Rape is defined as a non-consensual sexual activity that occurs between the perpetrator and the victim.  The consequences of a rape accusation are far-reaching and may last long after the sentence is completed. Anyone who has been charged with rape should immediately contact a Georgia rape attorney to discuss the pending charges.

What Constitutes a Rape Charge?

Rape can be characterized in several ways. For example, forcing sexual conduct on a person through violence or even the threat of violence is considered rape. Spousal rape may occur when one spouse uses threats or fear to have sexual intercourse against the will of the other. Because rape is also defined as a non-consensual act, a person who has sexual contact with a person who is intoxicated by alcohol or drugs or is unconscious may also be charged with this criminal act.

Date rape, or acquaintance rape, is another form of rape that occurs if one person forces sexual intercourse on another when they are together. This is a complex legal area, as there have been many instances of an accuser claiming rape when the sex was in fact consensual. Dealing with a date rape charge calls for a skilled attorney who is experienced with this type of case.

Statutory rape occurs when a person above the age of consent has sex with a minor. Even if the minor consented to sex, the relationship may still result in a statutory rape charge.

Penalties for a Rape Conviction

The penalties for rape are harsh and may include prison time, fines, and probation. Perhaps the most damaging part of a rape conviction is that the person convicted of rape must register as a sex offender. This list can be seen on Internet databases and will include the offender’s current address.

The social stigma of being labeled a rapist could affect your future. This crime will be listed on your criminal record, affecting your chances of employment, schooling, and even housing. If convicted of a felony offense, you may be unable to work in certain sectors, such as government or education.

Sexual Assault Attorney

Just being accused of sexual assault could negatively impact your life forever. In Georgia, sexual assault is considered to be a serious crime, and the penalties for being convicted may include incarceration in addition to lifelong registration as a sex offender. If you or a loved one has been accused of this crime, you should immediately contact a Georgia sexual assault attorney to defend you against the pending charges.

Sexual assault is any sexual activity, such as touching, penetration, and intercourse, which is nonconsensual in nature. A sexual assault charge may also be filed against a person who has sexual activity with a victim who was unable to give consent because of intoxication or mental disability or was unconscious at the time of the incident. If a person holding a position of authority over the victim, it could also lead to a sexual assault charge.

Sexual Assault Penalties

Both society and the government regard sexual assault as a horrible crime that merits severe penalties. The potential punishment for a sexual assault conviction could include prison time, probation, financial restitution to the victim, and mandatory counseling.

Perhaps the most damaging of these penalties is that the convicted must sometimes register as a sex offender. A convicted sex offender must register with local law enforcement each time he or she moves and must include information such as his or her address, employment information, and criminal history. This information is also available to the public on federal or state sex offender lists. The social stigma of being a registered sex offender could make obtaining gainful employment or housing difficult. In addition, failing to register as a sex offender could lead to serious criminal charges, resulting in harsh penalties.

Fighting a Sexual Assault Charge

If you have been charged with sexual assault, you need an aggressive advocate on your side. Don’t wait to hire a Georgia sexual assault attorney—soon after the charges are filed, the police will begin building a case against you. You need an attorney who can begin preparing your defense right away to mitigate the potential damage from a sexual assault accusation.

Not all accusations of sexual assault are truthful. If you have been the victim of a false accusation, an experienced attorney will uncover the facts in an effort to have the criminal charges against you dismissed.