Temple Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer
What Is Statutory Rape?
Rape is a serious criminal charge that requires immediate legal attention. If you have been accused of statutory rape, you need a Temple statutory rape lawyer as soon as possible. Mr. White has been practicing law for more than 20 years and has a track record of success, including successfully defending clients against rape and sexual assault charges.
In Texas, sexual assault includes a variety of charges, one of which is statutory rape. This is when an individual has sexual intercourse with a minor, who is legally unable to consent to the act. The charge of statutory rape is based on the age of the parties involved, and the age difference between the two parties. An individual can be charged with statutory rape even if the sexual act was consensual.
Under Texas law, statutory rape is defined as:
- An individual commits an offense if he or she is 17 years of age or older and engages in sexual intercourse with a person younger than 14 years of age; or
- An individual commits an offense if he or she is 18 years of age or older and engages in sexual intercourse with a person younger than 17 years of age.
In either case, the individual may be charged with a second degree felony. The penalties for a conviction of statutory rape can include fines of up to $10,000, up to 20 years in prison, or both.
What Is the Age of Consent in Texas?
In Texas, the age of consent is 17 years old. This means that an individual who is 17 years old or older can legally consent to sexual intercourse with an individual who is 18 years old or older. However, an individual who is younger than 17 years old cannot legally consent to sexual intercourse with an individual who is 18 years old or older. In this case, the individual may be charged with statutory rape.
It is important to note that an individual who is 17 years old can legally consent to sexual intercourse with an individual who is 14 years old or younger. However, the individual may be charged with statutory rape if the younger party is under the age of 14.
Is There a Defense Against Statutory Rape Charges?
Yes. One of the best defenses against statutory rape charges is to show that the accuser and the defendant were close in age. For example, if you are 20 years old and the accuser is 19 years old, you may have a strong defense against the charges. Additionally, if you were engaged in a long-term relationship with the accuser, this may be used as a defense.
Additionally, there may be other defenses that apply to your case. Mr. White will conduct an in-depth investigation into your charges to determine if there is a defense that may apply to your case.
Schedule Your Consultation with a Temple Statutory Rape Lawyer
If you have been charged with statutory rape, you need to contact a Temple statutory rape attorney as soon as possible. Mr. White has been practicing law for more than 20 years and has a track record of success, including successfully defending clients against rape and sexual assault charges.
Mr. White will work with you to build a strong defense against your charges. He will conduct an in-depth investigation into the accuser's background, including their relationship with you and any past criminal history. Additionally, Mr. White will conduct an investigation into the facts of your case, including any possible evidence that may be against you. After reviewing all of the details of your case, Mr. White will discuss possible defenses with you and develop a strategy to help you avoid conviction.
Do not take any chances. Discuss your case with our Temple, TX statutory rape defense attorney today by dialing (254) 206-3500 or by contacting us online.
