Top Waialua, HI 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 Waialua statutory rape defense attorney to help you with your case.

How an Attorney Can Help

An attorney can often resolve your particular legal issue faster and better than trying to do it alone. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, while avoiding costly mistakes or procedural errors. You should seek out an attorney whose practice focuses on the area of law most relevant to your issue.

The Importance of a Good Consultation

The goal of an initial consultation is to find an attorney you are comfortable working with and someone who can help you understand your options under the law. Seek to understand the relevant legal experience the attorney brings to your case. While it is not realistic to expect an attorney to resolve your legal issue during an initial consultation, you should gain a level of comfort with his/her ability to do so. A good consultation can clarify issues, raise pertinent questions and considerations for your case, and help you make an informed decision towards resolving your legal issue.

How will an attorney charge me?

A reputable attorney will be very upfront about how he/she will charge you. The three most common fee structures that attorneys use to charge for their services are:

• Bill by the hour
• Contingent fee agreement
• Flat fee agreement

Depending on your specific legal situation, it’s possible that only one type of fee structure is available. For instance, criminal defense attorneys almost always bill by the hour. In a flat fee arrangement, an attorney accepts a one-time payment to help you resolve your issue. With a contingent fee agreement, the client pays little to nothing upfront and the attorney receives a percentage of the money recovered if you win your case.

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.