Plattsmouth, Nebraska Criminal Defense Lawyers

Attorneys for Sex Crimes, Domestic Violence, Drug Charges, and More in Plattsmouth

Criminal accusations and arrests can be frightening and stressful. A person who is charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense may face penalties that could affect nearly every part of their life. In addition to jail time or other issues that could affect a person's freedom, they may be subject to harsh fines and other penalties. The criminal justice system moves quickly, and the stakes are high from the moment charges are filed or an investigation begins.

At Olsen Law Offices, P.C., L.L.O., our criminal defense attorneys understand what is at stake when a person has been arrested and charged with a crime. We work to ensure that our clients have strong legal representation, and we take steps to protect their rights, regardless of the nature of the charges. We take a careful, methodical approach to each case, examining the evidence, identifying constitutional violations, and building the strongest possible defense.

Sex Crime Charges

Accusations of sex crimes can lead to severe consequences that may begin well before a person is convicted. An accusation or arrest can destroy a person's reputation while affecting their career and personal relationships. A conviction can result in a lengthy prison sentence and other penalties, including the possibility of sex offender registration. Our lawyers understand the serious nature of these charges, and we can provide an effective defense while fighting to protect our clients' rights.

Sexual Assault

In Nebraska, there are three degrees of sexual assault. First-degree sexual assault generally involves sexual intercourse without the consent of the alleged victim, as well as situations where a victim was allegedly incapable of resisting due to mental or physical impairments. As a Class II felony, this charge could result in a person being sentenced to up to 50 years in prison.

Second-degree sexual assault involves sexual contact that takes place without a person's consent, resulting in a serious injury to the alleged victim. It is a Class IIA felony, with a potential sentence of 20 years in prison. Third-degree sexual assault may involve other forms of non-consensual sexual contact. It is a Class I misdemeanor, and a conviction may result in a jail sentence lasting for up to one year.

Child Pornography Offenses

Offenses in which a person has allegedly been involved in the sexual exploitation of minors are taken very seriously. Charges related to child pornography or child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) fall into this category. Even if a person was not directly involved in the exploitation of children, they may face serious criminal charges. Possession of child pornography is a Class IIA felony. Manufacturing or distributing CSAM is a Class ID felony, and the prison sentence upon conviction could last for up to 50 years.

Prostitution and Solicitation

A person who is accused of offering to perform sexual contact or sexual intercourse in return for money or another form of payment may face Class II misdemeanor charges. The penalties for a conviction may include up to six months in jail. Solicitation of prostitution in which a person offers to pay someone in exchange for sexual conduct is a Class I misdemeanor.

Domestic Violence Charges

A person who has been accused of abuse or other forms of violence against a family member may face criminal charges, protective orders, and other consequences that may affect them and their family. In general, domestic assault charges may apply if a person has been accused of committing violence against an intimate partner, including their spouse, their child's other parent, or someone they are currently dating or have dated in the past.

There are three degrees of domestic assault in Nebraska:

• First-Degree Domestic Assault: This offense involves intentionally causing an intimate partner to suffer a serious injury. In these situations, a person could face a Class ID felony charge.
• Second-Degree Domestic Assault: A person who is accused of intentionally injuring an intimate partner with a weapon or other dangerous item may be charged with a Class IIA felony.
• Third-Degree Domestic Assault: An intentional injury to an intimate partner, an injury that occurs through recklessness, or threats to cause an injury can result in Class I misdemeanor charges. The charges will increase to felonies if a person has been convicted of domestic assault in the past.

Drug Crime Charges

People may face serious penalties if they are charged with offenses involving controlled substances. Drug crimes may be based on the type of drug involved in a case, the amount a person allegedly possessed or distributed, and the specific actions that a person allegedly took or intended to take.

Heroin Offenses

Heroin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. Possession of even a small amount of heroin is a serious offense. A conviction for simple possession of heroin is a Class IV felony at minimum, with penalties that may include up to two years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. Possession of larger amounts can lead to more serious charges. If a person allegedly intended to distribute at least 140 grams of heroin, they could face a sentence lasting from 20 years to life in prison.

Cocaine Offenses

Cocaine and crack cocaine are Schedule II controlled substances. Possession of cocaine is generally charged as a Class IV felony. As with heroin, accusations that a person intended to distribute cocaine can result in more serious charges. Possession of less than 10 grams with intent to deliver is a Class II felony, and the charges will increase in cases involving higher amounts.

Methamphetamine Offenses

Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that is a primary focus of many drug crime investigations and prosecutions. Possession of any amount of methamphetamine can result in Class IV felony charges. Distribution or possession with intent to distribute may lead to charges ranging from a Class II felony to a Class IB felony.

Contact Our Plattsmouth, NE Criminal Defense Attorneys

While criminal charges can lead to serious penalties, legal representation can help ensure that you will be able to take steps to minimize the ways your life may be affected and prevent a conviction whenever possible. Whether you are facing sex crime accusations, domestic violence charges, drug offenses, DUI charges, weapons charges, or other accusations, the team at Olsen Law Offices, P.C., L.L.O. can provide the skilled, dedicated representation you deserve. We will work to protect your rights while advocating for solutions that will help you put your case behind you and move forward with your life. Contact our Plattsmouth criminal defense lawyers at 402-598-5789 to arrange your free consultation.