Bucks County Rape Lawyer
Rape is defined as having sex against the wishes of the other involved party, or with a someone who does not have the ability to consent, and in a forcible manner which prevents a person from fighting back.
In other words, rape is defined as a sexual assault with unwanted sexual contact between the parties. This offense is graded as a felony in the first degree and is treated extremely seriously by prosecutors and judges. As a result of this treatment, it is imperative to seek the assistance of a Bucks County rape lawyer if accused as an experienced sex crimes attorney can help build a defense and advocate on your behalf.
How Rape is Charged
Rape can be charged in a number of ways . First and foremost, rape graded as a felony in the first degree involves an individual making inappropriate contact in a sexual manner towards another individual. In addition, that contact was made towards an individual who either does not have the ability to consent because of age or mental incapacity or who simply did not consent. Force comes into play and, as such, this rape is graded as a felony of the first degree.
Additionally, other forms of rape come into play, some defined by statute, some defined by common law. For instance, statutory rape involves consensual acts between individuals. However, one person is four or more years older than the other and the younger of the two is 16 years old or below. That is, in cases where the victim is 16 years or younger and the other consensual actor is four or more years older, the rape of statutory sexual assault and/or statutory rape applies in the eyes of the courts and should only be addressed with the assistance of a Bucks County rape lawyer.
Related Offenses
Sexual assault may also come into play by itself, depending on whether allegations of penetration come into play. Sexual assault in and of itself does not involve all penetration. However, under rape statutes and others, penetration does play a role.
In addition, indecent assault, corrupting the morals of a minor, endangering the welfare of children all can be combined with the crime of sexual assault and become active components when a person is being charged with such charges.
Should a person be charged with rape, statutory rape, a date rape scenario, it is important that they understand that in Bucks County it is very likely that they will also be charged with up to 10 other charges involving specific acts.
How A Bucks County Rape Attorney Can Help
Because of the serious nature of the charges and the severity of the possible penalties, it is important that anyone who finds themselves on the receiving end of a sexual assault investigation contact a Bucks County rape lawyer immediately. Obtaining the services of a qualified and experienced sexual assault attorney is often an invaluable step when it comes to preparing a proper defense and navigating the often overwhelming and intimidating legal system. With the help of an attorney, all charges could be anticipated in advance and defenses could be raised at the earliest possible time.
