Minneapolis & St. Paul Rape Defense Lawyer
Rape is a very serious sex crime because it involves forcibly engaging another person into sexual intercourse by force or coercion. This crime is violent and it can cause the crime to be categorized within certain classifications. In Minnesota, how the crime is classified is determined by the age of the victim, whether or not a weapon was used, and if the victim was injured.
If you have been accused of rape, you have rights and they need to be protected. There are also options available for you to choose from so that you can make confident decisions in your case. Your St. Paul criminal defense lawyer will work hard for you. Regardless of whether you are innocent or guilty, you do have constitutional rights that need to be defended.
Aggressive & Experienced Criminal Defense
Different types of rape exist. There is statutory rape, child rape, molestation, marital rape, pedophilia, ongoing sexual abuse, and date rape. Each act of rape comes with a specific set of penalties, depending on the elements that are present in the alleged offense. These elements are the same that determine the degree in which the crime is to be classified.
When charged, there are three degrees and one will be charged. Here are examples of factors that may result in a first-degree rape charge:
- The victim was younger than 13 years old and the defendant was more than three years older.
- The victim was between 13 and 15 years of age with the defendant being four years older.
- The victim is under 16 years old and the defendant has a significant relationship with them
- The victim was seriously injured
- Others were present during the commission of the crime
- A weapon was used
The factors that classify rape as a second or third-degree criminal sexual conduct charge are very similar to first-degree. The differences lie in the age requirements, plus third-degree factors in healthcare workers as those having a significant relationship with the victim.
Creative Defense Strategies That Work
The Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer that you will work with will form and utilize a creative strategy that is based on the facts in the case. The story will be challenged and questions will come about as the evidence is reviewed. Although evidence against you may be present, there may be evidence that works in your favor as well and that can cast reasonable doubt as to whether or not you committed the crime. Every possibility is examined so that you can have the best possible result.
Contact A St. Paul Criminal Defense Attorney
Rape is a very serious offense, which means it is a serious crime to be accused of. If you have been accused of rape, it is imperative that you have competent and experienced legal representation next to you throughout the entire process. The goal is to reach the best possible outcome in the case. That could be case dismissal, reduced charges, or acquittal. To learn about your options and your rights, call the Anderson Law Firm, PLLC at 952-582-2904 for a free consultation.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Please contact attorney Kirk Anderson for an initial consultation.