Sex Crimes 

Being accused of a sex crime is one of the most terrifying experiences a person can face. Unlike other criminal charges, sex offenses carry a unique stigma that can destroy your personal relationships, your career, and your standing in the community long before you ever step foot in a courtroom.

In Tennessee, the consequences of a conviction go far beyond jail time and fines. You may face mandatory lifetime registration on the Tennessee Sex Offender Registry, restricting where you can live, work, and simply exist.

At Nicholson & Hall, PLLC, we understand the gravity of these accusations. We know that in sex crime cases, the system is often stacked against the accused from day one. You need a defense team that is not only aggressive and knowledgeable but also completely non-judgmental. We are here to listen to your side of the story and fight to protect your future.

1. Internet Sex Crimes & Solicitation

In the digital age, law enforcement in Nashville and Middle Tennessee has ramped up "sting operations" targeting online activity. These cases often involve complex entrapment scenarios where police officers pose as minors in chat rooms or on dating apps.

• Solicitation of a Minor (T.C.A. § 39-13-528): Under Tennessee law, you can be charged with a felony even if no physical contact ever occurred. Simply communicating with someone you believe to be a minor for sexual purposes is a serious crime.
• Distribution of Harmful Material (T.C.A. § 39-17-902): Sending explicit images to a minor (or an officer posing as one) carries severe penalties.

2. Indecent Exposure

While often classified as a misdemeanor, Indecent Exposure is not a "minor" charge. A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record and, in certain repetitive or aggravated circumstances, can trigger sex offender registration requirements.

Indecent Exposure (T.C.A. § 39-13-511) involves the intentional exposure of genitals or private parts in a public place, or where there is a reasonable expectation that it would be viewed by others who would be offended.

3. Sexual Assault & Rape

Allegations of sexual assault are life-altering. In Tennessee, the distinction between "Sexual Battery" and "Rape" often comes down to the specific nature of the contact (penetration vs. touching), but both carry felony penalties and long prison sentences.

• Rape: Unlawful sexual penetration by force, coercion, or without consent.
• Sexual Battery: Unlawful sexual contact with an intimate part of the body without consent.
• Aggravated Charges: If a weapon is involved or bodily injury occurs, the penalties escalate drastically.

4. Statutory Rape & Crimes Involving Minors

Tennessee has strict laws regarding sexual activity with minors, but the law also recognizes that not every situation is predatory. However, prosecutors often charge these cases aggressively, regardless of the context.

• Statutory Rape: Sexual penetration where the victim is under the age of 18. The severity of the charge depends heavily on the age gap between the parties (e.g., if the defendant is more than 4 years older).
• Aggravated Statutory Rape: Involves larger age gaps or younger victims.

Why Hire Nicholson & Hall, PLLC?

When you are facing sex crime charges, you cannot afford a "wait and see" approach. You need a firm that acts fast and discreetly.

• We Are Non-Judgmental: We offer a safe, confidential space. We are not here to judge your choices; we are here to defend your rights.
• We Are Trial-Ready: Prosecutors know which attorneys will plea out and which will fight. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations.
• We Understand the Stakes: We know that avoiding the Sex Offender Registry is often the most critical goal. We build our defense strategies specifically to minimize the long-term impact on your life.

Do not speak to detectives or investigators without an attorney present. They are trained to get you to incriminate yourself. You have a right to remain silent under the Constitution, and you need to use it. Consult an attorney before you ever go meet with a detective and give a statement. 

Contact Nicholson & Hall, PLLC today at 615-913-3932 for a confidential consultation.