Fighting for Clients in Statutory Rape Cases in Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Prairieville, Livingston Parish, Assumption Parish, Zachary, LA & Beyond
Have you or your loved one been accused of statutory rape? You need an experienced and aggressive legal team in your corner. At The Ambeau Law Firm, we have been providing trusted, professional representation for the accused since 2009. Our experienced attorneys understand what you are up against—and they are prepared to fight tirelessly for you, your rights, and your future.
The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building a solid defense on your behalf. Contact us at (225) 330-7009 now for a free, in-person consultation with our Baton Rouge statutory rape defense attorneys.
What Is Statutory Rape?
In Louisiana, statutory rape—also known as carnal knowledge of a juvenile—is defined as engaging in sexual acts with a person who is under the age of 17, which is the state's legal age of consent. It does not matter if the minor was the one to initiate the sexual activity or if he/she otherwise “provided consent;” the state of Louisiana contends that no one under the age of 17 is capable of providing consent and, therefore, committing sexual acts with a minor is a crime.
There are certain exceptions to this, however. If both individuals are minors under the age of 17 but over the age of 13, it is unlikely that either can be convicted of statutory rape, as long as the sexual activity was consensual. Similarly, if there is a two-year (or less) age gap between the two individuals, and the sexual acts were consensual in nature, neither can be convicted of statutory rape.
Additional defenses to statutory rape charges include when the minor and the defendant are married and when the defendant did not know the true age of the minor.
Penalties for Statutory Rape in Louisiana
Statutory rape can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony in Louisiana, depending on the various factors present.
Below is a general overview of the penalties for either charge:
- Misdemeanor Statutory Rape: Up to six months in jail and/or fines up to $1,000
- Felony Statutory Rape: Up to 10 years in prison (with or without hard labor) and/or fines up to $5,000
Additionally, if charged with indecent behavior with a child (which is separate from statutory rape charges), you could face up to seven years in prison with or without hard labor and fines up to $5,000. If the child in question is under the age of 13, you could face penalties ranging from 2 to 25 years in prison with hard labor.
Put Our Team on Your Side
Statutory rape charges are serious, but that doesn't mean you should give up hope. At The Ambeau Law Firm, we can help you build a solid defense to your charges. Our Baton Rouge statutory rape lawyers can help you understand your legal options and work tirelessly to defend your rights. When you work with us, you work directly with your attorney every step of the way.
Contact us online or call (225) 330-7009 for a free and confidential case evaluation.
