If you or a loved one has been accused of statutory rape, it is in your best interest to seek legal representation. Navigating the legal system as a non-lawyer can be difficult, so it helps to have someone on your side who understands how the process works and can guide you through every step.
At the Law Offices of M.J. Snyder, LLC, we’ve defended people from all walks of life and secured many positive outcomes for our clients. You can start working with a Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer today by requesting a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
What Is Statutory Rape in Pennsylvania?
According to 18 Pa. C.S.A. § 3122.1, you may be convicted of statutory rape in Pennsylvania if you engage in sexual intercourse with someone under the age of 16 to whom you are not married. You must also be at least four years older than them.
Depending on the age difference between the two parties, this crime may be either a second-degree or first-degree felony. The criminal penalties for these types of sex crimes can be significant. They include jail time and being listed as a sex offender on the sex offender registry. You need a strong legal defense from an experienced attorney and the legal team at the Law Offices of M.J. Snyder, LLC is here to help.
For a free legal consultation with a statutory rape defense lawyer serving Philadelphia, call 215.515.3360
Hiring a Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer May Reduce Your Risk of Conviction in Philadelphia
We believe everyone is innocent until proven guilty and that every defendant deserves excellent representation, whether in court or at any other step of the criminal defense process. Sex crime accusations are very serious and you need the strongest defense possible to avoid permanent damage to your reputation.
We have extensive experience with statutory rape laws and take a multi-pronged approach toward criminal defense. This means you can count on our help, no matter what stage your particular case is in.
Related: Accused of a Sex Crime in Philadelphia: 10 Steps to Take
Philadelphia Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer 215.515.3360
A Philadelphia Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer Will Build Your Case for You
The prosecuting attorney will do everything they can to win their case against you. Their goal is to seek the severe penalties they can and request the maximum sentence possible. They will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and submit statements to undermine your case. Part of our legal strategy will be looking for opportunities to challenge the existing evidence and ultimately prove your innocence.
Some of the evidence we’ll use when establishing your defense may include:
- Interviews and statements from eyewitnesses and character witnesses
- Reports and evaluations from expert witnesses
- Social media, phone, and internet records
- Hospital and other medical records
By gathering evidence and creating a narrative that contradicts the prosecution’s arguments, we may increase the chances of convincing a jury of your innocence. Any bit of reasonable doubt could be enough by law to avoid a conviction in your case.
On top of our evidence collection efforts, we may also be able to suppress evidence the prosecuting attorney collected through illegal means. Law enforcement has a well-understood track record of conducting illegal searches or seizures or conducting a search without first establishing probable cause. You have constitutional rights that do not disappear because the prosecutor is eager for a win. We will do whatever it takes to protect your rights and build your defense.
Your Philadelphia, PA Statutory Rape Defense Attorney Will Advocate for You
Depending on the specifics of your case, we will plan our approach to suit what’s best for you. We may negotiate a plea if needed or work toward getting all charges dropped. If we can get charges dropped in your case, you won’t have to deal with the stress of going to trial.
However, if your case does go to trial, we will do all we can to bolster your case so that you have the highest chance possible of a positive outcome. Some of the things we can do for you include:
- Gathering evidence to show at trial
- Preparing witnesses and conducting interviews accordingly
- Filing motions according to the requirements in your case
- Participating in the jury selection process
- Ensuring your rights are protected
- Cross-examining witnesses called by the prosecution
- Arguing for your acquittal and/or having charges dropped
- Filing appeals in your case as needed
- Making both opening and closing remarks
No matter the specifics of your case, our Philadelphia rape defense lawyers have the skills and experience needed to represent you in and out of court. Our priority is ensuring our clients are heard and feel they have an advocate on their side looking out for them. This will be a difficult period of your life and we can help you get through it.
Your Philadelphia Rape Defense Attorney Will Guide You Through the Entire Process
If you’re facing statutory rape charges, we know the severity of the situation and want to help you achieve a positive outcome for your future. To that end, we’ll guide you through the legal process, helping you avoid any unnecessary confusion or stress. We will:
- Maintain regular communication, so you never feel alone
- Give you honest and accurate information in your case
- Give you a detailed explanation of your rights and available legal options
- Offer guidance to help you make the best decisions in your case
- Give you regular updates, so you always know exactly what’s going on
Even in the earliest stages of your case, we’ll do all we can to work hard for you. Unlike some firms that take things out of their clients’ control, we work with our clients to help them make informed decisions according to their established priorities. It’s important to remember that through all of this, we’re only a phone call or email away. You do not have to go through this alone. We are here to help.
Why Work With a Philadelphia Statutory Rape Criminal Defense Attorney at the Law Offices of M.J. Snyder, LLC?
At the Law Offices of M.J. Snyder, LLC, we know what it means to advocate for our clients. We’ve built our reputation by representing people from all walks of life, and over the years, we’ve secured many favorable outcomes for our clients.
We give our clients accurate and honest legal information so that they know exactly what to expect. During our confidential consultation, we will explain all your options and help you decide the best course of action for you.
Start Working With a Philadelphia, PA Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one have been charged with statutory rape in or around Philadelphia, PA, you are not alone. A Philadelphia, PA statutory rape defense lawyer is here and ready to help.
Statutory rape accusations can lead to a wide range of consequences for the accused. With our years of experience, we know how to handle the sensitive nature of these cases and work towards the best outcome possible for you.
Contact the Law Offices of M.J. Snyder, LLC and get a free legal consultation today.
