Age of consent a major factor in statutory rape cases

Statuary rape is the act of having sexual relations with someone below the age of consent. According to the law, people below a certain age cannot consent to having sexual relations. Each state defines its own age of consent. The age of consent in the state of Louisiana is seventeen.

Statuary rape is the act of having sexual relations with someone below the age of consent. According to the law, people below a certain age may not consent to having sexual relations. Each state defines its own age of consent. The age of consent in the state of Louisiana is seventeen.

Statuary rape is different from all other types of rape. It does not involve the use of force to start sexual relations. Underage participants might consent to having sexual relations with the adult. But in eyes of the law, anyone who is below a certain age cannot comprehend what they are agreeing to. This means that sexual relations become a crime even if the underage person has given consent. If force has also been used, the prosecution might add further charges in the hopes of getting a guilty verdict.

The penalty for statuary rape depends on two important factors: the age of the victim and the age difference between the two people. If the victim is of a particularly lesser age, the perpetrator might be charged with a first degree felony. But if the victim is older, but not yet at the age of consent, the charges might differ. The age difference between those involved plays a major role in determining the penalties for the offender. A large age difference means the defendant is likely to be charged with multiple felonies. Some states have created ‘Romeo and Juliet’ laws for cases in which both the victim and defendant are below the age of consent.

Being charged with statuary rape might have severe consequences. You might have to spend several years in prison. Even if you manage to get out early, the charges will follow you for the rest of your life. You may want to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to handle your case and prove your innocence.