Cincinnati Defense Lawyers For Sexual Battery Charges
Sexual battery and rape are among the most serious sex offenses in Ohio. They come with potentially lifelong ramifications, as well as social ostracism and a brutal stigma. Accordingly, rape charges require defense lawyers who know what they’re doing and have a proven record of results.
At Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima, we recognize the sensitivity and complexity of these cases. With many decades of combined legal experience serving as defense attorneys handling Cincinnati rapes, we are well-equipped to vigorously defend your rights. We have earned numerous forms of professional recognition for our outstanding advocacy on behalf of clients. Additionally, we have prevailed in numerous high-stakes criminal cases.
What Constitutes Sexual Battery And Rape In Cincinnati?
Under Ohio law, both sexual battery and rape involve nonconsensual sexual conduct. They’re akin to sexual assault charges in other states. However, they differ from each other in several key ways:
- Rape involves sexual activity without consent, including the use of force, threats, coercion or a victim under the age of 13.
- Sexual battery involves sexual activity with someone who is incapacitated, impaired or coerced. It also involves sexual activity with vulnerable individuals by those who are in a position of power.
Understanding the nuances of sex offense charges is critical to building an effective defense. As defense lawyers who understand rape charges and sexual battery charges in all of their intricacies, we are well-equipped to stand up for you.
What Are The Possible Penalties For Sexual Battery And Rape In Cincinnati?
The consequences of sexual battery and rape can be severe. These charges are categorized by different degrees of felonies based on the offense’s circumstances. Higher degrees carry more serious penalties:
- Rape is typically a first-degree felony, and it may come with a mandatory term of imprisonment, even up to life.
- Sexual battery is typically a third-degree felony, resulting in up to five years in prison.
Both rape and sexual battery are tier 3 offenses for purposes of sex offender registration. This means that if you’re convicted, you will have to register with law enforcement every 90 days for life.
Common Legal Defenses For Rape And Sexual Battery
Any number of defenses may be available if you’re facing rape or sexual battery charges in Cincinnati. Depending on the situation, you may have grounds for a defense based on:
- Consent
- Alibi
- Ungrounded accusations
- Mistaken identity
- Mental incapacity
- Unreliable witnesses and accusers
- Violations of your rights
- Insufficient evidence that the crime occurred
Additionally, there may be grounds to suppress certain evidence – for example, if it was obtained in violation of your rights. If the judge disallows the evidence, the prosecution may no longer have grounds to charge you. Another avenue may be negotiating a favorable plea deal that spares you from harsh consequences.
We know what to look for when pinpointing weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. You can count on us to leverage the right defense strategies for your unique circumstances. We will pursue every angle to find the strongest path forward.
Begin Your Defense Against Rape Charges Today
If you’re facing rape or sexual battery charges in Hamilton County, don’t wait to get started with a powerful defense. We will take the time to get to know you and dig into every detail of your case. It’s our top priority to safeguard your rights and protect you from the lifelong consequences of a conviction.
Let us stand by you every step of the way. Call 513-496-0134 or reach out online to take the first step toward challenging the charges.
