Rape Defense

Rape Defense in Fresno

California Rape Law Covers a Variety of Sexual Assaults

Sex crimes in general not only carry serious penalties, but also have the potential to affect your reputation for the rest of your life. This includes rape charges. And while the “movie definition” of rape may be rape committed by physical force, the truth is that there are many situations that meet the legal definition of rape.
This is because in the state of California, rape is defined as nonconsensual sexual intercourse. While force is one way in which rape can occur, nonconsensual sexual intercourse that is accomplished through threats or fraud are also considered rape. California rape law covers a variety of sexual assaults, including:

• Date rape
• Spousal rape
• Statutory rape
• Oral copulation by force
• Forcible penetration with a foreign object

Conviction can lead to a prison sentence, probation, fines, a “strike” against your record, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. With consequences like these, it is important that you retain the services of a sex crimes defense attorney as soon as you have been accused of rape or any sexual assault.

We Will Work to Have Charges Reduced or Dismissed

While society and the prosecution tend to err on the side of the victim, the truth is that not all rape charges are made for the right reasons. Sometimes the accuser/alleged victim makes up accusations for a variety of reasons. Other times, the alleged victim accuses the wrong person as the result of mistaken identity. Or perhaps you honestly believed that consent was given.

There are a variety of factors that an experienced sex crimes defense attorney will take into account when constructing your defense. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome on behalf of our clients. If the evidence against you is not sufficient for a charge or if our investigation reveals that the physical contact did not meet the legal standard for rape, we will incorporate that into your defense strategy.

If your case ends up going to trial, we will defend you vigorously. But whenever possible, we will work to have charges reduced or dismissed. Sometimes, it is even possible to resolve rape allegations before formal charges are ever filed. However, that requires that you seek out experienced reputation as soon as you are charged with rape or a rape-related crime.

Contact an Experienced Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Especially if you have been wrongly accused, it is easy to become paralyzed with fear if you have been charged with rape. Don’t allow yourself to become wrapped up in the worst-case scenario or obsess about the consequences rather than taking action to defend yourself. Contact an experienced sex crimes defense attorney as soon as you have been charged with rape. We understand the penalties you are facing and the anxiety you may be experiencing. If you have been charged with rape in Fresno or anywhere in the San Joaquin Valley, contact us today for your free consultation.