Rape Solicitors.

Rape is a serious offence that involves non-consensual and sexual penetration. To be charged with rape the following criteria must be met:

• A man intentionally penetrates someone’s vagina, anus, or mouth with their penis.
• It must be non-consensual.
• The alleged must believe it to be non-consensual.

If the act does not fall under these criteria, it can still be classed as a separate sexual offence (i.e. sexual assault). For more information on sexual assault, please see our sexual assault page.

By law, a woman cannot commit rape. They can be charged for assisting in rape, but not for committing the actual offence. Instead, if they commit an act of sexual penetration, they will be charged with assault by penetration. This offence is just as serious as rape.

No – regardless of your case, everyone is entitled to legal representation under questioning by the police. If you are questioned without the presence of a qualified rape solicitor, refuse to speak with the police until they arrive.

It is imperative that you act quickly when faced with a rape charge. Employing the assistance of a rape solicitor early on can assist with police questioning and evidence analysis.

Rape is an indictable offence, meaning a charge will always be taken before the Crown Court. The Crown Court has increased sentencing powers and the verdict will be decided by a jury. Typically, most convictions are met with some form of a prison sentence.

The maximum sentence for rape is life imprisonment.

As all cases are different, the court will look into other factors when determining a sentence. These include:

• Your past offences.
• Your level of remorse.
• Whether you have any severe medical conditions that require long term, urgent or intensive treatment.
• Whether you have a learning disability or a mental disorder.
• The age of the person involved and whether they are a vulnerable person.

If you are falsely accused of rape, contact a solicitor immediately. Anything you say could be self-incriminating and could strengthen the false claim against you.

The ramifications that a rape charge can have on your life are immeasurable. A conviction will damage your life and career beyond repair, so a charge should not be taken lightly.

Rape cases are very serious, alongside being very complicated and legally technical. Our rape solicitors are experienced in a variety of sexual offence cases and can offer you extensive support throughout your specific case.

By consulting a rape solicitor from Britton and Time, we will ensure you have:

• Police station representation.
• The best possible defence for your case.
• A professional with experience in dealing with criminal defence cases.
• An understanding of your standpoint and available options.
• The knowledge to reduce potentially damaging impacts on your future.

Our rape solicitors cannot offer legal aid in any capacity as we lack the necessary legal aid certificate. We also don’t offer pro bono work at present.