Allegations of sexual abuse in families are among the most serious and emotionally charged cases a person can face. Being accused of sexual activity with a child family member can devastate relationships, reputations, and entire family networks. The stigma attached to child sexual abuse means that even before a case reaches court, the consequences for the accused can be life-changing.
At Eventum Legal, our experienced defence lawyers provide compassionate, discreet, and strategic representation for anyone accused of intra-familial sexual abuse or related offences under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.
We have over 15 years’ experience defending individuals accused of offences within the family environment, including allegations involving siblings, step-relations, or other family members. So if you have been accused of or sexually abused a minor in your family, call us today!
It is an offence under section 25 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 for a person to engage in sexual activity with a child family member. The offence applies where one person (A) intentionally touches another (B), the touching is sexual, and A knows, or could reasonably be expected to know, that their relation to B is one defined under section 27 of the Act.
If the young person is under 18, and A does not reasonably believe that they are 18 or over, or if the child is under 13, the offence is complete. The maximum sentence for conviction is 14 years’ imprisonment.
These provisions aim to protect young people and vulnerable children from sexual harm within the family context. The law recognises that sexual abuse in families can involve coercion, manipulation, or emotional pressure rather than overt violence, and that victims may experience divided loyalties or self-blame.
Under section 26 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, it is also an offence to incite a child or family member to engage in sexual activity. This means encouraging or persuading a young person within the family to allow sexual touching or to engage in acts of a sexual nature.
As with Section 25, the relationship between the parties must fall within Section 27, which covers relationships such as those between siblings, parents, stepparents, uncles, aunts, and other close family members.
The maximum penalty remains 14 years, and the courts will consider factors such as age difference, power imbalance, emotional abuse, and the degree of coercion or manipulation. Every case depends on its evidence and individual circumstances, which is why early legal advice is essential.
Allegations of intra-familial sexual abuse often emerge in complex family situations involving domestic violence, mental health difficulties, or family breakdown. The police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) treat such allegations with utmost seriousness. However, it is not uncommon for misunderstandings, false memories, or external pressures to influence a disclosure.
Many young people who report sexual abuse in families do so after long periods of silence. Studies suggest that feelings of fear, shame, or loyalty conflicts often delay disclosure, particularly where the accused is a parent, sibling, or caregiver. In some cases, the accused person is entirely unaware that an allegation is being made until contacted by the police.
Our role as defence lawyers is to ensure that every allegation is tested against the available evidence and that the rights of the accused are protected at every stage of the process.
Being under investigation for intra-familial sexual abuse can be deeply distressing. Allegations of a sexual nature attract a high degree of scrutiny from the police, social services, and the wider community. It is essential to seek expert legal representation as soon as possible, ideally before a formal police interview occurs.
At Eventum Legal, we maintain early engagement with the investigating police officer and the CPS to identify and preserve crucial evidence. We work to ensure that enquiries remain balanced and that potentially exculpatory material, such as digital evidence, messages, or witness statements, is not overlooked.
In some cases, proactive communication between defence solicitors and investigators can prevent a case from proceeding to charge. Our team can also make pre-charge representations to the CPS, presenting legal and evidential arguments that demonstrate why no further action should be taken.
For a free and strictly confidential discussion about any sexual offence allegations made against you, then contact our friendly and compassionate team.
We work on a fixed fee basis, you can find out more about our services and fees by clicking here.
Cases involving sexual abuse in families have devastating effects on both the accused and other family members. The emotional toll can be immense, including isolation, anxiety, and depression. Where young people or disabled children are involved, the process can also affect non-abusing parents or carers, often leading to relationship difficulties or family breakdown.
Although our primary role is legal defence, we recognise the importance of therapeutic support and specialist advocacy services for the accused and all those affected by false sexual offence allegations.
Unfortunately, research shows that services for intra-familial sexual abuse remain piecemeal and uneven across the country. Many children and adults experience additional barriers to accessing help, especially those from lower-income backgrounds or minority communities.
Eventum Legal can help direct clients to confidential support networks alongside robust legal defence.
Our all-female legal team has extensive experience defending clients accused of child sexual abuse and sibling sexual abuse. We understand the emotional and reputational harm that allegations cause, and we work tirelessly to protect your rights and reputation.
We collaborate with leading barristers and forensic experts to challenge evidence, identify inconsistencies in statements, and ensure the court hears the case in its proper context. Our goal is to safeguard your liberty, defend your name, and reduce the devastating impact these accusations can have on your life and family environment.
If you are accused of sexual activity with a child or family member, contact us immediately for confidential legal advice. The earlier you seek representation, the more effectively we can protect your interests and begin building your defence.
