Stamford Rape Lawyer
If you face rape allegations in Connecticut, an aggressive sex crimes attorney can provide irreplaceable legal support and tirelessly advocate on your behalf. Working with a Stamford rape lawyer will be crucial to pursuing a favorable resolution to your uniquely sensitive case.
What Constitutes “Rape” as a Criminal Charge?
The term “rape” is defined under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-70 as Sexual Assault in the First Degree. This crime occurs when someone coerces another individual to engage in sexual intercourse with them by using or threatening physical violence. Anyone who has sexual intercourse with another party unable to consent to sex may face Second-Degree Sexual Assault charges. This concept is typically referred to as “statutory rape.” Likewise, a person who uses force to compel non-consensual sexual contact could be charged with Sexual Assault in the Third Degree.
The sexual assault of someone 16 years old or older is considered Sexual Assault in the First Degree, a Class B felony in Connecticut. Possible sentences upon conviction for this offense include a mandatory minimum prison term of two years (which cannot be reduced or suspended) and a maximum 20-year sentence. In addition, an alleged defendant charged with this crime may face up to $15,000 in maximum financial penalties.
If someone commits Sexual Assault in the First Degree against someone under 16, their offense becomes a Class A felony punishable by a maximum term of 25 years of imprisonment. However, as a skilled attorney in Stamford could further explain, the mandatory minimum sentence for this type of offense is five years unless the alleged target is under ten years old, in which the mandatory minimum prison term is ten years.
What Aggravating Factors Can Contribute to Stamford Sexual Assault Offenses?
Any combination of aggravating factors during an act of First-Degree Sexual Assault may allow for even harsher criminal sanctions upon conviction. According to C.G.S. §53a-70a, these factors could include:
- Intentionally causing permanent disability or disfigurement;
- Two or more people being physically present and contributing to the assault;
- Using, threatening to use, or provoking reasonable fear of the use of a deadly weapon; and/or
- Causing serious bodily injury through reckless or extreme indifference to human life,
Depending on the alleged target’s age, this offense may be a Class B or Class A felony, with longer mandatory minimum sentences at every level compared to non-aggravated First-Degree Sexual Assault. Furthermore, courts may impose harsher penalties following a conviction for the aggravated sexual assault of a minor as defined under C.G.S. §53a-70c. Nevertheless, a diligent and hardworking lawyer in Stamford can investigate the circumstances of a case and build a strong defense on an alleged defendant’s behalf.
Talk with a Stamford Rape Attorney Today
Being accused of sexually assaulting another person is one of the most severe criminal allegations you could face in Connecticut. However, it is crucial to remember that the actions you take to defend yourself now could significantly impact your rights in the long run. Therefore, seeking professional legal support immediately following such charges could be essential to enforcing your rights and mitigating the impact this situation has on your personal and professional life.
A Stamford rape lawyer at Mark Sherman Law can discuss defense strategies and options in detail with you during a confidential consultation. Find out why we have a five-star rating on Avvo today by calling our office and scheduling your initial consultation.