Indiana Rape Defense Lawyers

Fighting for Your Future & Freedom

If you are being questioned by law enforcement or facing a formal charge of rape, you need serious and committed legal help. A conviction could be devastating to your life. At Bleile & Dawson, we have extensive experience with this scenario, and as a law firm singularly dedicated to sex crime defense, we know what to do.

Calling our firm should be your first order of business so that our seasoned legal team can immediately get to work on your behalf. We can protect your rights, speak for you, conduct an intensive investigation into the matter, and use our skills to ensure that you are fairly treated as we build your defense and fight for your future.

Call Bleile & Dawson today at (812) 747-9771 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our rape defense attorneys in Indiana!

Rape Charges in Indiana 

Under Indiana law, rape occurs when you knowingly or intentionally force another person to engage in sexual intercourse or some type of sexual conduct.

The charge of rape must involve one of the following:

• Force or the threat of force
• No awareness on the part of the victim that it occurred (such as when passed out from drugs or alcohol)
• The victim is mentally disabled to such a degree that he or she cannot give consent

Rape is charged as a Level 3 felony, punishable by a minimum of three years in prison. It is charged as a Level 1 felony if the act involves the use of a deadly weapon, serious bodily injury to the victim, or the use of drugs. The Level 1 felony carries a prison term of 20 years.

What are the Penalties for Rape in Indiana?

The penalties for rape in Indiana are severe and vary based on the specifics of the case. The consequences can include:

• Class A Felony: If the rape involves force or is committed with aggravating factors, it is classified as a Class A felony. This can result in:
  • Prison Sentence: Up to 30 years
  • Fine: Up to $10,000
• Sex Offender Registration: Required registration as a sex offender
• Class B Felony: If the rape involves a victim who is incapacitated but no force is used, it is classified as a Class B felony. This can result in:
  • Prison Sentence: Up to 20 years
  • Fine: Up to $10,000
• Sex Offender Registration: Required registration as a sex offender
• Class C Felony: If the rape involves a minor or other specific circumstances, it may be classified as a Class C felony. This can result in:
  • Prison Sentence: Up to 8 years
  • Fine: Up to $5,000
  • Sex Offender Registration: Required registration as a sex offender

Defenses Against Rape Charges

If you are facing rape charges, several potential defenses may be available to challenge the prosecution's case. Some common defenses include:

• Consent: Demonstrating that the sexual activity was consensual and that consent was given voluntarily.  
• False Allegations: Showing that the accusations are unfounded, possibly driven by personal grievances or other motives.  
• Mistaken Identity: Providing evidence that you are not the perpetrator, such as an alibi.  
• Insufficient Evidence: Arguing that the evidence does not meet the burden of proof required to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  

An experienced Indiana rape lawyer can help assess the specifics of your case and determine the most effective defense strategy.

Contact Our Indiana Rape Defense Attorneys Today

Our legal team will not be deterred, no matter how grim your case may appear. We can thoroughly review all aspects of your case, looking for the holes in the prosecution’s case. Our firm can challenge anything weak or compromised in the investigation, evidence, police findings, and medical reports. As time-tested trial lawyers, we are also highly skilled at cross-examining witnesses.

Because of our proven skills and case results, we highly recommend bringing your case to Bleile & Dawson. Let us fight for you with the drive, ability, and commitment for which we are known.

Contact Bleile & Dawson today to schedule a meeting with our rape defense lawyers in Indiana!