Bucks County Rape Penalties

A rape conviction in of itself can carry severe consequences. Even at the lowest available levels, a conviction can lead to significant amounts of time involving incarceration, with long periods of probation to follow. Additionally, Megan’s law requirements come into play, as well as sexual violent predator statutes and specific probation supervised by the sexually violent predator unit of the probation office.

Often, lifetime reporting might even come into play in Pennsylvania. All of these consequences can affect the person long after they are done serving their sentence or probationary period.

Therefore, it is essential to do everything in the one’s power to defend themselves and mitigate the damage of the offense as much as possible. An experienced Bucks County rape lawyer can assist in advocating for those accused and can explore any plea deals or other options that may be available to those facing these serious charges.

Aggravating Factors

Possible aggravating factors to a rape charge include the courts reviewing the age of the plaintiff as well as their mental capacity, both at the time of the alleged incident and at present. In addition, the court examines any harm done to the plaintiff or any other participants involved.

Facts where hospital records come into play, medical treatment, long term psychological treatment or even physical treatment also play a vital role in the final assessment.

It is the goal of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to protect the victims especially once an accused has been found guilty.

Therefore, should an individual be found guilty of any charge such as rape felony in the first degree, he or she should expect multiple aggravating circumstances and sentences which far exceed the 5 to 10-year sentence for rape on its own.

How An Attorney Can Help

If a person is facing these charges and they turn to an experienced sexual assault criminal defense attorney, then a person can be assured of a number of things moving forward.

First, should circumstances lead to the conclusion that an acquittal is not a viable option, an experienced attorney can nevertheless direct the client in a manner that leads to a proper resolution of the case that mitigates, minimizes the amount of incarceration or consequences a person faces.

Additionally, should an investigation need to take place, the right individuals will be interviewed at the proper time, physical evidence will be preserved and any sort of scientific evidence will be placed in the right hands to ensure immediate work so that any sort of rebutting of the Commonwealth’s case can be put forward at the earliest possible time.

Rape cases often involve multiple DNA issues, multiple motions for prior illegal acts, and prior records as well as motions involving sexually protected backgrounds of a complaining witness.

However, under certain circumstances, a plaintiff’s past can come into play if relevant to the defense, which is put forward by the defense counsel. Having an experienced attorney  will provide an individual the opportunity to research, review and put forward a strong defense for the best chance at an acquittal or other means of regaining control over their future.