Being accused of rape is one of the most mortifying, frightening, and intense experiences a person could ever face. Not only will you go to prison for a conviction, but your entire reputation and future prospects are also at stake. A Philadelphia rape defense lawyer at Shuttleworth Law P.C. understands what’s on the line and will provide an aggressive defense that you want.
We’re on YOUR side, regardless of the facts.
The criminal justice system has a job to do and a prescribed way of doing it to mitigate wrongful convictions. If they don’t hold up their end of the deal, even if the evidence seems circumstantially damming, Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq. will point out the prosecutor’s and court’s errors. You’ll have a true champion on your side throughout the entire legal process.
“You should never, ever automatically take responsibility for a crime that: a) you didn’t commit or b) can’t be adequately proven by prosecutors. I have spent years cultivating my knowledge of the complexities surrounding rape defense and possess a strong network of innovative experts who can help. My main objective is to see your charges get dropped, reduced, dismissed, or beat at trial.”
Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq.
Founder & Philadelphia Rape Defense Lawyer, Shuttleworth Law P.C.
Speak with a Philadelphia Rape Defense Lawyer ASAP
If you have been charged with felony rape, contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer at Shuttleworth Law P.C. now. We’ll get you the legal answers you deserve so that you can protect your case early. Call us at 888-529-3486 or message Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq. here for your FREE CASE EVALUATION.
Brad was the ONLY one who facilitated a face to face meeting online over Google Meet. I knew after speaking with him that I wanted him to represent me in this matter. He just seemed very thorough and knowledgeable. A couple of the other attorneys I spoke to had poor responsiveness which is alarming when that happens BEFORE you pay to retain their services. I'm not in the same state as he is but that did not matter.Brad was able to work with the other party and get this issue resolved fairly and quickly.
Thank You!
You can't go wrong with Atty. Shuttleworth.
He's a true professional!
Brad's performance in the trial was swift, calculated, and methodical. In what seemed like just a few minutes, Brad picked apart the claimants case against me, and the judge swiftly ruled in my favor. A year of anxiety gone! Brad is well worth the money spent and I recommend him without reservation.
If you need help Brad is the person to connect with.
He has truly impressed us and he is our go to person If we’re ever in need of his legal assistance again
The Truth About Being Charged With Rape in PA
Rape accusations should never just be thrown around, but they are nearly every day. However, the prosecutors assigned to your case must prove specific elements to get the conviction they want. If they can’t, then you should walk away free.
How the Commonwealth Defines Rape
Rape is a serious felony. It typically involves an allegation that the defendant coerced another person into engaging in sexual intercourse, anal sex, or other sexual activity. It’s also called sexual assault, sexual battery, criminal sexual conduct, and criminal sexual penetration.
Per 18 Pa.C.S. § 3121, you could be convicted of first-degree felony rape if prosecutors can prove that you allegedly engaged in sexual contact with the complainant:
- By force; or
- By force that prevents resistance; or
- Who is unconscious; or
- Who is unknowingly intoxicated; or
- Who suffers from a severe mental disability
- Who is underage
Basically, you’re being accused of having sexual contact with someone who couldn’t legally or physically provide consent.
Here’s the thing: you CAN’T just roll over and accept the charges. Well, in theory, you could, but why would you want to if you have a chance to defend yourself? Have you seen the penalties associated with a rape conviction in Pennsylvania?
Start Protecting Your Case NOW
Shuttleworth Law P.C. defends sex crime charges, such as rape, throughout Pennsylvania and South Jersey. Your Philadelphia rape defense lawyer will try to put your mind to ease as much as possible while initiating casework immediately. You have the right to get information about your case beforehand with a Free Case Evaluation at 888-529-3486.
Pennsylvania Punishes Rape Charges Harshly
Okay, it’s time for some bad news that you probably already expected to hear: Pennsylvania doles out seriously harsh penalties for rape convictions.
Take a look at what’s on the line:
“The penalty for first-degree felony rape in Pennsylvania includes up to twenty (20) years imprisonment and $25,000 in fines with up to an additional ten (10) years and $100,000 in fines when convicted of drugging the complainant.”
So, if someone accuses you of drugging and raping them at a party, you could spend up to the next THREE DECADES IN PRISON and pay up to $125,000 IN FINES. That’s a nearly insurmountable consequence for people who have a clean record, let alone someone with a felony conviction.
Look: As a Philadelphia rape defense law firm, we’re not trying to make you feel worse about what happened.
However, your life is on the line, and this is no time for gaslighting or false promises. You have our word that we will always be straightforward with you. We also pledge our commitment to providing the most strategic defense possible.
Your Rape Charges Are DEFENSIBLE in Court
Rape allegations are serious matters, and unfortunately, many sexual misconduct allegations are not always made in good faith. A person accused of rape or other forms of sexual assault should anticipate a tough legal battle. Shuttleworth Law P.C. will investigate your charges thoroughly and the justice system’s methods to ensure that you don’t accept responsibility for a rape crime that you didn’t commit or goes unproven.
To illustrate how this works, we’ve outlined three examples below describing defenses that have worked for past clients:
Defense Example #1: The Alibi Defense
Were you with someone else or in another location at the time of the alleged attack? This is called the alibi defense, whereby it was impossible for you to commit the crime. Your Philadelphia rape defense lawyer will need to provide advance notice of this defense, so you should speak with one as soon as possible.
