When criminal justice and family matters intertwine, the expertise of seasoned professionals like Beth Hoel Goulden becomes indispensable. With 25 years of experience at Maricopa County Adult Probation and a specialization in sex offenses, Goulden brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She recently shared her experience with Modern Law family attorneys who sometimes find themselves helping clients dealing with criminal issues, particularly as they relate to sex offenses.
Sex Offenses: Not a Monolith
Sex offenses encompass a range of behaviors and circumstances, with the legal system often grappling with laws that haven’t kept pace with societal changes. In some instances, individuals are ensnared by registration laws for actions that today might be viewed through a more understanding lens, such as consensual relationships between teenagers. This has far-reaching implications, especially when past offenses surface in custody battles or visitation rights discussions.
The Intricacies of Offender Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation journey is multifaceted, involving various assessments and treatments that aim to gauge an individual’s risk and potential for reintegration into society, Goulden says. Therapies and probationary measures are rigorous, and successfully navigating them is often indicative of genuine rehabilitation efforts. For someone who has made a single poor decision, the path to redemption should not be mixed up with those who pose a persistent danger to society.
Understanding Terminology and Assessing Risk
Precise terminology is critical in legal arguments, as misapplied labels can unfairly influence case outcomes. Understanding who truly fits the profile of a ‘pedophile’ versus someone whose offense was of a different nature is essential for fair legal outcomes. This distinction is crucial in family law, where such terms can unjustly skew perceptions of risk to children, affecting familial relationships and parenting time.
Gender Dynamics in Sex Offenses
While the majority of sex offenses involve male perpetrators, Goulden points out that female offenders are also present, albeit for often different reasons. It’s essential to recognize the diverse motivations and contexts within which offenses occur and to apply this understanding judiciously in both criminal and family law settings.
Access to Records and Legal Advocacy
For legal practitioners, obtaining comprehensive records is a vital part of building a case. Navigating the procedures to release these records requires diligence and an understanding of the judicial barriers in place. Attorneys play a crucial role in ensuring that the courts have access to the necessary information to make informed decisions, particularly regarding treatment and rehabilitation.
The Challenge of Family Law Allegations
When allegations of abuse arise within the context of shared parenting, Goulden recommends a careful approach, prioritizing the welfare of the child and the integrity of the investigation. Trained professionals should be engaged to interact with potential victims, minimizing the risk of tainting testimony and ensuring that any legal actions are based on sound evidence.
Sensitivity is Needed
Sex offense cases demand a high degree of sensitivity and a comprehensive understanding of the law when the issue becomes a part of a family law case. Goulden advises that parties to such cases need expertise, and accurate assessments, including an understanding of appropriate legal procedures, and the rehabilitation process. This knowledge is critical in addressing the direction of family law cases that may touch on past criminal convictions that influence family law issues..
