Have you been charged with Performing Female Genital Mutilation?
If you have, you will need to engage a specialist criminal law practitioner to help you prepare your defence.
There are a number of things to consider if you have been charged with this offence. Can the prosecution make out their case? Are you clear as to what constitutes female genital mutilation? Are you familiar with the legislation? Did you act alone or are you the co-accused?
Female genital mutilation is defined broadly in Section 15 of the Crimes Act 1958. You must consider whether the alleged conduct fits the definitions contained in the Legislation.
This is an extremely serious charge, and you should be aware that a guilty finding could result in up to 15 years imprisonment. Discuss your options carefully with an experienced criminal lawyer before you proceed further.
Please read below for more information in relation to this charge.
The offence
Section 32 of the Crimes Act 1958
The prosecution must prove:
The defendant performed female genital mutilation on a child; or
The defendant performed female genital on a person other than a child.
The maximum penalty
Level 4 imprisonment being a maximum of 15 years.
Where will my case be heard?
The Offence to Perform Female Genital Mutilation cases can only be heard in the County Court or Supreme Court of Victoria.
Questions to consider
Do you have a defence?
If you are pleading guilty, what can you do to minimise your sentence?
What to do next?
See an experienced criminal lawyer urgently.
Preparation in relation to any matter is critical. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
If you have been charged with Performing Female Genital Mutilation make an appointment to see one of experienced lawyers today.
The legislation
Section 32 Offence to perform female genital mutilation
(1) A person must not perform female genital mutilation on a child.
Penalty: Level 4 imprisonment (15 years maximum).
(2) A person must not perform on a person other than a child any type of female genital mutilation referred to in paragraphs (a) to (e) of the definition of female genital mutilation.
Penalty: Level 4 imprisonment (15 years maximum).
