Why Background Matters in Sex Crime Defense

Most defense lawyers understand criminal law. Far fewer understand how prosecutors actually build sex offense cases—and fewer still have built those cases themselves. Patrick Roberts has. That’s what makes his approach different. His years as a prosecutor included work on high-stakes sex crime cases—giving him firsthand insight into the patterns, playbooks, and pitfalls that inexperienced defense lawyers often miss.

Combined with his academic pedigree and trial-level defense training, this background matters. It allows for surgical analysis of the evidence, stronger motions practice, more effective negotiations, and courtroom-ready defense if trial becomes necessary.

Penalties for Sex Crimes in Raleigh, Wake County & Durham County

If convicted of a sex-related offense in North Carolina, you may face:

• Mandatory minimum prison sentences
• Registration on the North Carolina Sex Offender Registry
• Public access to your personal information
• Restrictions on where you can live or work
• Lifetime electronic monitoring or parole oversight
• Termination from employment or loss of licenses
• Ineligibility for federal aid or higher education

Whether you're in Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Chapel Hill, or a surrounding area, these penalties can follow you for life—and impact your entire family.

Proven Results in Complex Sex Offense Cases

Sex crime allegations often come down to credibility, digital evidence, and the ability to create doubt before a jury ever hears the case. Patrick Roberts has a long track record of helping clients avoid convictions and protect their futures.

Recent results include:

• Statutory Rape – All Charges Dismissed. Read more
• Felony Child Abuse – Serious Charges Dropped, No Jail Time. Read more
• Indecent Liberties – Investigation Closed, No Charges Filed. Read more

View more sex offense case outcomes on the Results page.

Pretrial Sex Crime Defense Strategies

The pretrial phase is often where sex crime cases are won or lost. Every allegation is dissected with a critical eye toward:

• Illegal search and seizure
• Digital evidence violations (e.g., improper collection from phones or cloud storage)
• Witness credibility and inconsistencies
• Lack of physical or forensic evidence
• Timeline flaws and alibi confirmation

Preparation here creates leverage—whether that’s to negotiate dismissal or to prepare a winning trial strategy.

Defending College Students Accused of Sexual Misconduct

Students from Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, and other local universities may face both criminal charges and Title IX investigations. That dual process can lead to school expulsion, loss of scholarships, or denial of future educational opportunities. Defense strategies in these cases require familiarity with university procedures, campus investigators, and the criminal courts simultaneously.

Juvenile Sex Crime Defense in Wake and Durham Counties

Juvenile court functions very differently than adult court, especially for sex offenses. If your child is accused of sexting, inappropriate contact, or indecent liberties, early legal intervention is essential. These cases must be handled with a focus on long-term rehabilitation and record protection.

The Realities of Sex Offender Registration in North Carolina

Conviction for many sex crimes requires registration on the North Carolina Sex Offender Registry. This brings:

• Mandatory in-person reporting
• Public access to your home address and photo
• Limitations on where you can live or work
• Possible lifetime supervision

In some cases, removal from the registry is possible after a waiting period. Learn more in the Sex Offender Registry Guide.

What to Do If You’re Falsely Accused of a Sex Crime in North Carolina

Remain silent. Do not speak to police, school administrators, or investigators without a defense lawyer present. Even if the accusation seems absurd or unfair, your statements can be used against you. Immediate legal representation can preserve key evidence and prevent irreversible missteps.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Crime Defense

Can sex crime charges be dropped in North Carolina?

Yes, but only the District Attorney can dismiss charges — not the alleged victim. Patrick Roberts has successfully intervened early in investigations to get charges dropped before they’re even filed.

Will I have to register as a sex offender if I’m convicted?

Most felony sex crimes require registration. Some misdemeanor convictions may also trigger registry requirements. Patrick’s defense strategies aim to avoid conviction or negotiate outcomes that do not include registry requirements.

Can Patrick Roberts represent me outside of Raleigh?

Yes. Patrick handles sex crime cases throughout Wake County, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, and surrounding areas. He frequently appears before judges in district and superior courts across central North Carolina.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation Today

If you or someone you love is facing sex crime charges in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, or anywhere in Wake or Durham County, don’t wait. Your future may depend on what happens next.

Call 919-746-7206 or request a consultation online with a Raleigh sex offense attorney who understands what’s at stake—and how to fight back.