.
In Washington, sex offenses are similarly serious:
- Rape in the first and second degrees are each Class A felonies. A conviction could mean life in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.
- Child molestation in the first degree is also a Class A felony carrying a maximum life prison sentence. Child molestation in the second degree is a Class B felony with a maximum of 10 years in prison.
Sex Offender Registry Requirements
In Oregon, a sex crime conviction typically means lifetime registration as a sex offender. But not all registrations are the same. Oregon uses a three-level classification system that determines how widely information about a registrant is shared with the public.
- Level 1 (low risk) – At this level, community notification is minimal. Only people who live with the registrant are typically informed. Level 1 is also the only classification where relief from registration is possible; after five years from the end of supervision, a registrant may apply for a hearing to seek removal from the registry.
- Level 2 (moderate risk) – At this level, notification is broader. Neighbors, nearby schools, churches, childcare facilities, and other locations where children are present may be informed of the registrant's status. Level 2 registrants cannot apply for relief from registration, though they may be able to apply for reclassification down to Level 1 under certain circumstances.
- Level 3 (high risk) – This is the most serious classification. In addition to the notifications made at Level 2, local and regional media may be notified, and the registrant's information is published on Oregon's public sex offender registry website, making it visible to anyone.
In Washington, adults convicted of a Class A felony sex offense must register for life; Class B felony convictions require 15 years of registration; and Class C felony convictions require 10 years. The state also classifies offenders into three levels. Those in the third and second levels are considered at higher risk of reoffending and must have their name published on the state’s public registry. Those in the first level are considered low risk and generally will not have their name on the public registry.
How Jessica's Law Affects Sex Crime Cases in Oregon
Jessica's Law is a set of sentencing provisions that significantly increases the penalties for certain sex crimes committed against children. In Oregon, it imposes mandatory minimum sentences for qualifying offenses, meaning a judge cannot impose a lighter sentence, regardless of the case’s circumstances or the defendant's background.
For individuals facing charges that fall under Jessica's Law, the consequences can be severe, and the legal landscape is complex. Understanding how these provisions apply to your specific situation is a critical part of building an effective defense.
Tell Your Story at Morrisson Law LLC
We understand that sex crime accusations carry an enormous amount of stigma. At our firm, there is no judgment. Our team is here to deliver the support and advocacy you need and may not be able to find elsewhere. When you turn to us, we’ll listen to your story, learn about your goals, and pursue a legal strategy aimed at protecting your rights, freedom, and future.
Get started with our Oregon City sex crime defense attorneys by requesting a free case analysis. Call (971) 299-8747 or contact us online today.
