Expert Defense Lawyer for Sexual Interference Cases in Toronto
Facing a sexual interference charge? Secure your strongest defense with an astute, compelling criminal defense attorney.
What is Sexual Interference
In Canada, is there a specific law for when someone inappropriately touches a person under 16? Section 151 of the Criminal Code lays it out: if you touch someone young with a sexual intent, that’s prohibited.
It is not just about the touch – it is about what you meant by it. Imagine you are at a family gathering and your cousin, who’s just 15, tells you about someone making her feel uncomfortable. That’s what this law is here to stop.
Sexual Interference vs. Sexual Assault
Navigating the complexities of sexual offenses can be tricky, especially when it comes to understanding the nuances between sexual interference and sexual assault. Imagine sexual interference as a crime specifically targeting those under 16.
It is like someone coloring outside the lines, but here, the lines are drawn around age. In contrast, sexual assault is a broader canvas, encompassing unwanted sexual advances, whether it’s a touch, a kiss, or more, across all ages.
Picture sexual assault as an invasion of personal space without regard for the purpose. It’s like someone entering your room without permission.
On the flip side, sexual interference is more about the wrongdoer’s motives – think of it as them taking something from your room for their gain, specifically for their sexual satisfaction or to demean the victim sexually.
Sexual Interference vs. Invitation to Sexual Touching
Inviting sexual touching is about encouraging or advising someone under 16 to touch themselves or others, including the person making the invitation, for sexual reasons. Sexual interference, however, is when the accused person touches the young person for sexual purposes.
These laws are strict for a reason – they are there to shield kids from sexual abuse. Are you caught up in this tricky situation? It’s crucial to team up with the best sexual assault lawyers in Toronto.
Assault Cases Solved
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Punishment for Sexual Interference in Toronto
Being charged with sexual interference is like having a ticking bomb strapped to your future. The law sees this crime as a hybrid offense. This means the punishment varies.
You are found guilty of sexual interference, and you get slapped with a SOIRA order, which means your name gets tattooed onto both the Provincial and National Sex Offenders Registry.
If it is a summary offense, think of it as a short but bitter 90-day time with a ceiling of 2 years. But if it is indictable, you are looking behind bars anywhere from a year to 14 years.
But it’s not just about jail time.
- Your social life takes a nosedive.
- Your career hits a brick wall.
- Your passport gathers dust.
What Are The Available Defences To A Charge Of Sexual Interference
In facing a sexual interference charge, here are the key defenses to consider:
- It’s a case of mistaken identity; the wrong person is accused.
- The alleged incident did not happen.
- Legally speaking, the incident does not constitute sexual interference.
- In certain rare cases where consent is legally relevant, the complainant or the accused genuinely believed they had consent.
- The accused’s mental state at the time might lead to a verdict of not criminally responsible due to a mental disorder.
What Is The Sex Offender Registry
Are you facing a sexual offense charge? You are not just looking at a court date. There is something called the Sex Offender Information Registration Act (SOIRA). If convicted, hello to your name and details in the National Sex Offender Registry.
And guess what? You are also signing up for the Ontario Sex Offender Registry. It is not. The membership you would want is different. This is not just about legal headaches – it is your job prospects and quality of life on the line. This is where a top-notch criminal defense lawyer comes into play.
Call Us For A Free Consultation
Facing charges of sexual interference or similar offences can often feel like you are up against a wall with no way out. But here is where things change – having a lawyer who knows their stuff is an opportunity. Our track record in Toronto speaks for itself, with numerous sexual interference cases turned around in favour of our clients.
Our approach? It’s like a detective’s keen eye – meticulously examining every detail of your case. We do not just look at the charges and evidence against you; we challenge the prosecution to prove their point beyond doubt.
Is sexual interference the same as sexual assault in Canada?
No, sexual interference is distinct from sexual assault in Canada. It specifically refers to an offense involving a sexual motive, typically involving individuals under the age of consent.
What is a sexual interference charge in Canada?
In Canada, a sexual interference charge is levelled for a sexual offence committed against someone where the perpetrator touches the individual under the age of consent with sexual intent.
What is 151 sexual interference in Canada?
Section 151 of the Canadian Criminal Code defines sexual interference as the act of touching, either directly or indirectly, any body part of a person under 16 years of age for a sexual purpose.
Can you get probation for sexual assault in Canada?
Yes, the Canadian Criminal Code allows for various sentencing options for sexual assault, including imprisonment, fines, or probation, depending on the case’s specifics.