Tampa Rape Defense Attorney

Non-Judgmental and Skilled Rape Defense Lawyers in Tampa, Florida

Are you undergoing investigation for sexual assault, or have you already been charged with rape? If yes, you need a qualified Tampa rape defense attorney on your side as soon as possible. That’s because, when it comes to a rape allegation, the stakes are too high to leave to chance.

Rape charges are very severe and can ruin your life forever. As such, it’s best to have qualified personnel to convincingly tell your side of the story on your behalf. Even when you believe you’re innocent, this is not the time to fold your arms to “see how it goes.” Things can go south in the twinkle of an eye, and you may soon find yourself wishing you had fought harder.

 

What Is A Rape Charge?

Understand What Amounts to Rape in Florida

Florida laws define rape or sexual battery as using a sexual organ to penetrate someone else’s vagina, anus, or mouth without their consent. It is also sexual battery when a person forcefully penetrates another’s vagina or anus with an object. Note that this excludes actions performed by a medical officer for legitimate reasons.

Note that a rape charge doesn’t automatically mean you’re guilty. Many times, we see cases where rape allegations were leveled against individuals due to a misunderstanding, revenge, manipulation, or similar motives.

 

What Are The Consequences of A Rape Conviction in Tampa?

A Rape Conviction Can Rob You of Your Freedom and Future—Don’t Let It

Rape or sexual assault remains one of the most serious crimes anyone can commit. It carries grave penalties not only legally but socially, economically, and otherwise. Some of the effects of a sexual assault conviction are for life and continue even after serving prison time.

Generally, rape is a second-degree felony with jail time of up to 15 years, 15 years of probation, and a fine of $10,000. However, rape penalties differ from case to case and depend on numerous factors, including the presence of aggravating or extraneous elements.

For example, rape becomes a first-degree felony when a weapon is alleged to have been used. This category of sexual assault carries a jail term and sex offender probation of 30 years each and a $10,000 fine. Meanwhile, if the alleged victim was between 12 and 18 years old, it becomes a life felony punishable by life imprisonment/probation and a $10,000 fine. When the victim is below 12 years of age, the punishment is life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

In addition to the above, the consequences of a rape conviction include:

• Registration as a sex offender for life
• Stigma and loss of social status
• Increased chances of losing your job
• Community service
• Inability to gain meaningful employment, housing, and many more.

 

Why Choose Us?

Our Rape Defense Attorneys Are Tenacious, Empathetic, Qualified, And Capable

There’s a thin line between consensual sex and sexual assault. This is what makes rape defense cases complicated and pretty difficult to handle, even for the most experienced of attorneys. If you’re contemplating handling your rape defense all by yourself, you should think twice. Going through a trial without the support of a qualified lawyer only makes the job easier for the prosecution.

In other words, there’s no question as to whether you need a Tampa rape defense attorney to handle your case. What you should be contemplating is how to ensure that you have the best-suited legal hands on your team. Fortunately, this is where you’re in luck. Our formidable team of rape defense lawyers are here for you.

There are many reasons why you should consider our law firm to defend your sexual assault charge. First, our knowledge of rape cases helps us understand the intricacies of the situation you’re facing and how to navigate them. Also, we are former prosecutors, so we are very familiar with the tactics of the prosecution and are, therefore, well-positioned to create the best defense.

As attorneys with integrity, we will let you know when you have a questionable case.

In the worst-case scenarios, we’ll strive to mitigate or reduce the severity of your charge through any possible means. This is much better than fighting head-on only to arrive at the maximum rape punishment.

With our many years of experience, excellent advocacy skills, personalized approach, and adequate resources at our disposal, you’re in the best hands. Contact us today to plan your defense strategy and begin your journey to the best outcome.

Common Questions Tampa Rape Defendants Ask

Find Answers to Your Legal Concerns When You Ask Us

Here are answers to the most pressing concerns many clients have:

What’s the Statute of Limitations for Statutory Rape in Florida? 

Statutory rape happens when the victim is below the legal age of consent, even if they willingly engaged in the sexual activity. Based on Florida’s laws, the prosecution has only three years from the date of the alleged offense to file a statutory rape lawsuit. However, this period may be longer depending on the category of statutory rape.

What Are The Defenses to a Rape Charge in Tampa?

Defenses to rape charges in Tampa include consent, mistaken identity, insanity, involuntary intoxication, and violation of Miranda warnings. The appropriate defense for your case depends on the peculiar circumstances surrounding it. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case and determine the best defense for you.

Should I Speak to the Police Following a Rape Accusation? 

No. We advise that you refrain from saying anything to anyone, especially law enforcement officers, without the go-ahead from your attorney. Doing otherwise will increase your chances of self-incrimination, which will be used against you during trial. Our attorneys will let you know the steps to protect your rights when you contact us.

How Long Will a Rape Conviction Stay on My Criminal Record in Florida?

As a very serious offense, a conviction for a sex crime such as rape will stay on your criminal record forever. This means that it cannot be sealed or expunged. The only way to ensure that you don’t have a rape conviction on your criminal record is by taking your rape defense seriously.

We are responsive attorneys who are available 24/7 to answer your questions. If you have any, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Let an Aggressive Tampa Rape Defense Attorney at Taracks & Associates Give You a Fair Fighting Chance Against a Rape Conviction

Take Action by Contacting Our Aggressive Rape Defense Team Now

While rape defense cases are generally complex, our Tampa rape defense attorneys at Taracks & Associates know their way around it. Our experience as former prosecutors gives us an edge that we intend to leverage in your favor. We’ll painstakingly review your case, considering even the most minute details to prepare a solid defense on your behalf.

More than just offering legal representation, we’re empathetic professionals who will also prioritize your overall well-being at this difficult time. With us, you can be sure of unwavering legal and moral support.