Date rape is not a term defined by Virginia law. It is a colloquial term typically used in a situation where someone is intoxicated but not voluntarily, and is, therefore, unable to consent to a sex act. The phrase is also used when referring to a forcible rape when people are acquainted with each other or on a date. The term is most widely used, however, when intoxication is involved. If these charges pertain to you, it is highly advisable you seek out an experienced Prince William date rape attorney to protect yourself and build a strong defense.
Cases of date rape are complex because it’s often very hard to find or pin down solid evidence in these cases. For example, intoxicants in the victim’s blood that often disappear after a certain period of time, or when someone’s recollection of the incident is unclear. Quite often there is only a person’s testimony on the stand that he or she was raped, but no physical substantiation to support their claim. It certainly depends on the circumstances of the act but often it’s difficult to have tangible evidence other than someone claiming that it happened. The lack of proof or the confusing amount of evidence is a unique aspect of date rape cases and one reason why a date rape lawyer in Prince William is so important.
In Prince William County, date rape cases are treated the same as regular rape cases if somebody was administered an intoxicant, and was coerced into performing a sexual act while out with another person. He or she will still be charged with rape and will face the same penalties, five years to life in prison.
Someone may avert from hiring a lawyer in a date rape case because he or she may be concerned with how that may look, and what other people may think or believe. A person may also be concerned that if a Prince William date rape attorney is hired, this is an admission of guilt, or because the individual knows they are innocent, they believe hiring a lawyer is unnecessary. It is highly recommended hiring a date rape lawyer when facing these charges because they are going to be able to help a person handle the case justly, regardless of what it might look like to someone else.
If you are facing this charge in Prince William County, it is paramount to hire a Prince William date rape attorney immediately. A lawyer will be able to help an individual understand the importance of limiting information given to officers that may be used against them, such as trying to explain his or her version of the event which could potentially incriminate the individual. An attorney can also help discover, or preserve evidence that can many times disappear or vanish. For example, if there’s a situation where there could be conflicting DNA evidence or there is an indication of someone else committing the offense, you need an attorney to ensure nothing is jeopardized.