Have You Been Accused of a Sexual Assault in Rhode Island?

If you or a loved one has been accused of first degree sexual assault in Rhode Island, you know how important it is to find quality, aggressive legal representation. Unfortunately, being charged in Rhode Island with a crime like sexual assault will have immediate and lasting effects on your job, your loved ones, and your reputation, even if you are completely innocent. Without the support of a knowledgeable, empathetic attorney, defending against such a charge can be overwhelming and down-right frightening.

If you are being investigated, charged or arrested for a sex crime in Rhode Island contact the Marin & Barrett Law firm today IMMEDIATELY at (401) 228-8271 for a free consultation.

Have you been arrested for Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault in the first degree, which is commonly referred to as rape, is a very serious felony offense and is prosecuted vigorously. If you are in this position, it is important to understand your legal rights and the penalties that a crime like this can carry within the state of Rhode Island.  The consequences regardless of whether you are found guilty or not will have a last impact on your life for many years. Hiring an experienced criminal defense law firm in Rhode Island to help navigate you through this process will have an impact on your entire future - and you only have one. 

Understanding How Rhode Island Defines Sexual Assault Charges

11-37-2 First degree sexual assault

A person is guilty of first degree sexual assault if he or she engages in sexual penetration with another person, and if any of the following circumstances exist:
(1) The accused, not being the spouse, knows or has reason to know that the victim is mentally incapacitated, mentally disabled, or physically helpless.
(2) The accused uses force or coercion.
(3) The accused, through concealment or by the element of surprise, is able to overcome the victim.
(4) The accused engages in the medical treatment or examination of the victim for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or stimulation.

• 11-37-4 Second degree sexual assault.

A person is guilty of a second degree sexual assault if he or she engages in sexual contact with another person and if any of the following circumstances exist:
(1) The accused knows or has reason to know that the victim is mentally incapacitated, mentally disabled or physically helpless.
(2) The accused uses force or coercion.
(3) The accused engages in the medical treatment or examination of the victim for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification or stimulation.

• 11-37-6 Third degree sexual assault.

A person is guilty of third degree sexual assault if he or she is over the age of eighteen (18) years and engaged in sexual penetration with another person over the age of fourteen (14) years and under the age of consent, sixteen (16) years of age.

Understanding How Rhode Island Penalizes Sexual Assault

First degree sexual assault is punishable by up to life imprisonment. Any conviction also requires mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender and counseling.
Penalty as defined by the State of Rhode Island:

11-37-3  Penalty for first degree sexual assault. – Every person who shall commit sexual assault in the first degree shall be imprisoned for a period not less than ten (10) years and may be imprisoned for life.

§ 11-37-8.2 Penalty for first degree child molestation sexual assault. – Every person who shall commit first degree child molestation sexual assault shall be imprisoned for a period of not less than twenty-five (25) years and may be imprisoned for life.

For a free, confidential consultation contact Attorney Matthew Marin by calling 401-228-8271 or emailing him at [email protected].