A sexual battery accusation can destroy your reputation, jeopardize your freedom, and permanently alter your future. At Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, we understand the high stakes involved. We provide unwavering, strategic defense for individuals accused of sexual battery throughout Memphis and Shelby County. If you or a loved one is facing these charges, do not face the legal system alone. Our attorneys have the courtroom experience and tenacity to fight for your rights, freedom, and future.
Sexual battery is defined under Tennessee Code § 39-13-505 as unlawful sexual contact with a victim by the defendant—or vice versa—under any of the following circumstances:
Sexual contact includes intentional touching of intimate parts—either directly or through clothing—if done for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification.
Tennessee law includes specific provisions regarding professionals:
This protects patients and clients from exploitation by those in positions of trust.
Sexual battery is a Class E felony in Tennessee. A conviction can result in:
In addition to incarceration, a sexual battery conviction can haunt you for life through the sex offender registry, employment background checks, housing restrictions, and social stigma.
While both offenses involve unlawful sexual contact, aggravated sexual battery is a more serious charge that may include:
Aggravated sexual battery is classified as a Class B felony and carries far harsher penalties.
At Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, we approach every sexual battery case with urgency, precision, and care. Depending on your circumstances, our defense strategies may include:
If the alleged conduct occurred, we may demonstrate that it was consensual and that no force, coercion, or fraud was used.
False accusations of sexual misconduct can arise from misunderstandings, revenge, mental health issues, or manipulation in family or custody disputes. We thoroughly investigate and expose inconsistencies.
Prosecutors must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge the evidence, question credibility, and ensure your constitutional rights are protected throughout.
If law enforcement violated your rights during arrest, search, or interrogation, we may seek to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.
Sexual battery charges require experienced, battle-tested legal defense. Here’s why clients trust Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers:
We understand how difficult it is to be accused of such a stigmatizing offense. Our firm treats every client with dignity while building the strongest possible defense.
If you are under investigation or have been arrested for sexual battery:
The earlier we get involved, the more options we may have to resolve your case discreetly or get charges reduced—or even dismissed.
A sexual battery accusation can affect everything from your freedom to your family relationships. You need a defense team that knows the law, understands the court system in Memphis, and will go to battle for you.
At Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, we handle these cases with skill, discretion, and strength. Let us help protect your reputation, future, and freedom.
Sexual battery is defined under Tennessee Code § 39-13-505 as unlawful sexual contact that occurs under certain circumstances, such as the use of force or coercion, lack of consent, or when the alleged victim is mentally or physically unable to give consent. It also includes situations where the contact is obtained through fraud or during certain professional relationships, like counseling or medical treatment.
Yes. In Tennessee, sexual battery does not require the use of physical violence. A person can be charged if the contact was non-consensual or involved someone who was legally unable to consent—such as someone who was unconscious, mentally incapacitated, or under the influence.
Sexual battery is a Class E felony in Tennessee. A conviction can carry 1 to 6 years in prison, fines up to $3,000, and mandatory sex offender registration. Beyond the legal penalties, a conviction can also severely damage your reputation, employment opportunities, and personal relationships.
A skilled defense lawyer can investigate the facts, challenge the credibility of the accusation, uncover motives to lie, and assert defenses such as mistaken identity or consent. At Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, we focus on protecting your future and building a defense strategy designed to get your charges reduced—or dismissed altogether.
The prosecutors are already building their case against you. Every day you wait is another day they get stronger.
But you don’t have to face this alone.
