Top Tempe, AZ Statutory Rape Lawyers Near You

Consent Is Not a Defense to Statutory Rape

Statutory rape is generally defined as sexual intercourse by an adult with a person below a statutorily designated age. Under the law, the underage person is incapable of consenting to sex so you could be convicted of statutory rape even if the underage person consented to the sexual contact and you did not force the person.

Have You Been Charged With Statutory Rape?

Statutory rape is a serious crime and in most states it is considered a felony, which means, if you are convicted, you could be facing serious punishment including jail. There are legal defenses to the charge, however, so don’t delay, contact a Tempe statutory rape defense attorney to help you with your case.

Best Time to Seek Legal Help

No matter what your legal issue may be, it is always best to seek legal help early in the process. An attorney can help secure what is likely to be the best possible outcome for your situation and avoid both unnecessary complications or errors.

What to Expect from an Initial Consultation

• Seek to determine whether the attorney can represent you. There is no one-size-fits-all legal solution and it may turn out your needs are better served by an attorney in a different specialization.
• It’s important to find a legal ally who is both competent in the law and someone you can trust to protect your interests.
• Discuss how the practice’s billing works and discuss possible additional charges or fees that may arise during or after the resolution of your case.

An attorney consultation should provide you with enough information so that you can make an informed decision on whether to proceed with legal help.

How to Find the Right Attorney

• Determine the area of law that relates to your issue. Attorneys specialize in specific practice areas around legal issues within the broad field of law.
• Seek out recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues. A successful attorney or practice will typically have many satisfied clients.
• Set up consultation appointments to get a better understanding of your case as well as gauge your comfort level with different attorneys. Find the attorney who is the right fit for your needs.

Common legal terms explained

Affidavit – A sworn written statement made under oath. An affidavit is meant to be a supporting document to the court assisting in the verification of certain facts. An affidavit may or may not require notarization.