Board Certified Specialist in State & Federal Criminal Law

Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Raleigh, North Carolina

A sex crime accusation can destroy your life—your career, your relationships, your reputation, and your freedom. These charges carry severe prison sentences, lifetime sex offender registration, and permanent social stigma. You need an experienced, aggressive defense attorney who will fight for you when no one else will.

Board Certified Specialist

State & Federal Criminal Law
One of fewer than 100 in NC

Charges Dismissed & Expunged

Kidnapping & Rape Case
Investigation proved innocence

Life Sentence Avoided

Multiple County Rape Charges
Dismissed out-of-county charges

⚠️ Confidential Consultations

We understand how sensitive these matters are. All consultations are strictly confidential. We will not judge you—we will defend you.

Sex Offenses We Defend

The Chetson Firm provides aggressive defense for all sex crime charges in North Carolina:

Rape & Sexual Assault

First and second degree rape, sexual offense charges, attempted rape, and assault with intent to commit rape.

Indecent Liberties

Indecent liberties with a minor, indecent liberties with a student, and related offenses involving minors.

Statutory Rape

Statutory rape and statutory sexual offense charges involving age of consent issues.

Sexual Battery

Misdemeanor and felony sexual battery charges, unwanted touching allegations.

Internet Sex Crimes

Online solicitation, enticement of a minor, sexting charges, and internet-based offenses.

Sex Offender Registry

Registration violations, registry removal petitions, and registration challenges.

For federal sex crimes including child pornography charges , see our Child Exploitation Defense page.

Specific Sex Offense Categories

The Stakes Are Enormous

Prison Sentences

  • First-Degree Rape: Class B1 — Up to life
  • Second-Degree Rape: Class C — 44-182 months
  • Sexual Offense with Child: Class B1 — Up to life
  • Indecent Liberties: Class F — 10-41 months
  • Statutory Rape: Class B1 Felony

Collateral Consequences

  • Sex Offender Registration: 30 years to lifetime
  • Public Registry: Name, address, photo online
  • Residence Restrictions: Cannot live near schools
  • Employment Barriers: Background checks fail
  • Custody Impact: Loss of parental rights

"Sex crime accusations carry a presumption of guilt in the public eye. Our job is to ensure the legal system provides what public opinion does not—the presumption of innocence."

Our Defense Approach

Selected Case Results

Dismissed & Expunged

Kidnapping & Rape (Wake County, 2018) — Our investigation proved innocence. All charges dismissed and expunged.

Life Avoided

Multiple County Rape Charges — Successfully had out-of-county charges dismissed, avoiding life sentence.

Reduced to Misdemeanor

Indecent Liberties — Felony reduced to misdemeanor sexual battery, avoiding sex offender registration.

6 Years vs Life

Statutory Rape — Negotiated 6-year sentence instead of potential life.

Never Charged

School Teacher Accusation — Despite school district pressure, client was never charged.

Investigation Closed

False CPS Accusations — Proved allegations were motivated by custody dispute. Investigation closed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for sex crimes in NC?

Penalties vary by offense. First-degree rape carries up to life in prison. Most convictions require sex offender registration for 30 years to life.

Do I have to register as a sex offender?

Most convictions require registration with public listing, regular check-ins, and residence restrictions. Some resolutions can avoid registration—this is critical in case strategy.

Can false accusations be defended?

Yes. False accusations occur in custody disputes, revenge situations, and misidentification. We investigate motives and challenge inconsistencies aggressively.

Should I talk to police?

No. Never speak to police without an attorney. Contact us immediately before making any statements.

Confidential Consultation

If you are facing sex crime allegations, contact us immediately. All consultations are strictly confidential.

Available 24/7 | Strictly Confidential
19 W. Hargett St., Suite 400, Raleigh, NC 27601

Important Disclaimer

Information provided does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed. Case results do not guarantee similar outcomes.