Statutory Rape Defense In Waynesville, Sylva, Asheville And Surrounding Areas

Statutory rape is a type of offense where sexual intercourse is consensual between the two parties. What makes this crime unique, however, is that it is a strict liability crime. It doesn’t matter if the act was consensual, only that the person was between the ages of 13-16 and the other person was either six (6) years older or four-six (4-6) years older.

Often, family members or third parties are people who bring these charges on behalf of the minor for one reason or another.

Specifics Of The Law

Under North Carolina General Statute S14-27.7, a defendant is guilty of a Class B1 felony if the defendant engages in vaginal intercourse or a sexual act with another person who is 13, 14 or 15 years old and the defendant is at least six years older than the person, except when the defendant is lawfully married to the person.

A defendant is guilty of a Class C felony if the defendant engages in vaginal intercourse or a sexual act with another person who is 13, 14, or 15 years old and the defendant is more than four but less than six years older than the person, except when the defendant is lawfully married to the person.

For all of these charges, if found guilty there is a requirement for registration on the Sex Offender Registry.

Getting A Criminal Defense Attorney ASAP

If you or your loved one has been charged with statutory rape or any other sex offense, getting an experienced criminal defense attorney to vigorously defend against these charges is vital to preserving the future.

Contact the Waynesville lawyers with Nielsen Legal today: 828-564-1321. Free consultations available.