Defense Against Charges Of Rape
Under Ohio law, rape is a first-degree felony. Depending on the circumstances of the offense, a conviction can lead to a sentence of life in prison. Any person accused of rape should immediately consult with an experienced and skilled criminal defense attorney, regardless of whether charges have been filed.
At Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima, our lawyers have more than 200 years of combined legal experience. Our criminal defense team includes leaders of the legal community. We are committed to protecting the rights of people accused of criminal acts, including sex offenses such as rape.
To discuss your situation with a knowledgeable defense attorney, contact us online or call 513-496-0134 as soon as possible. From our offices in Cincinnati, Lebanon and Oxford, we help clients across Ohio.
Sex Crimes, Stigma And Bias
Many Americans understand that an accused person is innocent until proven guilty. In the case of sex crimes, however, people seem quite willing to make judgments without waiting for the evidence.
The impact of a rape accusation is hard to overstate. The impact of a conviction for rape is undeniable. The criminal penalties, including years in prison, the stigma of registration as a sex offender and more, have the power to shape the rest of your life. Your lawyer can literally save your life.
Types Of Rape
Rape can occur in various situations and contexts. Understanding the different types can be critical for a legal defense. Some of the types include:
- Forcible rape: Sexual assault with the use of force or threat of force against the target.
- Statutory rape: Engaging in sexual activity with a minor who is below the age of consent, even if the minor is a willing participant.
- Date rape: Rape that occurs in the context of a date or romantic relationship.
- Marital rape: Nonconsensual sex where the perpetrator is the victim’s spouse.
This list is not exhaustive, and other forms of sexual violence can also be considered rape, depending on jurisdiction and specific circumstances.
Penalties For Rape
The consequences of a rape conviction are severe and can include the following:
- Lengthy prison sentences, potentially including life in prison without parole
- Mandatory registration as a sex offender, impacting employment, housing and community standing
- Fines and restitution to the person who has suffered harm
These penalties are determined by the legal system and may vary widely depending on the jurisdiction and the details of the offense.
Evidence And Criminal Trials
A person accused of a crime is not guilty. Prosecutors must attempt to prove guilt beyond any reasonable doubt in a court of law. Many times, however, friends, family members and lawyers believe a person is guilty because he has been accused.
Our decades of experience, including a record of success in countless criminal trials, give our clients an advantage. We can help build a case to counter the prosecution and demonstrate innocence. In many cases, we have been able to get charges dismissed, dropped or reduced.
Potential Defenses For Rape
A strong defense is crucial for anyone accused of rape. Some potential defenses include:
- Consent: Demonstrating that the sexual activity was consensual
- Alibi: Providing evidence that the accused was not present at the time of the alleged crime
- False accusations: Proving that the accusations were fabricated or mistaken.
It’s essential for the legal system to carefully examine the evidence and circumstances surrounding each case to ensure a fair trial and a just outcome for all involved.
Contact Us Right Away
Our firm has the resources to do a full investigation in support of your rights. From our offices in Cincinnati, Lebanon and West Chester, we have handled cases all over Ohio.
The longer you wait, the harder it will be to present a strong rape defense. Please do not wait to hire a lawyer if you have been accused.
Smart people hire lawyers before speaking with the police. Hiring a lawyer to combat charges for a sex offense is not a sign of guilt. Please contact us by completing an online form or by calling 513-496-0134.
