Jo-Anna Nieves
Founding Attorney
Alameda County Date Rape Lawyer
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Date rape is a colloquial term to describe somebody raping an individual who is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Under these circumstances, the intoxicated individual is unable to give consent, leading to allegations of sexual assault.
This is a very serious sex crime that requires the assistance of an experienced defense attorney, especially one with a track record of defending sex crimes. An Alameda County date rape lawyer could help you fight these allegations and maintain your innocence.
The primary difference in a date rape case compared to another sexual assault allegation is there needs to be the presence of an intoxicating substance. This could be any controlled or anesthetic substance that could cause an effect that can prevent somebody from resisting an assault. Another unique element is that the defendant needs to either have known or should have known that the effect of this substance was preventing resistance.
Unfortunately, these cases can be difficult to secure credible evidence. A lot of the time, one or both of the people involved do not remember what happened due to the use of intoxicating substances. This means that a local lawyer must rely on physical evidence rather than testimony of a date rape.
Assuming the person reports the rape quickly enough, he or she would do a medical analysis to search for bodily fluids and semen, as well as DNA tests on those substances to determine who committed the sexual act – typically called a “SART Exam.” However, that does not help with the issue of consent. In other words, whether or not the interaction was a consensual.
Other physical evidence an attorney might look for are surveillance cameras, receipts from bars or clubs, and witness statements to piece together a timeline. This includes determining what substances and how much of them the involved parties took and developing a strong defense based off this information.
Someone convicted of raping someone who was under the influence would face up to eight years in prison, sex offender registration, and serious immigration consequences. Generally, the penalties for a date rape are the same as for other sexual assault cases, unless it involves a minor. However, one difference is that a date rape conviction is not considered a violent felony although it is still considered a serious felony and a strike and can result in lifetime sex offender registration. It is important to work with a skilled defense attorney in Alameda County when facing date rape allegations.
There is a lot an experienced attorney could do to help early on in the process if somebody is accused of date rape. This includes preserving evidence, suppressing inadmissible evidence, securing exculpatory testimony, and building a strong defense against these allegations.
This is a serious crime that could have devastating personal and professional implications if convicted, and the prosecution will do everything in their power to reach a guilty verdict. Therefore, you should be sure to enlist the trustworthy guidance of an Alameda County date rape lawyer.
Our team of hardworking attorneys could work hard to protect your best interests. Call today and schedule your initial case consultation for free.
The Nieves Law Firm is dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense representation to working professionals who have found themselves in trouble with the law. We show up to win, and we’re not afraid to fight aggressively to accomplish our client’s goals.
We understand that being accused of a crime can be a scary and confusing experience. That’s why we take the stress off our clients by handling the full scope of their legal situation from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Our bilingual attorneys and staff are here to ensure that our clients feel heard and understood every step of the way.
As one of the largest criminal defense teams in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area, we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases. Our experienced team examines various aspects of your case and, perhaps most importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and their future. We take the time to learn about their goals and priorities so that we can achieve an outcome that allows them to move past their mistakes and focus on the future they want. When you work with us, you become part of our team.
Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. With a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of successful cases, our lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
When facing a criminal charge, having dedicated and experienced attorneys on your side is critical. At The Nieves Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and our criminal defense attorneys provide unwavering support and legal guidance.
From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize your well-being and legal interests. Our criminal lawyers are with you every step of the way, from arrest to hearings and beyond, to ensure that your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes or any other allegation, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight vigorously on your behalf.
We believe in the power of collaboration and will actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your defense. Our goal is not only to navigate the legal complexities but also to provide you with the peace of mind and reassurance you deserve during this challenging time.
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Successful Immigration-Safe Resentencing
Case Dismissed after Completion of Deferred Entry of Judgment
Case Dismissed after Completion of Drug Court
All Charges Dismissed and Property Ordered to be Returned to Client
Deferred Entry of Judgment
Case Dismissed
Case Dismissed without Trial
Motion to Vacate Granted
Restraining Order Denied and Sealed
Both Cases Dismissed Prior to Trial
No Charges Filed
No Criminal Charges Filed & Detention
