Bethesda Rape Lawyer

There are several specific aspects of rape in cases that are different from other sex-based crimes. In other sex offenses, intercourse is not involved; it is usually a touching, a finger or a hand, or an object. When it is intercourse that is forced, it is typically a much more serious invasion of someone’s well-being, person, and body, which makes it much more offensive and egregious. If a person is facing a rape charge, it is imperative that they seek an experienced sex crimes lawyer. There can be serious consequences and penalties for rape, and a person should consult a Bethesda rape lawyer right away.

Typical Rape Charges

Rape is intercourse either without the consent of an individual or by use of force, the threat of force, brandishing, or utilizing a dangerous, deadly weapon.

There is non-consensual rape where there is no force but one person is inebriated or incapacitated.

Even if it is consensual, by law, an individual underage cannot consent to sex, therefore, it is considered rape.

Second-degree rape is when the act occurred without the consent of the alleged victim through the power of force or threat of force. First degree is when there is a dangerous deadly weapon, like a gun or a knife, involved, severe bodily injury, or a violent assault, like death or strangulation, as opposed to more than just force that it takes to overcome somebody’s will.

Potential Penalties for a Conviction

Considering rape is one of the more serious types of offenses, if not the most serious, generally, there are hefty penalties associated with these charges.

Even a person who has no prior record or history will suffer significant incarceration upon a finding of guilt. It could be from a few years to even decades, depending on the level of the severity of the incident or how problematic the facts are. A Bethesda rape lawyer knows that if there is a record of history, the consequence can be life, and they can prepare the person for trial.

Aggravating Factors

Aggravating factors are a prior history and prior offenses on a person’s criminal record. The second-degree rape becomes the first-degree rape if there is a weapon involved. If the person drugged the individual, that is also problematic. If the victim is a minor, informed, or incapacitated because of their mental status, state, or physical status, those things tend to make a bad situation worse.

Benefits of an Experienced Attorney

A local attorney who has that experience will know the proper way of handling the matter, what defenses to raise, what works, and what does not work. They will have certain relationships with prosecutors and judges and can work towards the best possible outcome. A Bethesda rape lawyer can, from the very outset, try to help procure their release. They know what evidence to seek, obtain, and preserve, and who are the witnesses to speak to. They also know whether there are any mistakes and problems with the state’s case, the victim’s statements, the evidence, and the police investigation throughout the process of representing an individual in trial or trying to work out a fair and favorable resolution with the state.