Have You Been Accused of a Sexual Assault in Rhode Island?
Charged with Sexual Assault in Rhode Island?
Don’t face the legal system alone. Contact the experienced sexual assault defense attorneys at Marin & Murphy Law Firm for a free consultation.
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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.
Why Choose Our Rhode Island Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys:
At Marin & Murphy Law Firm, we are committed to providing aggressive, personalized legal representation for individuals accused of serious charges like sexual assault in Rhode Island. These cases carry severe penalties and long-lasting consequences, even if you’re innocent. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys understand the complexities of sexual assault cases and are prepared to build a robust defense tailored to your specific circumstances. When you choose us to represent you, you can trust that we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of the charges, scrutinizing all evidence, police reports, and witness statements to uncover any discrepancies or exculpatory information.
- Examine the legality of the investigation and arrest, ensuring that your constitutional rights were upheld and challenging any unlawfully obtained evidence.
- Challenge the prosecution’s evidence, including any medical or forensic reports, and work to suppress any improperly gathered or misleading evidence.
- Craft a strategic defense plan based on the specific facts of your case, exploring potential defenses such as consent, mistaken identity, or lack of evidence.
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges when possible, while always preparing your case for trial to ensure your rights are fully protected in court.
- Provide clear and compassionate communication, keeping you informed about every step of your case and offering support during this difficult and stressful time.
Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for your case—whether that means reducing charges, obtaining a dismissal, or achieving an acquittal at trial. We know the devastating impact that a sexual assault charge can have on your life, and we are dedicated to defending your rights with skill, determination, and compassion.
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 the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Rhode Island
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.
