Rape and Attempted Rape Allegations
Facing allegations of rape or attempted rape can be overwhelming and distressing. DPP Law’s sexual offence solicitors offer expert guidance, robust representation, and complete confidentiality throughout your case.
You may face rape or attempted rape allegations if you are believed to have sexually penetrated, or attempted to penetrate, an individual without their consent.
DPP Law will always take claims of false rape accusations very seriously. When contesting a rape allegation, our specialists will examine all evidence, forensics and witness statements in a bid to create a powerful defence.
DNA evidence may exonerate you in certain circumstances, but if you have copies of text messages or emails between yourself and the accuser or any video or audio files – including recorded phone calls – that strongly suggest that there was consent for the act, this could be also considered extremely valuable evidence of your innocence.
If found guilty, those accused of rape may face a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
In connection with rape, sexual offence charges include:
- Attempted rape
- Penetration with a foreign object
- Marital or relationship rape
- Date rape
- Aggravated rape
- Child rape
- “Revenge” rape
In responding to false rape allegations, the experts at DPP understand that it is extremely important for the defence to be able to provide strong evidence either:
- That the act was undertaken with consent throughout, or
- That you did not perform the act at all.
What constitutes attempted rape?
A person can be accused of attempted rape if they clearly intended to sexually penetrate the victim without consent, but did not succeed at the time in question.
What is the sentence for attempted rape?
Whether the charge is that of rape or of attempted rape, the maximum sentence is life imprisonment. A custodial sentence is inevitable if a person is found guilty of attempted rape, with the minimum sentence usually sitting at 3-5 years.
What does statutory rape mean?
This refers to the act of engaging in sexual intercourse with an individual below the legal age of sexual consent (16 years of age in the UK). Sentences for this offence can reach life in prison.
When you choose DPP Law for legal assistance and representation, you will be assured:
- Guaranteed confidentiality at all times
- A comprehensive check of forensics and evidence records
- Sensitive expert advice – first consultation FREE
Rape is one of the most serious crimes a person can be tried for, so false rape claims can be highly destructive. Your defence should be as strong as possible to ensure a fair verdict. Get in touch with DPP Law’s sexual offence solicitors as soon as possible to discuss your position and begin working with them on methods to defend against rape allegations.
FAQs
Extremely serious. These offences carry some of the highest penalties in UK criminal law, often involving lengthy prison sentences, placement on the sex offenders register, and long-term reputational consequences. Even the investigation alone can have a major impact on your life.
Seek specialist legal advice immediately and do not attend a police interview without a solicitor. Early advice is crucial in protecting your rights, preparing for interview, and ensuring you do not accidentally weaken your defence.
Yes. Many cases proceed with no forensic or physical evidence. Charges can be brought based solely on the complainant’s account if the CPS believes it is credible and there is a realistic prospect of conviction.
Defences often focus on consent, challenging the credibility or accuracy of the allegation, exposing inconsistencies, or showing the events could not have happened as described. The defence depends entirely on the facts and evidence in the case.
This is a common scenario. The issue becomes whether you reasonably believed consent was given. Evidence such as messages, behaviour before and after the encounter, and witness accounts can be important in establishing consent and challenging the allegation.
Rape involves non-consensual penetration with a penis. Sexual assault covers intentional, non-consensual sexual touching. Both are serious offences, but rape carries higher maximum penalties.