ANALISIS YURIDIS SOSIOLOGIS PROSES PEMBERIAN PEMBELAAN OLEH PENASIHAT HUKUM DALAM TINDAK PIDANA KEKERASAN SEKSUAL DI LUAR PERKAWINAN (STUDI KASUS PERKARA NOMOR 209/PID.SUS/2025/PN.MLG)

Sexual violence is one of the most serious and complex forms of crime in modern society, because it not only violates legal norms but also destroys the physical, psychological, and social integrity of victims. Regulations related to sexual violence crimes in Indonesia have undergone significant developments with the enactment of Law No. 12 of 2022 concerning Sexual Violence Crimes, which provides more comprehensive protection for victims compared to the Criminal Code. In this case, the role of legal counsel is important as it embodies the principles of equality before the law and due process of law, whereby everyone is entitled to legal assistance regardless of the type of crime. This study uses an empirical juridical method with a focus on a legislative approach related to legal norms concerning cases and a case approach that examines the actual case process at the Malang District Court, obtained through observation, interviews, and document review. This study explains the performance of advocates in providing professional defense for defendants. In addition, this study also describes the settlement process, the role of researchers, and analyzes the defense provided by lawyers in the settlement process of sexual violence criminal cases at the Malang District Court with case number 209/Pid.Sus/2025/PN Mlg. This research is expected to contribute to the development of legal science, especially in the field of criminal law and human rights, particularly in cases of sexual violence, for all readers and legal practitioners.