TOLEDO SEXUAL ASSAULT DEFENSE LAWYER

TYPES OF SEXUAL ASSAULT

Sexual assault is a broad term that refers to a variety of offenses involving nonconsensual sexual acts, including touching, intercourse, harassment, psychological manipulation, and exhibition. The key to determining whether an action is a sex crime or not is whether both parties consented. If either party did not or could not give his or her consent, as is the case with minors and individuals who are under the influence of alcohol or another drug, the act may deemed to be assault.

Examples of sexual assault include:

• Rape;
• Unwanted touching;
• Stalking a sexual partner;
• The use or threat of sexual violence; and
• Sexual conduct with a minor.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN ACCUSED OF RAPE IN OHIO

Being accused of rape is stressful, overwhelming, and extremely frightening. At this time, defendants need to know the proper steps to take to protect their legal rights. The last thing you want to do is to make a mistake that will make it more difficult to defend your case. If you were accused of or charged with rape in Ohio or Michigan, you should be sure to do the following four things: 

• Do Not Contact the Accuser Directly: It can be tempting to want to talk to the accuser — especially if the rape accusations are blatantly false or you do not understand where the accusation is coming from. Although the impulse is understandable, it is crucial that you resist the temptation. Once a rape accusation has been made, the defendant should avoid calling, texting, emailing, or talking to the accuser in person. 

• Avoid Giving a Statement to Police: After an accusation, you may be arrested or brought in for questioning by a police officer or other law enforcement official. Do not agree to answer any questions without an attorney. You have a constitutional right to remain silent. Unless you have a Toledo, OH rape defense lawyer by your side, you should avoid speaking to the police or prosecutors. Your words can be misinterpreted or used against you.  

• Secure Any Relevant Exonerating Evidence: Depending on the specific nature of your case, you may have access to exonerating evidence. As an example, you could have text messages or social media messages that suggest that the accuser’s allegations are not legitimate. Alternatively, you may have alibi evidence that indicates that you could not have committed the sexual assault at the time that the accuser said that the offense occurred. Be sure to secure any evidence that might be relevant to your defense. Your attorney will be able to review the evidence and focus on what is important. 

Call a Toledo, OH Rape Defense Attorney: Rape charges are extremely serious. If convicted for rape in Ohio, a defendant faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. Never try to handle rape charges on your own. Do not try to talk your way out of trouble. If you or your loved one was arrested and charged with rape, it is essential that you call a top-rated Toledo rape defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney will be able to assess the accusations and help you take the proper steps to protect your rights, your freedom, your reputation, and your future.