Statutory Rape Charges

Marietta Sex Crime Attorney

Statutory rape is committed when a person has sexual intercourse with any person under the age of 16. It does not matter if the individual consented to the act, since anyone under 18 is considered unable to give legal consent. As found in O.C.G.A. § 16-6-3, statutory rape is considered to be a felony offense and is punishable by 1-20 years in state prison; 10-20 if you are 21 or older.

The consequences of such a conviction can permanently ruin your prospects of a successful career, especially considering the fact that all individuals who are convicted of a sex crime must register as sex offenders for life.

Defenses against charges of statutory rape can include arguing that the defendant had no knowledge of, or reason to know, the age of the alleged victim. Charges of statutory rape can be fought if the defendant was unaware of the individual's age, or was deceived into believing the victims was at least 18 years old. A person can only be charged with statutory rape if he or she knew or had reason to know that the other person was underage.

It may also be the case that you never had intercourse with the person at all. The courts tend to favor the word of the alleged victim, but with an aggressive sex crime defense attorney by your side, you could present a strong argument and evidence to prove that you never had intercourse with the underage person.

If you have been arrested under charges of statutory rape, fight your charges today by hiring a Marietta criminal defense lawyer from the Merchant Law Firm! Our team has extensive experience in all areas of criminal defense and will strive to obtain the outcome you need and deserve.

Sex Offender Registration for Child Sex Offenders

Anyone who is convicted of a sex crime will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of their life. As a result, their conviction will be available for public view. It will be nearly impossible for them to succeed in a decent career or to find a nice place to live.

Sex offenders are restricted from living anywhere near a school, daycare, playground, or other area where children regularly gather or meet. Don't let this happen to you! Hire a criminal attorney today.

How a Marietta Sex Crime Lawyer Can Help

Sex crime charges are some of the worst criminal charges a person can possibly face. Make sure that your reputation and future are protected from permanent damage by retaining an aggressive member of our legal team. We have a 10.0 Superb Rating on Avvo and have been in practice for nearly 20 years.