MIAMI RAPE DEFENSE ATTORNEY

RAPE & SEXUAL BATTERY CHARGES

Rape means a person was forced to submit to or engage in a non-consensual sexual act by the use of force or threat or the victim was unable to consent because of unconsciousness, disability or other reason. A person accused of the crime of rape is generally charged with sexual battery. Depending upon the circumstances the accused may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. Rape cases very often draw a great deal of media attention which puts more pressure on the prosecutor to get a conviction in the case. Anyone accused of rape should not try to handle their own defense, but rather contact a skilled Miami criminal defense lawyer from this firm.

According to Florida Statutes §§794.005-794.09 (2011), the penalties for the rape or attempted rape of a person over 18, younger than 18, and less than 12 years of age differ greatly in severity. The possible consequences of being convicted of a sex crime include prison sentence, probation, counseling, court ordered rehabilitation, and registration as a sex offender. Conviction on a charge of sexual battery against a victim less than 12 years of age can result in a life sentence. Not all accusations of rape are based on fact. The alleged victim may have forgotten the act was consensual because of intoxication, or the accusation might be based on morning after remorse.

ACCUSED OF RAPE? CALL THE Tomas law firm!

Children are sometimes motivated to make such an accusation in an effort to punish an older person, or to please a parent. Early involvement in such a case gives a skilled sex crime defense lawyer more opportunity to look into the allegations and examine the alleged victim's possible motivation. Early intervention by your legal counsel before any charges are filed may truly change the course of your future for the better.