Sex crimes like rape are considered criminal offenses with severe implications such as a public listing on the sex offender registry and a lengthy prison sentence—sometimes life in prison. Complex criminal cases benefit from the knowledge and experience of a sex crimes defense attorney to help eliminate or reduce criminal penalties. Rape is any form of unwanted or non-consensual sexual conduct through force, intimidation, threats, or coercion. Rape is different from sexual battery as it includes penetration. A person can be charged with rape if they engage in sexual behavior with a person outside of marriage or force an ex-spouse that does not live in the home any longer to have unwanted sex. If you have been charged with rape, contact our law firm for immediate assistance.

What is Considered Sexual Battery?

Like rape, sexual battery is an intentional act meant to harm another person physically and mentally. Sexual battery is considered any non-consensual or unwanted touching of intimate body parts. Examples of sexual battery might include a forced kiss, groping, or touching another person’s genital areas. A male or female can be a victim of sexual battery. If a person uses violent force in addition to groping, touching, kissing, fraud, or impacts a vulnerable victim such as a child, serious felony charges will apply. Read More: Common weapons used in homicides

What are the Penalties for Rape and Sexual Battery?

Rape is a motivated sex crime and includes sexual conduct, including genital, oral, anal sex, or penetration with an object or body part or a minor child younger than 13. In Ohio, the mandatory sentence for any form of rape is three to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. A person will also be listed publicly on the Sex Offender Registry if convicted. There are different degrees of sexual battery. Sexual battery is typically charged as a third-degree felony with a prison sentence of one to five years and a mandatory listing on the Ohio Sex Offender Registry. Read More: Insights into vehicular homicide defense

How Can an Attorney Help Me?

Rape and sexual battery are serious criminal offenses with harsh penalties. Prosecutors have all the time, money, and resources to try criminal cases like this and prove guilt, so it’s wise to solicit the legal counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Criminal cases are complex and sometimes challenging to prove as victims aren’t always truthful in their allegations. We build a defense and identify strategies to determine if the victim was lying, you were mistaken for another person, or you have an alibi. We are experienced in tough criminal cases and will defend your rights. Contact our law firm by email or speak with one of our attorneys at 513-548-5544 for legal guidance and support.