Chesterton Rape Defense Lawyer
Former Prosecutor Fights for Your Rights in Criminal Rape Cases
Rape is a very serious criminal offense that carries a wide range of penalties. In Indiana, the severity of the sentence will depend on the specific circumstances of the case. If you have been accused of rape, it is critical to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A conviction for this offense can have a devastating impact on your life, including loss of your freedom and the possibility of being subjected to a sex offender registration requirement.
At the Law Office of Adam Tavitas, our Chesterton rape defense lawyer has extensive experience successfully defending clients against serious charges. As a former prosecutor, he is well-versed in the strategies that prosecutors use in an attempt to secure a conviction. He knows the weaknesses of the state's case against you and can use that knowledge to help you achieve the best possible result in your case.
Schedule a consultation with our attorney by calling (219) 245-2655 or submitting a contact form.
What Is Rape in Indiana?
Rape is a very serious criminal offense that carries a wide range of penalties. In Indiana, the severity of the sentence will depend on the specific circumstances of the case. If you have been accused of rape, it is critical to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A conviction for this offense can have a devastating impact on your life, including loss of your freedom and the possibility of being subjected to a sex offender registration requirement.
In Indiana, rape is defined as nonconsensual sexual intercourse with a person. In order for a person to be convicted of rape, the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the alleged victim did not consent to the sexual activity. In some cases, the alleged victim may have been unconscious or otherwise unable to give consent. In other cases, the alleged victim may have verbally or physically expressed a lack of consent. However, a person's lack of consent may not be expressed in the form of a verbal "no."
In any case, if you are facing a rape charge, it is vital that you speak with an experienced attorney who can help you protect your rights and freedom. Our Chesterton rape defense attorney is a former prosecutor who is well-versed in the strategies that prosecutors use in an attempt to secure a conviction. He knows the weaknesses of the state's case against you and can use that knowledge to help you achieve the best possible result in your case.
Penalties for Rape in Indiana
The penalties for a conviction of rape will depend on the circumstances of the case. In general, rape is a Level 3 felony. However, there are some aggravating circumstances that can increase the severity of the penalties. For example, if a deadly weapon was used in the commission of the rape, the offense may be elevated to a Level 2 felony. If a deadly weapon was not used, but the victim was seriously injured, the offense may be elevated to a Level 1 felony.
The following are the possible penalties for a conviction of rape in Indiana:
- First-degree rape: A Level 3 felony punishable by three years of incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Second-degree rape: A Level 5 felony punishable by five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Third-degree rape: A Level 6 felony punishable by six years of incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000.
In addition to incarceration and fines, a person convicted of rape may be placed on a sex offender registry. A conviction for rape will require a person to register as a sex offender for 10 years. A person may also be required to register for life if the victim was a child under the age of 14 or if the person has two prior convictions for rape.
What Is Statutory Rape in Indiana?
In Indiana, it is illegal for an adult to have sexual intercourse with a minor. This offense is known as statutory rape. The severity of the penalties for this offense will depend on the age of the victim and the age of the defendant. For example, if a 19-year-old man has sexual intercourse with a 17-year-old girl, this is not considered statutory rape. However, if a 19-year-old man has sexual intercourse with a 13-year-old girl, this is a serious criminal offense.
The following are the possible penalties for a conviction of statutory rape in Indiana:
- Sexual intercourse with a minor who is 13 to 16 years old: A Level 5 felony punishable by five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Sexual intercourse with a minor who is under 13 years old: A Level 1 felony punishable by 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000.
In addition to incarceration and fines, a person convicted of statutory rape may be placed on a sex offender registry. A conviction for statutory rape requires a person to register their personal details, including current address and place of employment, with this registry. They might also be subject to restrictions such as residency requirements or exclusion zones.
Speak with an Attorney to Fight For Your Future
Stand strong in protecting your future by contacting an experienced former prosecutor to represent you. As your Chesterton rape defense attorney,let us examine all aspects of your constitutional rights and the circumstances of your case to fight for you.
Facing a rape charge? Contact us at (219) 245-2655for a free consultation.