The Hanzel Law Firm The Hanzel Law Firm
Military Sexual Offenses

Worldwide Military Defense

Military Sex Crime Defense Attorneys

Retain Aggressive Legal Defense in Charleston county

We understand the uniquely high stakes you face if you are accused of a sexual offense. In the military, a political culture of prosecuting nearly all sexual offense allegations and the impact even an uncorroborated allegation can have on servicemembers’ reputations and careers makes these stakes even higher. No one is immune from it, no matter their pay-grade. If you are accused of a sexual offense, you cannot afford to take chances. 

At the Hanzel Law Firm, we understand what you are facing and how to combat it, because these cases were the main part of our practice on active duty. We also understand that sometimes you need a military sex crime attorney from outside the system to fight the politics of sexual assault that can impact the decisions of senior officers within the system, including flag officers. This impact happens, and we have been on the front lines of it for the last decade-plus.

Why Choose Our Firm?

  • Having defended countless sexual assault and sexual harassment cases, we know how to work with experts, with your military counsel and with you to fashion a cohesive team focused on fighting for you, protecting your rights and achieving results.
  • Attorney Michael Hanzel has successfully cross-examined accusers claiming to be victims of military sexual offenses, federal law enforcement investigators and Government experts.
  • We are committed to ensuring you are treated fairly. Having prosecuted military sex offenses and having advised commands on them, we also know how to anticipate the other side’s moves.
  • If you or a loved one in the Armed Forces has been accused of a sexual offense, it is critical that you seek knowledgeable and aggressive counsel as soon as possible.

 Contact us today online or call (843) 202-4714 to request a free case evaluation.

Rape, Sexual Assault, Sexual Harassment, Solicitation, Child Sex Offenses, etc. in South Carolina

Most military sexual offenses are listed in Article 120, UCMJ, but others are included in Article 92, 120b, 120c, 125 and 134 of the UCMJ. Much like state statutes in civilian sex crime cases, military sex offenses vary in severity, but all carry significant penalties. A conviction for one of these offenses at court-martial is a federal sex conviction that will stay on your record for the rest of your life and may require you to register as a sex offender. All of these offenses have the potential to end your career, possibly with a dishonorable discharge (mandatory for sexual penetration convictions) and they can put you in jail. Recently, Congress has taken away servicemembers’ rights, both pre-trial and post-trial. In today’s climate, you cannot afford to take a sexual allegation lightly.

Penalties for Military Sex Crimes in South Carolina

Military sex crimes in South Carolina are subject to severe penalties due to the gravity of the offenses and the commitment to maintaining discipline within the armed forces. Such crimes may include sexual assault, harassment, or any form of unwanted sexual contact, and they violate both military law and civilian law.

South Carolina penalizes military sex crimes based on severity and nature. In addition to dishonorable discharge, demotion, pay forfeiture, and confinement, convictions can result in significant consequences. Within the military justice system, the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) provides a framework for prosecuting sex crimes, including court-martials.

In addition to military consequences, individuals found guilty of sex crimes may face civilian legal proceedings, including imprisonment and registration as a sex offender. The military justice system is committed to addressing these offenses swiftly and decisively, recognizing the profound impact on victims and the need for maintaining the integrity and trust within the armed forces. Seeking legal representation from an attorney experienced in military law is essential for those facing allegations of sex crimes in the military justice system in South Carolina.

The Time to Act is Now—Call (843) 202-4714

If you or a loved one has been accused of a military sexual offense, you should contact an experienced defense counsel as soon as you are accused in order to protect your rights. At The Hanzel Law Firm, we are ready to hear your side of the story and fight for you.

Fighting to Protect Your Rights, Career & Future. Call The Hanzel Law Firm at (843) 202-4714 today to get started.

What Our work means Our Values
  • Zealous & Ethical Legal Advocacy
    After serving on active duty, Attorney Michael Hanzel has since devoted himself to standing up for fellow servicemembers.
  • Fighting for Your Constitutional Rights
    As JAG, Attorney Michael Hanzel swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. He will protect your rights and fighting for your freedom.
  • Know the Criminal Justice System Inside & Out
    Our attorneys have seen the best and worst of our justice system. They will do what it takes to navigate you through its complexities.
  • Proven Track Record as US Navy JAG
    With over a decade of experience in the military justice system, Attorney Michael Hazel has achieved outstanding results for our clients.

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