Potential Consequences of a Rape Conviction

Depending on the severity of the charge, a conviction for rape in Binghamton may be punishable by anywhere from probation to twenty-five years in prison. In addition to carrying potentially life-changing prison sentences and labelling you as a felon, any conviction for any level of rape would require you to register as a sex offender.

Upon release from prison, you would have to register with a state agency, be prohibited from living in many locations, and be unable to hold certain jobs. Given how permanent and life-altering these penalties may be, it may be essential that you take every step possible to prevent this from happening.

Laws Concerning Rape in Binghamton

Any time a person forces another to engage in penetrative sex, they may be found guilty of rape. However, there are three classes of rape charges under New York Penal Law, each of which represents a different degree of severity based on the circumstances of the rape as well as the identity of the alleged victim. As such, the available penalties for a rape conviction also vary.

Rape in the First Degree

The most serious version of rape, Rape in the First Degree, is defined by New York Penal Code §130.35 as when a person uses physical force or the threat of it to coerce another into sex. It also applies when a person has sex with another who is physically helpless, or whenever any person has sex with another who is under the age of eleven. Rape in the First Degree is a class B felony.

Rape in the Second Degree

A charge of Rape in the Second Degree is a class D felony that applies whenever any person eighteen years of age or older has sex with another who is under the age of fifteen. NYPL §130.30 also defines second-degree rape as any sexual intercourse with a person who cannot consent due to a mental disability.

Rape in the Third Degree

Rape in the Third Degree, the least serious version of rape under New York Penal Law, is still a class E felony. NYPL §130.25 defines this crime as when a person has sexual intercourse with another who cannot consent for any reason other than age. A person over the age of twenty-one is also guilty of third-degree rape if they have sex with a person under the age of seventeen.

Get Help from a Binghamton Rape Attorney

When facing allegations of rape, even for the less serious versions of the charge, you should act immediately to protect yourself and your best interests. Every type of rape conviction in the State of New York is a felony that will likely result in a lengthy prison sentence. In addition, all people convicted of rape are required to register as a sex offender.

The stakes in these cases are high, but a Binghamton rape lawyer from Tully Rinckey PLLC may be able to help you avoid this outcome. Our legal team is experienced in the prosecution, defense, and even judging of criminal charges in New York, and they could work with you to analyze the prosecution’s case and develop a strategy aimed at avoiding a conviction. Call (607) 722-1520 or email info@tullylegal.com to get in touch with our Binghamton office and schedule a consultation.

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