UConn Rape Lawyer

You have a legal right to a fair and evidence-based trial after being accused of rape, as well as the right to seek representation from a qualified sex crimes defense attorney. Once retained, a UConn rape lawyer could prepare you for legal proceedings, help you construct the strongest defense strategy possible, and tirelessly advocate for your interests every step of the way.

How Does State Law Define Rape as a Criminal Offense?

Alleged acts of rape are generally prosecuted as sexual assault in the first degree under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-70 or, in specific circumstances, sexual assault in the second degree under C.G.S. §53a-71. The former applies to situations in which someone allegedly forces another person to have sexual intercourse with them by using physical force or intimidation, while the latter entails sexual intercourse with someone who cannot consent to sex. This may involve forcing sex on a minor or someone who is cognitively disabled and/or physically helpless. Rape allegations can also involve intercourse between a school employee in a position of power and a student.

Both degrees of sexual assault are classified as felony offenses. First-degree sexual assault is generally a class B felony for which a conviction may lead to one to 20 years of imprisonment plus $15,000 in fines. Second-degree sexual assault is a class C felony that could mean one to ten years in prison and a $10,000 fine upon conviction.

Additionally, anyone who commits rape with any of the following aggravated conditions present may be charged with aggravated first-degree sexual assault under C.G.S. §53a-70a, which allows for a mandatory minimum prison sentence of ten years:

• The defendant was armed with or brandishing a deadly weapon;
• The defendant intentionally caused permanent disability or disfigurement to the person they allegedly assaulted;
• The defendant engaged in behavior indicating extreme indifference to human life that put the person they allegedly assaulted at risk of fatal injury; or
• The defendant had help from two or more other people.

Regardless of whether you have any criminal history or lack thereof, a single conviction for rape could permanently alter your life and leave you facing substantial criminal and personal repercussions. Representation from a UConn attorney could be crucial to effectively contesting rape charges pursued under any of these statutes.

What Constitutes Statutory Rape at UConn?

Any time a person over the age of 18 engages in sexual contact or intercourse with a person under 16, they have committed statutory rape against that minor. The severity of sanctions that may come from being convicted of statutory rape depends on the degree of sexual assault that the defendant’s actions fall under, as well as the age of the minor involved. Generally, sexual intercourse with a minor is prosecuted more severely than sexual contact with a minor, and the harshest penalties are reserved for sexual intercourse with someone under 13. As a knowledgeable lawyer could explain, any instance of rape that occurs at UConn may be prosecuted one level of severity higher if it involves a minor.

Talk to a UConn Rape Attorney About Legal Options

Rape allegations always make for emotionally and procedurally complicated cases, especially if they involve individuals who are not yet 18. Without a dedicated legal representative from Mark Sherman Law by your side, you may have very slim chances of receiving an outcome with your freedom and future prospects intact. A capable UConn rape defense lawyer could be your legal advocate throughout your case. Call today for more information, and click here to read our over 300 certified client reviews on Avvo.com.