Westport Statutory Rape Lawyer
In general use, statutory rape refers to someone over the age of 18 engaging in sexual contact or intercourse with someone under the age of 18. A minor cannot consent to sex because they are legally a child. However, the Connecticut penal code does not define statutory rape as a distinct criminal offense. Instead, it considers the age(s) of the individuals as a contributing factor in the classification and prosecution of a Sexual Assault charge.
Because of this, the strategy for responding to a statutory rape allegation depends on the circumstances that led to the accusation. An experienced defense attorney can identify the strongest legal options for your case. If someone has accused you of engaging in sexual activity with a minor, you should contact a Westport statutory rape lawyer from Mark Sherman Law.
How Does the Law Define Statutory Rape?
The Connecticut penal code categorizes four degrees of Sexual Assault offenses. These degrees depend on whether the prosecution alleges that you used or threatened force to compel sexual activity and whether it entailed sexual contact or sexual intercourse. Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree and Sexual Assault in the Second Degree address unlawful sexual contact and unlawful sexual intercourse when a person cannot legally consent to sex due to age or power imbalance.
Most allegations of statutory rape result in one of those two charges. Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree is a Class A misdemeanor, and Sexual Assault in the Second Degree is a Class C felony. However, if the alleged victim is under age 16, the charges automatically increase by one degree of severity. In that case, Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree becomes a Class D felony, and Sexual Assault in the Second Degree becomes a Class B felony. Our Westport legal team can review the allegations of unlawful sexual activity against you and advise on your legal options.
Contesting Charges for Enticing a Minor
If the charges against you allege that you used an app, website, or social media platform to arrange to meet someone for sex who you knew—or reasonably believed—was under the age of 18 in Westport, they likely fall under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) § 53a-90av, which your attorney can explain in more detail. This is generally a Class D felony for first-time offenders, but second offenses are Class C. Third and later convictions carry penalties equal to a Class B felony.
If the alleged victim is under 13, the charge automatically becomes a Class B felony. This carries a mandatory minimum prison term of 5 years for a first-time conviction and 10 years for any subsequent conviction. The court cannot suspend or reduce this sentence under any circumstances if it finds you guilty.
Call a Westport Attorney for Advice After Unlawful Sex Charges
An accusation of statutory rape is serious, but we can help you build your defense and guide you through the process of defending your legal rights. Working with a Westport statutory rape lawyer could significantly improve your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Call Mark Sherman Law today to learn more, or visit our Avvo.com profile and read verified reviews from past clients.