Plano Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer
Unwanted sexual acts are usually considered as rape. However, they are also referred to as sexual assault or abuse and a number of activities can be included under the definitions. Having sexual acts with someone who has not yet reached the legal age of consent is considered as statutory rape. On the other hand, a forceful sexual activity between individuals who are known to each other in social engagements is referred to as date rape. No matter what the circumstances are, there are severe consequences if you are convicted of a sex crime. The police and prosecution have their eye on sex crimes so if you or a member of your family is arrested or accused of a sex offense in Plano or Collin County; you need to talk with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
If you need to discuss the circumstances of your sex offense case with a skilled and experienced criminal defense lawyer, we invite you to contact us at The Goolsby Law Firm right away.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is usually defined as forcible rape. However, it is only a kind of such assault. In most states, sexual assaults also include all kinds of unwanted physical contact with a sex organ or sexually suggestive and aggressive statements and can happen between people of the same gender. The harm that was done and the force used can determine what will be charged to you and the punishments that will be given if you are convicted. Under the law of many states, the penalties for rape are very harsh, and can include imprisonment, psychiatric treatment, payment of restitution and substantial fines. You can also be registered as a sex offender.
Date Rape
Date rape is usually considered as the forceful sexual contact in a voluntary social engagement, where the person does not have the intention to engage in sexual acts and resists. That it was a voluntary engagement and the parties are acquainted with each other cannot be used as a defense. So is a sexual contact the happened between the two parties previously. It is not important that the victim did not object physically or reject the advance to show lack of consent. Although the law between states varies, a victim who is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol will usually be incapable of providing legal consent. In addition, the use of drugs has also become more frequent in date rape cases. Some of the most commonly used substances are GHB or gamma-hydroxybutyrate, ketamine and “roofies” or rohypnol. The use of drugs prevents a person from giving consent or results to loss of consciousness or even death. Date rape can be the most common kind or rape but it is also most unreported kind of sexual assault.
Statutory Rape
The ages of the parties are the basis of statutory rape. Even if there was consent, people who have not reached the age of consent yet cannot assent legally. Thus, it is considered under the law as if there was no given consent. The age of consent is from fourteen to eighteen but the most common age is sixteen.
If you or a loved one has been accused of a sex offense in the Plano area, contact us at The Goolsby Law Firm immediately. Call us today for a free initial consultation for your case.
