The crime of rape generally refers to non-consensual sexual intercourse that is committed by physical force, threat of injury, or other duress. A lack of consent can include the victim’s inability to say “no” to intercourse, due to the effects of drugs or alcohol. Rape can occur when the offender and victim have a pre-existing relationship (sometimes called “date rape”), or even when the offender is the victim’s spouse.

Under a variation known as “statutory rape,” some states make it unlawful for an adult to engage in sexual intercourse with a person who has not reached the age of consent (usually 18 years of age).

At Neff & Sedacca, we know that cases of rape and sexual assault can be challenging and can have implications that affect every aspect of our clients’ lives. The stigma that is associated with someone who has been arrested or charged with a sex crime can be devastating. A criminal conviction for rape or sexual assault will only solidify the damage to that person’s life and reputation, in addition to the criminal penalties that can run to many years of incarceration.

Aggressive Defense Against Accusations of Rape and Sexual Assault

Typically, cases of rape and sexual assault hinge on physical evidence and questions about consent, or lack thereof, between the parties involved. There are many different types of rape, each with its own unique set of circumstances and aspects that must be considered. Some of these include statutory rape, marital or spousal rape and date rape. In each case, the defense that is used may be different depending on the situation and the facts of the case.

In every case, the accurate collection, preservation and testing of the physical evidence in the case is crucial for defending the case. Our firm works with experienced investigators who will evaluate the prosecution’s case. If errors were made in the collection of evidence, we will develop a defense that takes into account those mistakes.

Our office is experienced in defending clients charged with sexually based offenses. Criminal charges and potential convictions have major impacts on a person’s life, the lives of their families and friends, and their futures, so it is imperative that you contact our experienced criminal defense attorneys immediately. Our office is prepared to assist you through this difficult time in your life.

Domestic Violence is defined as any abusive relationship that results in emotional abuse, physical violence, sexual assault, stalking, assault, and/or threatened violence. Charges of domestic violence generally arise through relationships such as spousal, ex-spousal, parent-child, partners, and co-habitants. Domestic violence charges can be classified either as a misdemeanor or a felony, and are punishable by jail/prison time, Emergency Protective Orders, and Temporary Restraining Orders, and other possible penalties.

A charge involving domestic violence will have a major impact on your life and your relationships with those around you. You are entitled to have an attorney fight for you; to help get your life back. Neff & Sedacca has over 30 years of experience representing clients facing all types of criminal charges, including domestic violence.

A person who is a volunteer or an employee of a school or any other person who has direct contact with a student at a school commits a felony of the third degree when he engages in sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse (contact between the sex organs of one person and the mouth or anus of another) or indecent contact with a student of the school.

If convicted, sentencing for sexually related charges can be extreme, including years of incarceration. Even if jail time is not part of the sentence, the Federal Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 made it a requirement that all states implement a sex offender registry. Most offenders, including those who only receive probation, are required to register as a sex offender. Required community notification can continue for life. A sexual offense felony likely means the end of a teaching career.

If you have been accused of sexual misconduct of any kind, do not delay in consulting an attorney. Do not make any statements prior to consulting an attorney.

With so much at stake, you need an experienced and qualified criminal defense lawyer to make sure your rights are protected. At Neff & Sedacca, they use their extensive knowledge of criminal law as well as their experience with hundreds of these types of cases to help those who have been charged with sexual abuse of a minor.

Their attention to important details and their connections with the area’s leading experts result in the strongest legal team. This, together with extensive preparation, are the key to success in these cases.

It doesn’t matter if it has been sent or received, it is a crime in Pennsylvania for teens to “sext.” The possession, transmission, distribution, or dissemination of a nude, or partially nude, image from one person between the ages of 12 and 17 to another of the same age is considered a misdemeanor.

Even if no criminal charges are filed, many schools are working to help students understand the seriousness of what is known as their digital footprint. Images posted on the internet or shared through texts or emails or social networks can easily be forwarded. This causes lasting damage to a teen’s reputation and those teens often feel ashamed and bullied.

Sexting and Pennsylvania Law

The Pennsylvania law, House Bill 815, works on a tiered system and allows juveniles to avoid jail time for sexting offenses. First-time juvenile offenders may avoid prosecution if they agree to attend an educational program.

Intent Matters

Teen sexting may be punished more severely if a nude photo of another teen is shared without the teen’s permission, especially if done so in order to harass or harm the reputation of another. It is important that teens understand that when sexting is used to “get back” at someone. For example, if one teen shares photos of a girlfriend after an argument or a break-up, this could result in a more serious charge.

Sexting and Federal Law

Depending on the circumstances, sexting may also be a crime under federal law.

Consequences

A conviction for teen sexting can have extremely serious consequences. Parents who allow this behavior can also be prosecuted. If you or your child has been charged, you should contact a criminal defense attorney with experience handling such cases.