Cleveland Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer

What Prosecutors Must Prove

To convict someone of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, prosecutors must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. In plain English, the state generally must prove:

• The alleged victim was under 16
• The accused was 18 or older
• Sexual conduct occurred as defined by Ohio law
• The accused acted knowingly

The burden of proof is on the prosecution. The defense does not have to prove innocence. The state must prove guilt with admissible, reliable evidence.

Related Charges We Frequently Defend

Statutory rape allegations often lead to additional or related charges, such as:

• Gross sexual imposition
• Sexual imposition
• Rape (in cases involving alleged force or impairment)
• Importuning
• Solicitation of a minor
• Online sex crimes
• Disseminating harmful material to a minor
• Pandering obscenity involving a minor
• Failure to register as a sex offender

A skilled defense attorney must evaluate not only the main charge, but also how prosecutors may attempt to add or enhance counts.

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