Defending a Wrongful Statutory Rape Charge

Statutory rape is a serious charge which can result in imprisonment, fines, restitution, probation, sex offender registration requirements and other undesirable penalties. A lawyer experienced in sex crime law can assist you with preparing your defense to a statutory rape charge.

Statutory Rape Charges

Statutory rape is defined as an adult having sexual intercourse with a minor. The age of legal consent may vary slightly from state to state, so be sure you understand what constitutes a minor in your state. 

Generally, there is a lower age limit to have the offense constitute statutory rape rather than molestation or some other child related sexual offense. Again, the age limits will vary according to state law.

How to Defend Yourself

If you are facing wrongful statutory rape charges, you may be hurt and have difficulty pulling your life together to prepare a proper defense. You need to act quickly and take every measure needed to present a strong case, including:

• Hire an attorney to help you with your case.
• Discuss all of the facts of your relationship with the alleged victim with your attorney in a confidential place where you cannot be overheard.
• Ask for guidance about what kind of evidence can help your case.
• Provide your attorney with a list of people who can be interviewed to help present your strongest case.
• Discuss possible motivations the alleged victim may have for wrongfully accusing you. Generally, there is something behind the charges such as embarrassment, hurt feelings or jealousy. If you can flesh out the motivation, you have a better chance of winning if your case goes to trial.

Sex Offender Registration

Conviction for most sex related crimes, no matter how serious, generally results in a requirement that you register with your state as a convicted sex offender. This can result in the availability of your name, photo and address to the public. It can embarrass you and your family tremendously. The worse part is that it is often imposed on convicts for a life time, unless they are later able to get a certificate of rehabilitation, pardon or appeal their case.

Getting Legal Help

A sex crime defense attorneys will understand the importance of defending your rape case. If you have been charged with statutory rape, you may face serious consequences such as a lengthy prison sentence, fines and restitution. Hiring a knowledgeable attorney is an important step to fighting for your freedom and rights.