Rape Defenses: Understanding the Complexities

When it comes to criminal charges in the state of Ohio, few are as serious as rape. This term encompasses various sex crimes that involve force and lack of consent. Ohio law recognizes different types of rape, making these cases intricate and burdensome for all parties involved. If you find yourself arrested for rape, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a skilled Lisbon sex crimes lawyer who can construct a formidable defense strategy for your case.

The Trusted Ohio Rape Defense Attorney

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we have a team of experienced Lisbon sex crimes attorneys dedicated to fighting against sex crime charges. With their wealth of knowledge and expertise, they will take proactive measures to vigorously defend your case and minimize any potential negative consequences. We value your rights and are committed to crafting a strong defense on your behalf.

If you have been accused of a sex crime, do not hesitate to contact Youngstown Criminal Law Group at 330-992-3036. Our dedicated Lisbon prostitution attorneys are here to protect you from the life-altering consequences that come with such accusations. We proudly represent clients in Lisbon and throughout Columbiana County, Ohio. Reach out to us today and let us guide you through this challenging legal journey.

Different Types of Rape

Understanding the specific types of rape charges is crucial, as each carries distinct penalties and may require different defenses. Here are the main categories:

Rape: In Ohio, rape occurs when an individual (other than a spouse who doesn’t live with the victim) does any of the following:

• Administers a substance, surreptitiously or by force, threat of force, or deception, to substantially impair the victim’s judgment.
• Engages in sexual conduct with a minor under the age of 13.
• Engages in sexual conduct with someone known or reasonably believed to have impaired ability to resist due to mental or physical conditions, or advanced age.
• Compels submission to sexual conduct by force or threat.

Statutory Rape: Any sexual activity involving a minor under the age of 13 is considered rape in Ohio, regardless of the offender’s knowledge of the victim’s age.

Spousal Rape: In Ohio, a spouse can only be charged and convicted of raping their cohabitating spouse if force or threat of force was involved.

It’s important to note that rape should not be confused with sexual battery, which is a broader term encompassing various sexual offenses, including:

• Parent-child incest
• Engaging in sexual conduct with someone substantially impaired or unaware of the situation
• Engaging in sexual conduct with an individual under specific types of authority
• Coercing someone into sexual conduct that prevents resistance

While some jurisdictions may categorize these offenses differently, they can still be considered forms of rape.

Statute Of Limitations

One potential defense to a rape charge is based on the statute of limitations for these charges. Generally, rape charges must be filed within 25 years of the alleged offense, unless certain exceptions apply. However, it is important to note that under specific circumstances, if a DNA match identifies the perpetrator of rape even after the initial 25 years have passed, charges may still be filed within five years of that determination. It’s worth mentioning that if the statute of limitations has expired, any rape charges against an alleged offender may be dropped. This highlights the significance of understanding the intricacies of the statute of limitations in such cases.

The Issue Of Consent

In Ohio, the age of consent is 16. If a defendant can successfully argue that the sexual activity was consensual and that the alleged victim was at least 16 years old at the time, the prosecution cannot establish the elements of rape.

Consent can be used as a defense against rape, with the exception of statutory rape cases. In Ohio, individuals who have not yet reached the age of 13 are deemed incapable of giving consent for sexual activity. Therefore, even if the offender was unaware of the victim’s age, they cannot claim consent as a defense to rape when engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor under the age of 13.

Defenses for Rape in Ohio

In Ohio, rape and sexual battery are considered separate offenses. Hence, it is common to use the defense that the elements of rape were not satisfied and that, at most, the alleged offender committed a lesser offense, such as sexual battery. It is important to note that Ohio’s definition of rape is quite stringent in comparison to many other states. Arguably, a persuasive defense in Ohio is to assert that if any charges are to be brought, they should be lesser sex offenses.

In cases involving statutory rape allegations, disclosure of the victim’s true age, evidencing that they were older than 12 at the time of the alleged offense, can lead to the dismissal of statutory rape charges.

Moreover, solid defense grounds against rape in Ohio include proving that the victim was fully capable of providing consent, that no substances were administered to cause their impairment, and that the sexual conduct in question did not occur as a result of force or threats of force. Due to the narrow elements of rape in Ohio, a successful defense rests on demonstrating that one or more of these limited elements cannot be proven by the prosecution beyond a reasonable doubt.

Youngstown Criminal Law Group: Your Trusted Ohio Rape Defense Lawyer

Being faced with criminal charges can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. We understand that you may have concerns about your freedom and countless questions running through your mind. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we have extensive experience in defending individuals accused of sex crimes, and we are here to help you.

Don’t suffer silently. Seek the justice you rightfully deserve. Schedule your first consultation with our qualified Lisbon prostitution lawyer without delay. To discuss all of your legal options, call 330-992-3036 today. Youngstown Criminal Law Group accepts rape cases in the greater Lisbon area, including Anderson, Colerain, Green, Harrison, Miami, Springfield, Symmes, Sycamore, and various other locations.