Sodomy in Georgia: Defining it and Defending it
The State of Georgia, like many states, carries a very specific definition of sodomy and considers it a highly serious offense. Regardless of whether you are convicted, the accusation alone can cause long-lasting harm to your reputation. And if you are convicted, you can expect to face severe consequences. Fighting a charge of sodomy may seem like an impossible struggle, but there is always hope to reduce or dismiss your charges.
What Does Georgia Consider Sodomy?
While the definition of sodomy may seem straightforward, the state of Georgia has defined it in a precise way. To begin with, sodomy is not simply (or legally) defined as just oral or anal sex. Due to privacy laws guaranteed by the state constitution, these acts are legal as long as they are done in a private setting between consenting adults. While oral or anal sex is not illegal in and of themselves, you can be charged with sodomy if you engage in either of these acts in a public setting or without consent from the other party.
Is Sodomy Considered a Misdemeanor or a Felony in Georgia?
There is no real straight yes or no answer to this question, as several factors come into play here. In most cases, sodomy will be considered a misdemeanor unless the charges are escalated to aggravated sodomy.
What is a Typical Jail Sentence for Sodomy?
Again, there are several factors at play that will determine sentencing, but generally any person convicted of sodomy can expect imprisonment of 1 to 20 years.
What Are the Other Consequences?
Beyond the mandatory jail time, you can expect to pay hefty fines as well as court costs, serve probation and community service, and carry the charge on your permanent criminal record. In addition, you may also possibly be sent for clinical evaluations.
How Does the State of Georgia Define Aggravated Sodomy?
Under Georgia Law, sodomy becomes defined as aggravated sodomy when it involves threats or violence or physical force to intimidate the other party and coerce them into performing or submitting to acts of sodomy. In addition to the matter of consent, any act of sodomy with a person who is less than ten years of age will be considered aggravated sodomy.
Will an Aggravated Sodomy Charge Place Me on the Sex Offender Registry?
Yes. Those who have been charged with aggravated sodomy and convicted as such will be compelled to register as a sex offender, with the life-long conditions that follow.
Can a Charge of Sodomy be Dismissed?
Yes. An accusation of a crime is not a conviction, and we have been able to successfully dismiss or reduce the charges with many clients.
What Are Your First Steps?
Right away, the first order of business is to investigate the details of your particular case. We start on day one, tracking down any and all evidence and information that could help your case. When it comes to a charge of sodomy, no detail is too small and no lead is too obscure. We hunt down every piece of witness testimony or physical evidence we can to give the court the facts about your case.
What Can You Do to Help?
Simply put, we can put our reputation and years of experience to work for you. We understand the feelings of helplessness you’re experiencing, because we’ve seen them in our clients before replacing that sadness with hope. We empower our clients. We win the tough cases. And we give you options you didn’t know you had.
The Best Defense, At Your Service
A conviction of sodomy, or any sex crime, can have lasting impacts that go far beyond fines, fees and jail time. It is a lifetime mark of shame on your criminal record, one that can keep you from living a full life. So it’s crucial that you find the best attorneys for your case, ones who have your best interests in mind and have the legal skills to mount an effective defense.
Call us today for a free, confidential evaluation of your case.