Q: I am getting charged with sexual abuse 3rd degree what will happen to me
A:
Iowa Code 709.4 defines sexual abuse 3rd here: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/709.4.pdf
Once you’re arrested or served with a summons to appear, your first court appearance is usually the initial appearance. Your initial appearance will happen within 24 hours of arrest if you’re in custody. At your initial appearance, the judge will tell you what you’re being charged with, what the possible consequences are, and how much you’ll have to pay to bond out of custody.
Read more about the next steps in the criminal process here: http://www.clarkandsears.com/iowa-criminal-defense-step-by-step/
Sexual abuse 3rd is a class C felony. You can find info about felony sentencing and about the sex offender registry here: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/publications/LG/14969.pdf
What you need to do is sit down with a criminal defense attorney and discuss any options you may have for evidence suppression and/or dismissal. Your attorney will also discuss plea bargaining possibilities with you, and if you choose to exercise your right to a trial, your attorney will help you prepare for trial.
No one other than your attorney has attorney-client privilege. Don't talk to anyone about your charges other than an attorney. Do not talk to the police or the prosecutor on your own behalf until you've spoken to an attorney.
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