Norman Rape Defense Attorney

Experienced Defense Against Rape Charges in Oklahoma

Under Oklahoma law, rape is a form of sexual assault and represents what is often viewed to be the most serious of sex crimes. People accused of rape are often lambasted by their peers, trusted friends, society, and the media before the charges even become official. In order to protect themselves and see that justice is not deteriorated, experienced criminal defense representation must be retained.

At the Law Offices of Keith J. Nedwick, P.C., our clients can back their claims and bolster their chances with the tenacious and dedicated counsel of our Norman sex crime attorneys. We believe that our reputation for excellence, which we have built over 50+ years of combined legal experience, precedes us. To learn more about our law firm, or to get started on your case, call (866) 590-8173 today.

Rape Definitions in Oklahoma Law

Oklahoma considers rape to occur under several different circumstances, but only when the sexual acts involve vaginal or anal penetration. Oral penetration or other forms of sexual acts that are conducted without consent generally do not constitute rape but a lesser crime instead.

Rape may be charged if the alleged victim is:

• Under the age of legal consent (16 in Oklahoma).
• Mentally incapable to give consent at the time of sexual intercourse, including due to drugs or alcohol intoxication.
• Forced to consent due to violence or intimidation.
• Unconscious and the alleged offender is aware of their unconsciousness.
• Coerced into sexual acts by someone impersonating their spouse.

The legal definition of rape in Oklahoma does not mention that a lack of consent before engaging in sexual intercourse constitutes rape. In other words, if the alleged victim says “no” but the alleged offender never uses coercion, violence, or intoxicants to eventually engage in sexual activities, rape has not occurred. This clear exemption in the law is often the groundwork of rape defense cases.

Penalties for Rape Convictions in Oklahoma

Rape charges that cite any of the aforementioned factors will usually be charged as a first-degree felony in Oklahoma.

Penalties upon conviction of a first-degree penalty in Oklahoma can include:

• Five years’ minimum sentence
• Life imprisonment without parole
• Capital punishment
• Thousands in fines and restitution

Any person convicted of a serious sex crime in Oklahoma will also need to register to a sex offender list. In cases of violent sexual crimes, such as sexual assault and rape, the public can access the list and see the offenders and where they live. Employers, educational institutions, and landlords can also reject applications from registered sex offenders in certain circumstances. Registry usually lasts for 15 years but can be extended indefinitely by a judge.

Contact Us Today

You can rely on the teamwork approach we take here at the Law Offices of Keith J. Nedwick, P.C. to provide you with a sound and sturdy defense case against rape accusations. We are constantly thinking two steps ahead of the prosecution and reviewing your case from all angles in order to bring you closer to a beneficial case result, such as a dismissal, charge reduction, or not guilty verdict.

You can contact our Normal criminal defense lawyers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – the moment you need help, just call (866) 590-8173!