SEATTLE RAPE AND INDECENT LIBERTIES ATTORNEYS – 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

RAPE UNDER WASHINGTON LAW

Washington defines rape as forcible sexual intercourse without the other person’s consent. Sexual intercourse is defined as penetration (anal, oral, or vaginal) by a penis, tongue, finger, or an inanimate object, however slight. Note that the force used in the “forcible sexual intercourse” can be physical or emotional. Some examples of emotional force include threats, intimidation, and coercion.

There are three different degrees of rape under Washington Law – first, second and third.

Rape in the First Degree is when a person commits a rape, and in doing so, either:

Uses a weapon or threatens with a weapon;
Kidnaps the victim;
Inflicts serious physical injury; or,
Enters a building or car where the victim is located

Rape in the First Degree is a Class A felony that is punishable by up to life in prison, and/or a $50,000 fine.

Rape in the Second Degree is when a person commits rape and either:

The defendant uses “forcible compulsion;” or,
The victim is incapable of consent because he or she is physically helpless, mentally incapacitated or developmentally disabled.

“Forcible compulsion” means physical force which overcomes resistance, or a threat, (express or implied) that places a person in fear: of death or physical injury to herself or himself or another person; or, in fear that she or he or another person will be kidnapped.

Rape in the Second Degree is a Class A felony that is punishable by up to life in prison, and/or a $50,000 fine.

Rape in the Third Degree is when a person commits rape and either:

The victim’s lack of consent was expressed by words or conduct; or,
The defendant threatened substantial harm to the victim’s property.

Rape in the Third Degree is a Class C felony punishable by five years in prison, and/or a $10,000 fine.

REACH OUT

INDECENT LIBERTIES UNDER WASHINGTON LAW

There are two elements to the crime of indecent liberties. These are:

The defendant engaged in forcible sexual contact without the victim’s consent; and,
Either the defendant used “forcible compulsion,” or, the victim was incapable of consent because he or she was physically helpless, mentally incapacitated, or developmentally disabled.

The definition of “sexual contact” is any touching of the sexual or other intimate parts of a person done for the purpose of gratifying the sexual desire of either party or a third party. The definition of “forcible compulsion” is the same as used for rape.

Indecent liberties is a Class A felony punishable by up to life in prison, and/or a $50,000 fine.

EXPERIENCED DEFENSE AGAINST SERIOUS SEX CRIME CHARGES IN WASHINGTON

Being accused of rape or indecent liberties can change your life in an instant. These allegations often lead to aggressive investigations, felony charges, lengthy prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, and lasting damage to your reputation and career. Even before a case reaches trial, an accusation alone can have devastating personal and professional consequences.

If you have been arrested or believe you are under investigation for rape, indecent liberties, or another sex offense, you should contact an experienced Seattle criminal defense attorney immediately. The sooner you obtain legal representation, the better your chances of protecting your rights and building a strong defense.

At Black & Askerov, our attorneys have decades of combined experience defending clients charged with serious felony offenses throughout Washington. We provide strategic, confidential, and aggressive representation at every stage of the criminal process.

WHY EARLY LEGAL REPRESENTATION MATTERS

Many rape and indecent liberties cases begin long before an arrest is made. Law enforcement may contact you requesting an interview or ask you to “tell your side of the story.”

Before speaking with investigators, you should consult an attorney.

Statements made during an investigation can later be used against you, even if you believe you are helping to clear up a misunderstanding. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, protect your constitutional rights, and help avoid mistakes that could negatively affect your case.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

We serve clients throughout Washington including those in the following localities:

King County including Bellevue, Kent, and Seattle
Benton County including Kennewick
Chelan County including Wenatchee
Clallam County including Port Angeles
Grays Harbor County including Aberdeen
Kitsap County including Port Orchard
Kittitas County including Ellensburg
Pierce County including Tacoma
Skagit County including Mount Vernon
Snohomish County including Everett
Spokane County including Spokane
Thurston County including Olympia
Whatcom County including Bellingham
Yakima County including Yakima