Getting accused of rape can make you feel like your world is ending. Family members and friends may have serious doubts if you tell them that the allegation against you is false. You are also worried about what will happen if you are convicted. Let a Glendale rape defense lawyer help you. Your attorney understands your case and helps you determine what to do next.
A former federal prosecutor leads Suzuki Law Offices. We bring decades of legal experience to your rape case. We can learn about you and your case and discuss your legal options with you. Speak to a Glendale sex crimes lawyer.
What to Expect if You Are Convicted of Rape
In terms of what Arizona law says about statutory rape, expect to be punished to the fullest extent if you are convicted. Rape is a Class 2 felony. A first-time offender faces up to 14 years in prison. Penalties escalate if someone has been convicted of rape multiple times. If an individual is convicted of rape that results in a serious injury, they could receive a life prison sentence.
There is a social stigma that comes with a rape conviction. It may be difficult to maintain positive and healthy relationships with family members and friends if you are convicted of this crime. In addition, your conviction can hamper your ability to buy a home, find your dream job, and enjoy your life freely.
Suzuki Law Offices has a history of integrity and excellence. Trust a Glendale rape defense attorney from our team to help you contest your criminal charge. We can disprove the prosecution’s argument so you can keep your freedom. Consult with a Glendale criminal defense lawyer.
How a Sex Crimes Attorney Can Help You with Your Case
The prosecution will do everything it can to show the court that you should be convicted. A rape defense lawyer in Glendale knows how the criminal defense system works. They allocate time and resources to your case and assist you in many ways, including:
Teaching You About the Severity of a Conviction
If you do nothing, you can be punished in accordance with Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1406. Your lawyer explains the short- and long-term ramifications of a conviction. They are honest about the penalties that come with your charge. From here, you and your attorney can work together to find ways to avoid these penalties.
Advocating for You in Court
It can be overwhelming to hear a prosecutor make claims about you that may be untrue. A rape defense attorney in Glendale remains on your side. They dispute the prosecution’s claims and protect your legal rights and best interests.
Providing Legal Advice
You have no idea what the legal process entails. If you are worried about what will happen, share your legal concerns and questions with your lawyer. This helps you weigh the pros and cons of any legal decisions you make during your case.
The legal process is challenging, and you do not have to go through it alone. Your lawyer guides you through this process and minimizes the risk of mistakes. They craft a legal strategy that could prove to the court that the case against you should be dismissed.
Glendale Rape Defense Legal Strategies to Consider
Your lawyer describes the categories of sex crimes in Arizona and why it is critical to argue against the prosecution’s case. They evaluate proof and account for myriad factors as they put together a legal strategy for you. Legal defenses your attorney may consider include:
Consent
You and someone else engaged in consensual sexual activity. Days later, you are arrested for rape. Your lawyer can share emails, texts, and other written communications between you and your accuser. They may use these in conjunction with other evidence to prove that both parties agreed to this activity.
Alibi
It is possible to be charged with rape but not have been present when the crime was allegedly committed. Your attorney could present an alibi on your behalf. They can detail how you were somewhere else when a criminal act supposedly occurred. If the court verifies that your alibi is accurate, the prosecution may struggle to get a conviction.
Mistaken Identity
An individual can accuse you of rape because they believe you are someone else. Your attorney can prove that you are the victim of mistaken identity. They can argue that your accuser identified you as someone else and that you should not be punished for a crime you did not commit.
Raising Doubts About an Accuser’s Credibility
Your lawyer can ask questions that make the court doubt whether an accuser’s claims are legitimate. They can point to inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements against you. If there is a reasonable doubt about what the accuser has said about you, the court may be inclined to rule in your favor.
A rape charge does not automatically lead to a conviction. Your lawyer wants the court to see your side of the story. If your attorney succeeds, the court may not believe there is enough proof to warrant a conviction.
Tips to Help You with Your Case
Partner with a criminal defense attorney immediately after your arrest. Select a lawyer who has received positive client reviews. Your attorney starts building your case right away. They can speak to the police and other parties about your charge and help you avoid mistakes that could otherwise damage your case.
Attend your court hearings and follow your lawyer’s instructions as your case moves forward. Gather evidence and prepare for your trial. Your attorney makes sure you know what will happen if a trial is required.
Review a plea deal if the prosecution offers one. It is not a given that you will get a plea bargain. However, a prosecutor may offer one if they have concerns about the strength of their case. You and your lawyer can evaluate this proposal. If you believe the offer is fair, you can approve the agreement and accept a lesser charge than rape.
Receive the Top-Tier Legal Help That You Need and Deserve
The Suzuki Law Offices team offers exceptional legal service to those who have been charged with rape. We look at every possible angle to fight back against your charge.
Our team is steadfast in our approach and will handle your case with care. Give us the opportunity to assist you. Schedule a case consultation with us.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form