Sexual Offences Involving Children

The term ‘child sexual offences’ refers to a broad range of criminal acts involving victims who are, or were at the time of the offence, under the age of 18. The law, primarily set out in the Sexual Offences Act 2003, outlines numerous specific offences aimed at protecting children and young people and takes into account the age of the alleged victim as well as the nature of the conduct.

Age-specific offences include:

• Under 13: A child under 13 cannot legally consent to any sexual activity. Any sexual act involving someone of this age is treated with the highest seriousness and carries some of the most severe penalties available in UK law.
• Under 16: Sexual activity with a child under 16 is a criminal offence, even if they appear to have consented.
• Under 18: Certain offences apply specifically to 16 and 17-year-olds where there is an abuse of trust or authority, for example, involving teachers, coaches, religious leaders, or other caregivers.

What may be lawful between consenting adults can become a criminal offence if there is a power imbalance or significant age gap.

Grooming offences involve building trust or emotional connection with a child, often over a period of time, with the intention of later engaging in sexual activity or exploitation. These offences are taken extremely seriously under UK law, particularly when they involve online communication.

Common grooming-related charges include:

• Sexual communication with a child
• Arranging or facilitating a child sex offence
• Attempting to meet a child following sexual grooming

In many cases, the accused may never have met the child in person and the evidence relies heavily on messages, chat logs, or online activity.

Grooming allegations may also arise from:

• Undercover police operations, where officers pose as children online
• Interactions with so-called “paedophile hunter” groups, who may film confrontations or hand evidence to the police

These cases raise complex legal issues, including questions of entrapment, how the evidence was obtained and whether proper procedures were followed.

We treat every case with care, discretion and professionalism. When you instruct GSB, we take a structured and thorough approach to defending sexual offences involving children:

• Initial Case Review: We listen to your account, advise on the law and explain the charges and potential outcomes.
• Evidence Analysis: We examine all evidence, including digital communications, forensic material and witness statements.
• Challenging Legality: Where vigilante groups or undercover officers are involved, we examine whether your rights were breached or if any part of the legal process was mishandled.
• Defence Strategy: We develop a clear defence strategy based on the facts of your case, whether challenging identity, intention, evidence, or process.
• Expert Support: Where necessary, we instruct trusted digital forensic experts, psychologists, or legal specialists to assist with your defence.
• Court Representation: We guide you through each stage of the legal process and ensure the right barrister is instructed to present your case in court.

Facing an allegation of a sexual offence involving a child is life-changing. At GSB, we offer more than just legal representation, we provide calm, compassionate guidance and work with you to build a strong, fair defence.

Our team offers expert knowledge of UK sexual offence law, tailored defence strategies and clear, honest advice throughout. Above all, we offer discreet, compassionate support during this difficult time.