Sex Crimes Attorney Serving The Salem Area
If you have been accused of a sex crime or you have learned someone intends to make an allegation against you, hiring a good lawyer is a must. I am Daniel J. Lounsbury, and as a criminal defense lawyer for over 30 years, I have successfully helped people accused of these serious crimes navigate their way forward. Do not walk this stressful and complex path alone.
Experienced Marion County Lawyer For Those Accused Of Sex Abuse Crimes
Few areas of law have undergone more recent change than sex crimes. In many cases, mandatory minimum sentencing laws make felony sex crime penalties more severe than those for first-degree murder.
Our rule of law determines a person’s innocence until proven guilty. In the matter of sex crimes, this is rarely assumed by investigators, police and child welfare staff. Sex crime allegations place stress on marriages and families, and often require changes in living arrangements or employment even before an investigation is complete. Because the penalties are so severe, it is critical that you have legal counsel assist you if you are accused of a crime.
“When my teenage step-daughter falsely accused me of inappropriate physical contact, I felt betrayed and devastated. I was told by the police and Child Welfare to move out of my home and stop seeing my own children. I turned to attorney Dan Lounsbury for help. His effective representation prevented me from being charged with a crime and allowed me to become part of my family again.” Carl S.
I have helped many Salem area clients, and I can help you too. I offer a “no surprise” flat fee arrangement so you know up front what you are going to pay for my representation.
Sexual Abuse In Oregon: First, Second And Third Degree Explained
Oregon law divides sexual abuse into three degrees. Each degree carries different penalties and consequences.
Third-degree sexual abuse is a Class A misdemeanor. It involves unwanted sexual contact without consent and can result in up to 364 days in jail and fines. Second-degree sexual abuse is a Class C felony. It involves sexual contact with someone who cannot legally consent, such as a physically helpless or underage person. A conviction can bring up to five years in prison and may require sex offender registration.
First-degree sexual abuse is a Class B felony under Oregon’s Measure 11 sentencing laws. Measure 11 mandates a minimum sentence of 75 months in prison without early release or reduction. These charges typically involve victims under 14 years old or allegations of forcible compulsion.
What To Do If You Are Accused Of A Sex Crime In Oregon
The moments after an accusation move fast. If someone accuses you of a sex crime, take these steps immediately:
- Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney present
- Do not consent to searches of your phone, computer or other electronic devices without legal advice
- Preserve all texts, emails, and social media messages and do not delete anything
- Avoid all contact with the accuser, even to explain your side of the story
- Comply strictly with any restraining order or no-contact order already in place
- Write down a detailed timeline and identify potential witnesses
These early actions protect your rights and give me the best opportunity to build your defense.
Understanding The Oregon Sex Crime Investigation Process
Most people do not know what to expect after someone files a sex crime report. A sex crime investigation in Oregon typically follows these stages:
- The report: A victim, parent or another party files a report with law enforcement, opening a formal investigation.
- Police interview requests: Investigators often ask for a voluntary conversation. Never agree to one without an attorney present.
- Search warrants: Police may seek warrants to search your home, vehicle or devices. Do not consent to searches beyond what a warrant covers.
- Forensic interviews: In child cases, trained examiners conduct structured interviews with the alleged victim.
If the case involves a child, Oregon’s Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Welfare division may open a parallel investigation with its own timeline and standards. A criminal acquittal does not automatically close a DHS case. Prosecutors may take the case to a grand jury or file charges directly. A judge then sets bail and release conditions, which often include no-contact orders. Violating any condition can result in immediate arrest and serious harm to your defense.
Contact Daniel J. Lounsbury Attorney at Law
Contact my office in Salem, Oregon, at 503-967-3119 for a no-cost phone consultation. I have someone on staff who speaks Spanish.