Minnesota Statutory Rape Lawyer & Attorney
Statutory rape is a charge that is difficult to be charged with. The reason is because conviction can lead to prison, fines, and lifetime registration on the sex offender registry. In Minnesota, sexual relations with a person under the age of 16 is considered statutory rape. Even when a person over 16 may be dating someone under the age of 16, which is the age of consent, could be charged with statutory rape.
If you have been charged with statutory rape, it is important to secure legal counsel as soon as possible so work can begin on your case immediately. Your Minneapolis criminal defense attorney will immediately begin investigating so that the strongest possible defense can be built for you.
Revealing The Facts
There are times when statutory rape penalties do not have to be very serious, such as when a person under over the age of consent has sex with an underage individual who is close to their age. This is why there is an “age differential” addressed by Minnesota. The age differential is three years if the victim is under 13 years old and four years if the victim’s age is between 13 and 16. For example, a 20-year-old having sexual relations with a 15-year-old is going to be considered a crime because the age differential is more than four years.
Age differential laws also apply if both parties are under the age of consent and they engage in sexual activity with one another. Many states call these “Romeo and Juliet” laws. These laws exist to soften the consequences for teenagers who have consensual sex with one another. If both parties are underage or one is just over the age limit, the punishment is lessened and the offender may not be required to register as a sex offender as long as the sex was consensual.
Creating Effective Strategies In Your Case
Your Minnesota criminal defense attorney will create a strategic defense for you to lessen the consequences. If the sex was consensual, then that fact will be brought about. If the accusation was that it was not consensual, then your attorney will turn to witness statements, evidence, and other facts that can help you receive the best possible outcome. It is important to strive for as few penalties as possible so you can put the matter behind you as soon as possible.
Contact A Minneapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer
Statutory rape is a very serious sex offense and one that has very serious consequences. However, this is a very sensitive area such as in cases where teenagers are involved sexually. If you have been accused of statutory rape, you need to defend your rights with the help of a highly dedicated and skilled criminal defense attorney. To learn about how the Anderson Law Firm, PLLC can help you, call 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.