The most severe sex crime allegations a person can face are sexual assault or rape. Most examples of these cases are felonies under state law. Being accused of these offenses could severely impact a person’s personal and professional life.

If you are accused of sexual assault, it is vital that you obtain legal representation to protect you in court and shield you from public scrutiny. An East Windsor sexual assault lawyer at Ruane Attorneys could explain the law, evaluate the prosecution’s evidence, and defend your reputation and freedom in court.

How does State Law Define Sexual Assault?

The terms sexual assault and rape are interchangeable under state law. In general, this offense involves having sexual intercourse with another person against their will. If the act occurs through the use or threat of force, prosecutors can pursue charges under the state’s sexual assault laws.

These laws come in many forms. The most serious is sexual assault in the first degree under Connecticut General Statute § 53a-70. This felony charge applies when a defendant allegedly has sex with another person through the use or threat of force. In most examples, this is a class B felony that comes with a mandatory minimum two-year prison sentence with a maximum of 40.

However, not every allegation of sexual assault in East Windsor is a felony. For instance, Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-73aoutlines the offense of sexual assault in the fourth degree. Under this statute, it is usually a class A misdemeanor to have sexual contact not involving intercourse with another who cannot consent due to physical helplessness. These charges can also apply when the supposed victim is under the care of the defendant. An East Windsor attorney could investigate an arrest and begin building a defense against the specific sexual assault charges.

Defenses for Sexual Assault Charges in East Windsor

Every stage of a sexual assault case is critical. From the interview with an alleged victim to the arrest of a suspect, the police are building a case. A sexual assault lawyer has the right to be present during each of a defendant’s encounters with police. It is best to involve a local attorney as early as possible in a sexual assault case.

The nature of the prosecution’s evidence in the case, as well as a defendant’s version of events, will determine the best possible strategy for bringing the case to trial. Key concepts to remember in sexual assault cases include:

• Whether the alleged victim consented to the sexual contact
• The presence of other people or weapons at the scene
• Text messages or emails that may talk about a planned meeting

Using this evidence, an East Windsor lawyer could help create an alternative version of events to contest the prosecution’s rape case. They could also challenge the legality of police methods used to obtain information.

Reach Out to an East Windsor Sexual Assault Attorney Now

Allegations that you have had sexual contact with another without their consent are serious matters under state law. At a minimum, a conviction is a misdemeanor that is likely to end with jail time. The most serious examples are felonies that can bring a life sentence in prison.

It is crucially important that you begin fighting back as soon as possible by hiring an East Windsor sexual assault lawyer to handle your case. Ruane Attorneys are prepared to explore the evidence, explain the law, protect your rights, and present a defense in court on your behalf. Call our office today to schedule your consultation.