Statutory Rape is the charge for a rape, sexual assault or having sexual relations with a person under the age of sixteen (16) where there is no force or physical threat used. In the eyes of the law, any person under the age of sixteen (16) is a minor and is not legally capable of giving consent. The law does not care if the sixteen year old has a relationship with the person or encouraged the sexual act.

If you or someone you love has been accused of Statutory Rape, call Massachusetts Criminal Sex Crimes Lawyer Kathleen McCarthy right now at 978-975-8060 or contact us online to send an email. Kathleen McCarthy is an experienced, thorough and relentless lawyer, powerful in the court room and at the negotiating table. She will fight on your behalf to protect you and your loved ones.

Usually charges of Statutory Rape are brought by parents after the child has been discovered to be involved a sexual relationship, learns that she is pregnant, or after the child no longer wishes to continue the relationship. The incident is usually reported by a parent to the police department and a report filed with the District Attorney's office. The office of the District Attorney decides whether charges are warranted.

The court does not care about "teenage love." A sixteen (16) year old can be convicted for Statutory Rape of a fifteen (15) year old. And the law does not care if the underage minor told claimed to be eighteen (18) years or age or older. Even if the victim lied about their age, even if they look like they are over eighteen (18), the older person - even if the accused is under eighteen (18) - will still be charged with Statutory Rape.

Laws are even stricter where the accused is in a position of authority over a minor. Statutory rape of a minor by a teacher, coach, assistant coach, or tutor or similar relationship is taken even more seriously and penalties for violation of these laws are more severe.

If you or someone you love has been arrested for Statutory Rape, you must immediately retain a Massachusetts Criminal Sex Crimes lawyer who is experienced in these kinds of cases and is willing to take an all-out aggressive defense. The consequences of this conviction are too serious for anything less.

Call Massachusetts Criminal Sex Crimes Lawyer Kathleen McCarthy right now at 978-975-8060 or contact us online to send an email. Do not delay.