Communication with a Minor for Immoral Purposes

Sex crimes involving minors represent some of the most serious charges in Washington’s criminal justice system. These charges can range from actual physical contact and assault to the possession of explicit materials and even electronic or in-person communications. When these charges involve communication with a minor for immoral purposes, defendants face severe legal consequences that can permanently alter their lives.

What Is Communication with a Minor for Immoral Purposes?

Washington defines communication with a minor for immoral purposes broadly under RCW 9.68A.090. This offense encompasses any communication directed at someone under 18 years old that promotes exposure to or involvement in sexual misconduct. Minors cannot legally consent to sexual activity, regardless of the circumstances.

This communication can take many forms, from direct conversations to indirect methods like leaving notes. Even if the minor never sees or understands the message, the act of attempting to communicate for immoral purposes is also a crime.

Many of these cases involve electronic communications, such as text messages, emails, and social media interactions. If a defendant communicates with someone that they believe to be a minor for immoral purposes, they can also face criminal charges if caught, such as in cases involving law enforcement sting operations.

Potential Penalties for Communication with a Minor Charges

Communication with a minor for immoral purposes is usually charged as a gross misdemeanor. These crimes carry up to 364 days in jail and fines of up to $5,000. However, when the case involves commercial sexual activity or trafficking via electronic communications, the charge escalates to a Class C felony. These convictions can carry up to five years in prison and $10,000 in fines.

Beyond these immediate penalties, defendants may also face mandatory sex offender registration. They will need to provide extensive personal information to law enforcement that is available to the public, including their picture, where they live, and the details of the charge. Registration can restrict where someone lives, works, or travels, creating lifelong challenges.

How a Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Can Protect Your Rights

If you are facing charges for communication with a minor for immoral purposes, you need an attorney on your side. These cases can be risky to handle alone, requiring deep knowledge of Washington child molestation laws as well as an objective, level-headed approach to building an effective defense strategy. A lawyer can support your case by:

• Assessing all of the evidence laid against you 
• Gathering more evidence through independent investigations
• Challenging the prosecution’s interpretation of communications
• Investigating possible constitutional violations in evidence collection
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties
• Developing case strategies based on mistaken identity, coercion, or other common defenses

Contact The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz Today

The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz brings decades of experience defending against sex crime allegations in Tacoma. If you are facing charges involving communication with a minor, sexual assault, domestic violence, or any other offense, our firm can defend your rights and protect your future. Contact us today at (253) 272-8666 for a confidential consultation with a Washington sex crimes defense attorney.