Child Molestation Defense in Des Moines
Focused Defense for Sensitive Child Molestation Allegations
Iowa prosecutes conduct commonly called child molestation under statutes addressing indecent contact with a child and lascivious acts with a child. McEnroe, Steinbach, Rothman & Kendell P.C. defends people accused of these offenses by examining the charge, its required elements, and the evidence behind the allegation.
Early representation can clarify what the prosecution must prove, which court obligations are approaching, and what information may become part of criminal discovery. We handle these sensitive allegations with careful attention to the facts and the constitutional rules governing the investigation.
Call (515) 516-3745 for a free criminal defense consultation about an investigation or child molestation charge in Des Moines.
Iowa Indecent Contact with a Child Charges
Iowa Code 709.12 defines indecent contact with a child as an aggravated misdemeanor. Under this statute, a child is someone younger than 14.
The law covers specified touching of a child’s inner thigh, groin, buttock, anus, or breast for sexual gratification. Touching clothing over those areas can also fall within the statute, which further addresses soliciting or permitting a child to engage in specified contact for the same purpose.
The statute applies when the accused is at least 18 years old. It can also apply to someone who is 16 or 17 if the child is at least five years younger. These age requirements and the alleged contact are central to determining whether the charge fits the statute.
Lascivious Acts with a Child Charges in Iowa
Iowa Code 709.8 applies when a person who’s at least 16 is accused of prohibited conduct involving a child younger than 14. Lascivious acts with a child may be prosecuted as a class C felony or class D felony, depending on the alleged conduct.
Conduct addressed by the statute includes:
- Specified touching of a child’s genitals or pubes for a sexual purpose
- Causing a child to touch specified intimate areas of the accused
- Soliciting a child to engage in a sex act
The wording of the charging document matters. We review the cited subsection and compare each required element with the reports, statements, and other evidence produced in the case.
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“I engaged Gary as counsel for a legal matter. His counsel and insight were invaluable and helped me bring the matter to a successful close.”- Doug A.
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“I have used Frank a couple of times, and he has always been up front with me. He works hard to get you the best deal. Frank communicates with you, even if it seems like a stupid question, he will listen and tell you the best way to handle your problems.”- Ryan B.
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“Great experience with the McEnroe Law firm. They ask good questions to answer my problem. I feel very satisfied with my solution. You should contact them to solve your issue.”- Eric R.
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“Frank Steinbach has been my go-to attorney for both personal and business matters for years. He has a wealth of knowledge and information, but his guidance has always been spot on in the times that I've really needed it.”- Adrienne A.
Decades of Criminal Defense Experience in Iowa Courts
We have handled sex crimes as part of our criminal defense practice since 1988. Our attorneys have represented clients in trial and appellate matters in Iowa, including cases presented before the Iowa Supreme Court.
Clients can communicate with our attorneys in French and Chinese, allowing them to discuss allegations, evidence, and court obligations directly with counsel.
What to Expect During a Criminal Case
A case can progress from an investigation and charging decision through an initial appearance, discovery, pretrial motions, resolution discussions, trial, and sentencing. Its course depends on the allegations, charge level, available evidence, court rulings, and whether the case resolves before trial.
Cases involving our Des Moines and Polk County clients may be heard at the Polk County Courthouse, while some criminal matters may be negotiated outside court. We explain upcoming proceedings without assuming that every case will follow the same course.
Begin with a Free Criminal Defense Consultation
We offer free consultations for criminal defense matters, including allegations involving indecent contact or lascivious acts with a child. Payment plans are available; we accept credit cards, and we offer affordable representation for first offenses.
Our after-hours intake service allows clients and family members to reach someone outside regular business hours. During a consultation, we can discuss the charge, immediate court obligations, and the next steps in reviewing the case.
Call (515) 516-3745 to speak with us about a child molestation allegation in Des Moines.
