Under Massachusetts law, rape is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with another person by compelling them to submit through force and against their will, or by threat of bodily injury. This includes both natural and unnatural sexual intercourse, encompassing acts such as oral and anal penetration. The law recognizes that consent obtained through coercion or threats is not valid.
To secure a conviction for rape in Massachusetts, the prosecution must establish the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
Massachusetts imposes severe penalties for rape convictions:
Additionally, individuals convicted of rape are required to register as sex offenders.
With years of specialized experience, The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has established itself as the go-to Boston criminal defense attorney in Massachusetts.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
If you are facing rape charges in Massachusetts, immediate action is crucial. The legal system is complex, and the consequences of a conviction are severe, including lengthy imprisonment and mandatory sex offender registration. Delaying legal representation can compromise your defense and limit your options. It’s imperative to consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney who can navigate the intricacies of Massachusetts law and advocate on your behalf.
“Force” refers to physical force or the threat of bodily harm used to compel the victim to engage in sexual intercourse against their will.
Consent is a complex issue in rape cases. While lack of consent is a key element, Massachusetts law does not define “consent” explicitly. However, if the prosecution proves that the act was compelled by force or threat, the presence of consent may not be a valid defense.
The statute of limitations for rape varies depending on the circumstances. For example, charges can be filed at any time if the victim was under 16 at the time of the offense.
Yes, individuals with prior convictions for similar offenses may face enhanced penalties, including longer prison terms.
Yes, individuals convicted of rape are required to register as sex offenders in Massachusetts.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02108 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links