What is Rape?
Historically, rape laws recognized only those crimes against women. However,under modern statutes, rape is unlawful sexual intercourse without a person's consent. Usually an act of force or threat negates the victim's consent. Some states require that evidence of resistance be shown. Rape is a felony. Types of Rape - Statutory Rape: Statutory Rape is unlawful sexual intercourse with a person under the age of consent, regardless of whether it was consensual. The age of consent varies from 16 to 18 years of age depending upon the state.
- Date Rape: Date rape is unlawful sexual intercourse committed during a social engagement between the rapist and victim. Date rape can also occur where the victim has been drugged.
- Marital Rape: Marital Rape is a husband¿s sexual intercourse with his wife by force or without her consent. Historically, marital rape was not recognized. Marital rape is now considered a serious offense.
What Should You Do if You Were Raped?
Contact the authorities and get to a medical doctor immediately. Medical centers can preserve evidence that you were raped. If you suspect a date rape drug has been used, do the same. Traces of date rape drugs disappear quickly from the body. What Can You Do if You Have Been Accused of Rape?
Rape is a serious charge with many complexities. A skilled criminal defense lawyer familiar with your state criminallaws can explain your options and help formulate possible defenses. |
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