Sexual assault allegations are not to be taken lightly. Joseph D. Lento, sexual assault defense attorney in Philadelphia, has been representing clients accused of the same for more than a decade. He understands what's at stake, and it's not just jail or prison and/or fines, but your reputation and future quality of your life. Contact Joseph D. Lento today to discuss your case and to get started on a strong defense.
What is sexual assault in Philadelphia?
According to 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3124.1, sexual assault in Pennsylvania is a sex crime that happens when one person engages in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual intercourse with another person but without that person's consent. Sexual intercourse includes vaginal, oral, and anal sex, but penetration can be slight and emission is not required. Deviate sexual intercourse includes intercourse with an animal or a foreign object.
With regard to consent, defendants often get accused of sexual assault because the other partner was unable to properly consent. Many times the partner is unable to consent due to drugs or alcohol – you should know that the latter is not a defense.
What is the punishment if convicted of sexual assault in Philadelphia?
Sexual assault is a felony of the second degree, which means if convicted, you could face up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
If convicted, you will forever be listed on Pennsylvania's sex offender registry.
Further, sexual assault is often accompanied by other charges, like rape and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse. Rape is a felony of the first degree and additional penalties may apply depending on the circumstances. Deviate sexual intercourse is a felony of the first degree, too, and depending on the facts and circumstances, a convicted person can face up to 40 years or life in prison.
Are there any defenses to a sexual assault charge in Philadelphia?
In your defense, much of it will come down to strategy. Joseph D. Lento may use pre-trial motions strategically to effectively show that the police or other law enforcement agents violated a person's constitutional rights. Sometimes, when rights are violated, evidence can be suppressed.
Attorney Joseph D. Lento will also challenge the forensic evidence, when appropriate. Oftentimes forensic evidence is unreliable because it was not obtained or handled properly. Joseph D. Lento will also challenge the credibility of the witness when appropriate and necessary. In many of these types of cases, the case comes down to he said/she said and a jury will have to decide who to believe.
Philadelphia Sexual Assault Defense Attorney
A sexual assault conviction is serious and time is of the essence. You need an attorney now before you think about talking to the police and providing your side of the story or taking any type of polygraph test. Joseph D. Lento will listen to what you have to say, outline your options, and help you make the best decisions for you and your future.
Contact the Lento Law Firm today either online or at 215-535-5353 to set up a consultation and learn more about how Joseph D. Lento may be able to help your sexual assault case in Philadelphia.
