Alexandria Rape Lawyer
A rape charge is a very serious and criminal offense, and therefore dealing with a charge such as this on your own could be very stressful and troubling. By speaking with an Alexandria rape lawyer, you could learn more about the consequences of a rape charge and the appropriate way to defend your rights and reputation throughout a trial.
An adept sex crimes attorney could help build your defense and get a satisfactory potential outcome.
What Constitutes Rape?
Rape is defined as involuntary sexual intercourse and can encompass several different components. These help to distinguish the difference between rape charges and other common sex crimes. The components are as follows:
- If intercourse occurs either against the complaining witness’ will by force, threat or intimidation
- The complaining witness’ mental incapacity or physical helplessness
- Intercourse with a child under the age of 13
If one of these three components are involved in the offense, then it may be considered as a rape charge and brought to trial as such.
Rape Offenses vs. Other Common Sex Crimes
Rape cases are different from other sex crime cases because it generally has the most severe sex crime penalties. The high stakes and the high level of emotion surrounding a rape charge can be what makes them different from other sex crime cases. If a person is convicted of rape, they could be sentenced to a term of incarceration in the state prison ranging between five years and life.
Impact of Aggravating Factors on Rape Charges
Aggravating factors can change the possible sentencing time of a defendant. For example, an aggravating factor could potentially turn a person’s sentencing time from anywhere ranging from five years and life to a mandatory minimum of 25 years. Another example is when an adult has sex with a child who is under the age of 13, which would lead to a mandatory life sentence.
What to Look for in an Alexandria Rape Lawyer
A person accused of rape would want somebody that specifically handles rape and high-level sexual assault cases because these cases are often quite unique and different from other felony cases. The person would need somebody that deals specifically with sex crimes and knows what to look for and the pitfalls that can surround defending a rape case.
An Alexandria rape lawyer could adequately assist the defendant in learning about the charges they face and the appropriate steps in one’s case. The first thing an experienced lawyer can do is collect all of the facts, both from the government and from the defendant.
Defining Important Information to Share with a Virginia Attorney
A lawyer needs to know all the evidence out there in order to have a fair shot to refute that evidence. Lawyers look at every element of the charge to determine whether or not the government can prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.
A criminal defense lawyer could discuss with you the possible outcomes available for your case. It may be critical to work with both them and the government to create a favorable outcome. Contact a skilled Alexandria rape lawyer as soon as possible to start working on defending your future. Call and schedule an appointment today.
