Even if you have no other criminal convictions or arrests on your record, a single allegation of sexual assault could permanently alter the course of your life. You need to be proactive about building a defense against these accusations, but you also must be careful and strategic throughout the legal process.

Support from a New Haven sexual assault lawyer is crucial in both regards, no matter your circumstances or what specific charges you face. From initial investigations to pre-trial negotiations to proceedings in criminal court, Ruane Attorneys could be your steadfast allies in preserving your rights and best interests.

Degrees of Sexual Assault Under State Law

The Connecticut Penal Code defines four “degrees” of sexual assault charges based primarily on two factors: whether the defendant engaged in unlawful sexual contact or unlawful sexual intercourse with someone else and whether the defendant used or threatened force to compel participation in a sexual act. Broadly speaking, sexual assault involving intercourse is prosecuted more harshly than sexual assault involving only contact. Sexual encounters compelled by force are prosecuted more harshly than those involving one party being materially unable to consent—for example, a psychotherapist and a client, or a teacher and a student.

Depending on the degree of the charges, sexual assault against another adult can be classified as anything from a class A misdemeanor to a class B felony. Applicable sanctions could range from one year in jail and a $2,000 fine to 20 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. Sexual assault against someone under 16 is automatically enhanced by one level of severity—for instance, fourth-degree sexual assault under Connecticut General Statutes §53a-73a would change from a class A misdemeanor to a class D felony.

Certain aggravating factors may further enhance the severity of a sexual assault offense, potentially upgrading it to a class A felony punishable by multiple decades of prison time. A New Haven sexual assault attorney could explain the implications of a particular charge in more detail during an initial consultation.

Contesting Sexual Assault Allegations in New Haven

Sexual assault allegations can be challenging to defend because these criminal cases are often built around subjective evidence. There may be little objective proof of the circumstances of an alleged assault. This means that law enforcement authorities—and members of a jury—will mostly depend on evidence like:

• Witness testimonies
• Recorded interviews with all involved parties
• Subpoenaed phone and message logs

When facing these accusations, it is vital to avoid making unforced errors that could impact how an investigator, judge, or jury member interprets events. Trying to talk things out with the person who reported the incident or offering too much—or poorly phrased—information to law enforcement can hurt a defendant’s case. Representation from a sexual assault lawyer in New Haven can be vital to building a strong defense and avoiding costly mistakes.

Talk to a New Haven Sexual Assault Attorney About Legal Options

Sexual assault allegations are taken seriously in Connecticut and can have devastating repercussions on every aspect of your life. You should not try to defend yourself against this sort of accusation without guidance from an attorney.

At Ruane Attorneys, we know how these cases work and could work to construct a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. Let a New Haven sexual assault lawyer offer the guidance and support you need. Call today to learn more.