Fairfax Criminal Defense Attorney Explains: Rape in Virginia
Rape is a common law felony in Virginia. Rape is punishable by up to Life in prison or any term not less than 5 years. If the victim is under the age of 13, the penalty can be mandatory life. If other offenses are committed during the Rape, enhanced penalties also could apply.
Rape is not the only serious sexual assault felony with significant penalties in the Commonwealth. Punished just the same, and with similar elements, are the offenses of Sodomy and Object Sexual Penetration. If any of those acts are accomplished through (or against):
- force, threat, or intimidation
- the use of the victim's mental incapacity or physical helplessness
- a victim under the age of 13 years
the penalties described above are applicable.
To learn more about Rape and other Sexual Assault crimes under Virginia law, click here.
To read about Virginia's Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry, click here.
If you need a seasoned jury trial lawyer, contact Fairfax Criminal Defense Attorney George Freeman today. He has substantial trial experience dealing with violent crimes and sexual assaults.
