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Pasadena Rape Defense Attorney

Understanding Rape: Definition and Implications

Rape is the action of forcing, coercing or threatening another person to engage in sexual activity against his or her will. Rape is considered by law enforcement officers and prosecutors to be one of the most serious and notorious sex crimes, and those accused of rape will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law in California. A conviction can result in severe and life-changing penalties in addition to a social stigma that could follow you for the rest of your life.

Different Types of Rape Charges Explained

Rape is commonly considered to be an act committed by a stranger, but there are other forms of rape that happen on a daily basis throughout our country, including

  • Date Rape: sexual activity that is non-consensual and takes place between two people who already know each other, typically at social events.
  • Spousal Rape: non-consensual sexual activity between spouses where one spouse uses force, threats, violence or coercion to make their spouse have sex.
  • Statutory Rape: sexual activity that is non-consensual and is committed with a person under the legal age of consent, which is typically 18 years old.

You can face prosecution for rape under a variety of circumstances, but the underlying offense is that it is an act of nonconsensual sexual intercourse. Minors are legally incapable of giving consent, so you may have been charged with statutory rape for having sexual relations with someone under the age of 18. More commonly, rape involves the use of force or threats of physical violence, and it is a felony sex crime that can send you to prison for up to 8 years.

Consequences of Rape Conviction in California

In addition to a term of imprisonment, a rape conviction will also have serious social consequences for you. You will have to register as a sex offender on the California Megan's Law website. Your neighbors will have easy access to your photograph, physical description and detailed information about your crime. If you act now by getting the help of a Pasadena criminal defense attorney you might be able to have the charge reduced to a less serious crime. Depending on the circumstances and the evidence against you, you could get the charges dropped altogether. Many rape allegations are false, and you could be able to find a way to avoid conviction through DNA testing, arguing that the act was consensual, or demonstrating that there is a lack of evidence against you.

We will explore every aspect of the charges to find the best way to defend your rights. Contact us today!

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The Law Offices of Matthew Cargal's Resources

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