Sexual Assault Defense

Pennsylvania law categorizes sexual offenses into different classifications based on the nature of the alleged conduct and the circumstances involved. The most common charges include:

Sexual Assault (18 Pa. C.S. § 3124.1)

A person commits sexual assault when they engage in sexual intercourse or other sexual acts without the victim’s consent. Unlike rape, this charge does not require proof of force or threat.

Penalties for Sexual Assault:

• Classified as a felony of the second-degree
• Punishable by up to 10 years in prison and significant fines

Rape (18 Pa. C.S. § 3121)

Rape is the most serious sexual offense and involves sexual intercourse carried out through force, threat, unconsciousness, intoxication, or when the victim is incapable of consent.

Penalties for Rape:

• Classified as a felony of the first-degree
• This can result in up to 20 years in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration

Indecent Assault involves inappropriate sexual contact without consent, including groping or unwanted touching for sexual purposes.

Penalties for Indecent Assault:

• Can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances
• May include prison time, fines, and mandatory sex offender registration

Statutory Sexual Assault (18 Pa. C.S. § 3122.1)

Statutory sexual Assault occurs when an adult engages in sexual activity with a minor under the legal age of consent, even if the interaction appears consensual.

Penalties for Statutory Sexual Assault:

• Charged as a felony, with penalties increasing based on the age difference
• This can lead to extended prison time and mandatory registration as a sex offender