Criminal law relating to sexual offenses
Criminal law relating to sexual offenses in Germany comprises the legal provisions that regulate sexual acts and punish crimes in connection with sexual violence. These provisions serve to protect the sexual self-determination and physical integrity of citizens. The main criminal offenses include rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse of children, sexual harassment and the possession and distribution of child pornography
What is the purpose of criminal law relating to sexual offenses
In German criminal law, particular attention is paid to ensuring that sexual acts are based on the clear and voluntary consent of all parties involved. Consensual sexual relations are generally legal, whereas any form of sexual activity that is forced, violent or carried out against a person’s will is considered a criminal offense
Which offenses are included
Sexual criminal law in Germany is anchored in the German Criminal Code (StGB), in particular in Sections 174 to 184i. These sections define and sanction criminal offenses in the area of sexual self-determination and set out the legal framework for protecting victims from sexual assault and punishing offenders appropriately. It is important to note that the exact structure of sexual criminal law and possible changes in legislation can vary from time to time. Therefore, interested parties should always consult the current legal situation
What are the penalties
The penalties for sexual offenses in Germany can vary considerably depending on the severity of the offense. Here are some examples of possible penalties for committing sexual offenses:
Rape (§ 177 StGB)
Imprisonment for not less than two years; in particularly serious cases, not less than five years
Use of force or threat of imminent danger to life or limb: Imprisonment for not less than three years; in particularly serious cases not less than ten years to life imprisonment
Sexual abuse of children (§ 176 StGB)
Imprisonment for not less than one year; in serious cases not less than two years
Use of violence or threat of imminent danger to life or limb: Imprisonment for not less than two years; in serious cases not less than five years
In the event of death or serious physical abuse of the victim: not less than three years’ imprisonment; in particularly serious cases not less than ten years to life imprisonment
Sexual assault (§ 177 StGB)
Imprisonment for not less than one year; in serious cases not less than two years
Use of force or threat of imminent danger to life or limb: Imprisonment for not less than two years; in serious cases not less than five years
Sexual assault (§ 177 StGB)
Imprisonment for up to five years or a fine
Sexual harassment (Section 184i StGB)
Sexual harassment, sexual assault, child pornography, rape. The list of various sexual offenses is long. No other area of criminal law is so often associated with prior convictions as that of sexual offenses. Based on in-depth knowledge of the legal subject matter and relevant experience in sexual criminal law proceedings, as a criminal defense lawyer from Aachen I will be happy to accompany you through all instances nationwide. My goal is always to achieve a dismissal of the case, especially in the case of minor sexual offenses
Vermögensstrafrecht Aachen