Cleveland Rape Defense Lawyer

Accused of Rape in Ohio?

In Ohio, engaging in nonconsensual sexual conduct with another person is a felony. Being accused of the crime can severely alter the course of your life. Because felonies are considered the most serious crimes, the conviction penalties for rape are harsh. They can include tens of thousands of dollars in fines and/or a prison term for years to life. Additionally, rape is a sexually oriented offense, and a guilty verdict can result in a requirement to register as a sex offender for life. This means that your personal identifying information, including your address, will be distributed to the community in which you live and placed in an online database that is publicly accessible. As a result, your relationships and reputation can be adversely impacted.

At HMW Law, our team has handled complex cases and knows that allegations can often arise from misunderstandings. In some matters, false accusations are made with malicious intent. Our rape defense attorneys in Cleveland will work directly with you to truly understand what happened in your situation. When we take on a case, we don't judge. We listen with compassion and respect and look at the entire picture. After we get to know you and your case, we can develop a custom-fit defense to aggressively fight back against the allegations made against you.

For legal representation from a nationally recognized firm, call our Cleveland rape defense lawyers at (216) 220-6776 or contact us online today. Your initial consultation is free.

Understanding Ohio's Rape Laws

Ohio Revised Code 2907.02 makes it unlawful for any person to have sex with another when the other individual did not voluntarily or willfully engage in the sexual conduct.

Sexual conduct means any of the following:

• Vaginal intercourse
• Anal intercourse
• Oral sex
• Insertion of a body part or object/instrument into the vagina or anus (it does not matter how slight the penetration is)

A person may be accused of rape if they have sex with someone who is not their spouse (or is their spouse, but they are separated), and they:

• Secretly or by force, administer a drug, intoxicant, or controlled substance to prevent the other individual from resisting;
• Engage in the conduct with a person who is under 13 years of age (regardless of whether they know how old the individual is); or
• Engage in the conduct knowing that the other person can't resist because of age or a mental or physical condition.

Additionally, a rape charge may be levied if a person uses force or threats to compel the other person to engage in the act.

Penalties for Rape in Ohio

Rape is a first-degree felony. Generally, the conviction penalties include a fine of up to $20,000 and/or a minimum prison term of 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11 years.

However, in certain instances, heftier prison sentences may be imposed:

• If the offense involved the surreptitious or forced use of a controlled substance to prevent the alleged victim from resisting, the court must impose a mandatory minimum prison term of 5 years.
• If the offense was committed against a person under 13 years of age, a court can sentence the defendant to up to life in prison. This does not apply if the defendant was under 16 years of age at the time of the offense and they did not physically harm the alleged victim.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today for Your Rape Case in Ohio

Being charged with a sex crime is serious, and you need a skilled lawyer to guide you through your case and seek an optimal result on your behalf. At HMW Law, our Cleveland rape defense lawyers can put in the time and effort necessary to build a compelling and aggressive strategy for you. We will be committed to protecting your rights and freedom every step of the way.

Learn more about your legal options by calling our Cleveland rape defense attorneys at (216) 220-6776 or submitting an online contact form. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your call.