Jefferson City Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Protecting Your Rights When the Accusation Alone Can Change Everything
Being accused of a sex offense is life-altering. A strong defense starts now.

Sex crime charges are among the most serious and stigmatizing in Missouri’s criminal justice system. Whether the allegation involves sexual misconduct, statutory rape, or possession of illegal material, simply being accused can impact your reputation, career, family life, and freedom. These cases often involve complex legal issues, high emotional stakes, and intense media or community scrutiny.

At Ernst Law LLC, we defend individuals facing sex crime charges across Jefferson City and Central Missouri. Attorney Sarah Ernst provides discreet, strategic representation designed to protect your rights and ensure you are treated fairly throughout the legal process. When the stakes are this high, you need more than just a criminal lawyer—you need a focused legal advocate who understands both the law and the long-term consequences of a conviction.

Types of Sex Crime Charges We Defend

Sex crime cases vary widely in fact and severity, but all require an experienced and attentive legal defense. We handle a wide range of charges, including:

  • Sexual assault and rape

  • Statutory rape and unlawful sexual contact with a minor

  • Child pornography or possession of illegal materials

  • Internet sex crimes / online solicitation

  • Failure to register as a sex offender

  • Sexual misconduct or public indecency

Missouri law treats these offenses harshly, often requiring mandatory prison time and registration as a sex offender if convicted. We evaluate every case individually, identifying legal defenses, procedural errors, or constitutional violations that could lead to reduced charges—or a full dismissal.

What to Do If You’re Accused

Say Nothing to Police

In sex crime investigations, law enforcement may try to get a confession or casual admission. Do not speak to police or investigators without legal counsel. Statements made in panic or frustration can seriously damage your case.

Contact a Lawyer Immediately

Early legal intervention can change the outcome of your case. We can handle all communications with investigators, evaluate whether charges are likely to be filed, and begin gathering evidence in your defense before it’s lost or distorted.

Protect Your Privacy

These cases are often emotionally charged and involve sensitive allegations. At Ernst Law, we treat every case with strict confidentiality and dignity.

Defending Against Sex Crime Allegations

Sex crime charges are often built on the testimony of one witness and limited physical evidence. Our approach includes:

  • Challenging unreliable or inconsistent witness testimony

  • Scrutinizing electronic evidence for chain of custody or authenticity issues

  • Investigating false allegations or motive to lie

  • Asserting violations of constitutional rights, such as unlawful searches or interrogations

  • Presenting alternative explanations or defenses like consent or mistaken identity

We also draw from her appellate experience, looking at every decision in the case—before, during, and after trial—with an eye toward protecting your rights and preserving your ability to appeal if necessary.

Sex Offender Registration: The Hidden Penalty

A conviction for many sex offenses requires registration on Missouri’s sex offender registry. This can affect where you live, work, and even whether you can attend your children’s events. Avoiding this consequence may be possible with skilled negotiation or litigation, and it’s a key focus in every sex crime case We handle.

Why Choose Ernst Law LLC?

  • Focused, nonjudgmental representation

  • Experienced with serious felony charges and complex legal defense

  • Thorough preparation, from investigation through trial and appeal

  • Serving Jefferson City and surrounding counties, with appellate services available statewide