Shuttleworth Law P.C. has successfully utilized the alibi defense in past criminal sex cases. Recently, we exonerated clients via electronic data to prove that they were far away from the alleged crime scene.
Defense Example #2: The Consent Defense
Consent is a common defense in sex crime cases involving allegations of rape or other sexual misconduct. In this scenario, you admit to the sexual activity, but you’ll argue that you had their consent. There was no use of force, no threat of force, and no form of coercion.
Rape and other sex crime allegations can range from legitimate complaints to outright fabrications. The majority of rape cases come down to one simple question: was the sexual contact consensual? We have defended a number of clients on the grounds that contact occurred with their consent.
Defense Example #3: The Mental Defense
Under the mental defense, an individual charged with rape may argue that they suffer from a serious mental disorder. Essentially, the disorder makes it difficult or impossible to form criminal intent, thereby absolving or reducing his or her criminal liability. However, there are legal implications associated with this defense to consider with a Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer.
IMPORTANT: DON’T RUIN YOUR POTENTIAL DEFENSE!
It is critical not to discuss the case with the police before speaking with an attorney. They are only interested in obtaining a statement that they can use to establish guilt and make an arrest. It is also critical to avoid discussing rape and other allegations of sexual misconduct with the alleged victim.
If you hire us to represent your case, Shuttleworth Law P.C. will handle all communications on your behalf. We will always give you advance notice and preparation when you need to make an appearance related to the case.
Shuttleworth Law P.C. Has a Proven Track Record of Success
Shuttleworth Law P.C. demonstrates a commitment to client loyalty and a track record of success. When you come to our firm facing rape charges, we will treat you with the empathy, dignity, and respect you deserve. No matter how tough things get, you can count on us to stand by your side through the trial and beyond.
We’ve Won Some Really Tough Criminal Cases
Our firm understands that clients want to put up the best possible defense. When they think of hiring the best Philadelphia rape defense lawyer, they don’t want to hire the guy that just rolls over and pushes for a plea deal.
Rest assured, Shuttleworth Law P.C. is not that kind of firm. Check out how we’ve helped people beat their charges in past cases:
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. C.L.
Ruling: Not Guilty
Client charged with armed robbery of a bank in Philadelphia. The incident was caught on video. Trial was held in front of a judge, and client was found NOT GUILTY of all charges. The defense was mistaken identification. As a criminal defense lawyer in Philadelphia, I take great pride in achieving the most advantageous outcome.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. D.A.
Ruling: Not Guilty
Client was charged with aggravated assault of a correctional officer while in custody at the Detention Center in Philadelphia, PA (part of the Philadelphia Prison System). He testified that he had to punch the correctional officer in self-defense, because he was attacked by two officers. Client was found NOT GUILTY.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. D.C.
Ruling: Not Guilty
Client accused of burglarizing a home at night. A neighbor witness claimed to have seen the burglar and recognized him as client. Witness also claimed he knew client from the neighborhood, which is why he recognized him. Mistaken identification was the defense. Client found NOT GUILTY of all charges.
But let’s not beat around the bush: a plea deal is sometimes the best-case scenario. However, we’ll only use it as a last line of defense. Our main objective is to see you walk away free from your charges.
Past Clients Rave About Our Results
Checking out case results is important for prospective clients. However, it helps to hear about past client experiences to determine if our Philadelphia rape defense attorney is right for you.
Do You Want Legal Advice From a Philadelphia Rape Defense Lawyer?
Seriously consider it if you’re facing rape charges in Pennsylvania or New Jersey.
Our legal team can get you more information about your situation at NO cost or obligation to you. Call Shuttleworth Law P.C. for a Free Case Evaluation now at 888-529-3486 or message Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq. directly via the contact form below. Let us know what we can do to make your experience as discrete as possible since we can meet on your terms by phone, video conference/chat, or in-person at the location of your choosing.
Rape Defense FAQs
No one should ever accept the consequences for a rape that did not happen or goes unproven beyond a reasonable doubt. Shuttleworth Law P.C. will hold them to that standard. Below, our Philadelphia rape defense lawyers have answered a few of your most frequently asked questions (FAQs):
How is rape proven in Pennsylvania?
Rape is proven in Pennsylvania by prosecutors with evidence of specific facts. Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3121, they must show that you engaged in sexual intercourse by force, the threat of force, or while the complainant was unconscious or has a mental disability. However, prosecutors must also prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt, meaning it is on their shoulders to prove that you are guilty.
Does Pennsylvania have rape shield laws?
Pennsylvania rape shield laws restrict your ability to cross-examine complainants. They also prevent you from questioning the victim about past sexual conduct. You are also not allowed to submit evidence that addresses the complainant’s promiscuity either under 225 Pa. Code Rule 412.
What is the penalty for rape in Pennsylvania?
Rape is a first-degree felony in Pennsylvania, which carries severe penalties. Potential penalties for rape include up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.
You could also face an additional amount of time by up to ten years in prison if the complainant was forcefully drugged. For rape of a child under age 13, you could face up to 50 years, while acts involving a serious bodily injury, a life sentence is on the line.
Related Article: What Is the Penalty for Rape in Pennsylvania?
How Do I Learn More About My PA Rape Charges?
The Philadelphia rape defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law P.C. welcome you to learn more about your PA rape charges by scheduling a Free Case Evaluation with our legal team. Request yours now by calling 888-529-3486 or sending us a direct message here.