Trusted Rape Representation for Clients in Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Prairieville, Livingston Parish, Assumption Parish, Ascension Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Zachary, LA & Beyond
Rape is not only one of the most serious sex crimes but one of the most serious criminal offenses, period. If you have been accused of or charged with rape, you should know that the prosecution is likely already gathering evidence and building its case against you. It's extremely important that you have an equally powerful team on your side.
Since 2009, The Ambeau Law Firm has been defending individuals accused of all types of crimes in Southern Louisiana. Our dedicated Baton Rouge rape defense attorneys are prepared to protect your constitutional rights and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.
If you or someone you care about has been accused of rape, contact us right away for a free, confidential consultation with one of our attorneys: (225) 330-7009.
Understanding Rape Charges in Louisiana
Although the crimes of rape and sexual assault are often confused, these are two distinct offenses under Louisiana law. Generally speaking, rape occurs when a person engages in vaginal, anal, or oral sex with another person without their consent.
Additionally, rape is further broken down into the following categories:
- Aggravated Rape: The crime of rape is charged as aggravated rape when the alleged offender uses or threatens to use force to overcome the victim's resistance; when the alleged offender prevents the victim from resisting because the offender has a deadly weapon; when the victim is under the age of 13 or over the age of 64; when the victim is mentally or physically incapacitated (paralyzed, mentally retarded, etc.); or when there are two or more alleged offenders.
- Forcible Rape: A defendant can be charged with forcible rape when the victim is rendered incapable of providing consent due to the use of a controlled substance or narcotic, such as the “date rape drug,” Rohypnol; or when the alleged offender stops the victim from resisting through force or the threat of physical violence.
- Simple Rape: Simple rape occurs when the victim is not able to provide consent because he/she is intoxicated or otherwise incapacitated and the alleged offender knew that the victim was intoxicated/incapacitated; when the victim is either permanently or temporarily unable to understand what is happening and, therefore, cannot give consent; or when a male offender purposefully deceives a female victim, causing her to believe that he is her husband/partner.
Each type of rape charge carries its own penalties, but extraneous circumstances—such as whether or not the alleged offender has a criminal record—can also play a role. In general, the penalties for aggravated rape include life in prison with hard labor and without the possibility of parole, the penalties for forcible rape include 5 to 40 years in prison with hard labor, and the penalties for simple rape include up to 25 years in prison with or without hard labor. Those convicted must also register on the sex offender registry for life.
Contact an Attorney at Our Firm Now
Obviously, being charged with rape of any kind is extremely serious. Your future and your freedom are on the line. At The Ambeau Law Firm, we understand the seriousness of your situation, and our Baton Rouge rape defense lawyers are prepared to aggressively defend you and your rights.
The first and most important step you can take is to reach out to our legal team as soon as possible for a free and confidential consultation. In most cases, we are able to meet with you in person to discuss your charges and help you get a better understanding of your legal options.
Contact us online or call (225) 330-7009 today to find out how we can help you.
