Weston Rape Lawyer
When allegations of sexual misconduct arise, it is important to retain legal counsel as early as possible. Even if no charges have been filed, a Weston rape lawyer can investigate and explore all available opportunities for defense.
How Does CT Law Classify Rape?
The offense commonly known in Weston as “rape” is termed sexual assault under Connecticut law and the applicable statutes begin with Connecticut General Statutes (CGS) §53a-70. A Weston rape attorney could prepare a defense strategy for someone accused of all rape offenses including:
- First-degree sexual assault
- Aggravated first-degree sexual assault
- Sexual assault in a spousal or cohabiting relationship
- Aggravated sexual assault of a minor
- Second-degree sexual assault
- Third-degree sexual assault
- Third-degree sexual assault with a firearm
What is First- versus Second-Degree Sexual Assault?
First-degree sexual assault often involves situations in which one individual compels another to have sex using force or the threat of force. Additionally, if an individual engages in sexual intercourse with a partner who is under age 13 or mentally incapacitated, then the individual may also be charged with sexual assault in the first degree under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-70.
Second-degree sexual assault, under C.G.S. §53a-71, often involves what’s commonly known as “statutory rape.” In many of these situations, sexual intercourse occurs between partners where one partner is legally unable to give consent because of age, disability, or legal standing.
What are the Penalties for Rape in Weston, Connecticut?
The potential penalties in rape cases are determined by the specific crime charged, but all sexual assault crimes are felonies. Aggravating factors such as the use of a weapon or the infliction of serious injuries can increase the severity of the crime and the penalties that may be imposed.
The specifics of maximum prison, fine, and probation exposure depend on the facts of your case and the specific class of crime charged, but all penalties are serious. A Weston rape lawyer may be able to introduce mitigating circumstances to reduce the penalties in a case.
Further, when it comes to sexual assault, the social stigma and collateral consequences can be just as bad as the judicial sentence. A felony record can make it hard to obtain work, lending, and housing and this is aggravated even more if you are a registered sex offender.
Work with a Knowledgeable Weston Rape Attorney
Experienced defense attorneys know numerous strategies that may be employed to fight the charges in a rape case. For the best chance of success, however, it is advisable to begin collecting evidence right away. As time passes, witnesses become harder to locate and their memory fades. Surveillance footage may be recorded over, and the scene of an alleged crime will change.
A Weston rape lawyer could quickly begin building a factual record to refute claims made by the prosecution. It may also be possible to suppress evidence on procedural grounds. Call Mark Sherman Law to learn more about your options for defense.