South Jersey Rape Defense Lawyer

There are few crimes that carry a harsher penalty, and are more publicly detested, than rape. If you are convicted of rape in New Jersey, you may very well be going to jail for a long time. In addition to the heavy financial impact in terms of fines, the damage to your reputation can have an incredibly devastating long-term impact. Even after you have served your penalty, having a rape conviction on your record will have a significant effect on your chances for landing a good job or housing in the future.

If you’ve been charged with any type of sexual offense, including rape, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. John W. Tumelty has been successfully defending people charged with sexual assault and other violent crimes for more than three decades. He is an aggressive criminal defense lawyer with a keen sense of legal knowledge. You can rely on Mr. Tumelty’s experience – as both a state prosecutor and a long-time criminal defense attorney – to mount a defense that has the best chance of getting your charges downgraded or even dismissed. Mr. Tumelty serves clients all over New Jersey, including Atlantic City, Little Egg Harbor, Brigantine, Margate, Ventnor and Longport.

Sex Crimes Attorney Fights to Protect Your Reputation and Freedom in Wildwood, Margate and Little Egg Harbor

Rape charges are not one-size-fits-all. The severity of the offense can vary widely. For example, an 18-year-old can be charged with statutory rape for having consensual sex with his 15-year-old girlfriend. On the other end of the spectrum, aggravated sexual assault is what most people think of when they hear the word “rape.” For aggravated sexual assault to occur, one of the following circumstances must exist:

• Penetration occurred
• The victim was under the age of 13
• The victim is a family member between the ages of 13 and 16
• The offense occurred simultaneously with another crime, such as robbery, kidnapping or assault
• A weapon, or threat of a weapon, was used in the act
• The act was committed with assistance from another person(s) and force was used
• The victim was disabled or incapacitated in some way

Sexual assault is a crime of the first degree in New Jersey. It carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison. Make no mistake about it: NJ prosecutors look to aggressively convict defendants charged with rape. They push for the most severe penalties and sentencing, as well.

When your freedom is, literally, on the line, you need to choose a criminal defense lawyer who will work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight to keep you out of jail. Mr. Tumelty’s experience as a former prosecutor provides him with valuable insight into both sides of a case. This insight allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s tactics and attack its case against you.

If you or someone you know is facing any type of sexual assault charge, do not delay in obtaining the most experienced legal representation you can choose. John W. Tumelty has three offices in South Jersey. He offers free consultations and will explain your rights and your options either on the phone or in person. Contact him today so he can get started on your case.

John Tumelty Fights All Sexual Assault Charges in Atlantic & Cape May Counties

If you are convicted of sexual assault in the state of New Jersey, you will be required to serve a minimum of five years before parole eligibility. That’s why is critical to hire a battle-tested lawyer who will go to bat for you. You need a criminal defense lawyer who won’t back down from a prosecutor’s aggressive tactics. Contact John W. Tumelty today for a free consultation about your charges.

It’s also important to know that not all sexual assault charges have the same penalties. If you are charged with aggravated sexual assault (rape), Mr. Tumelty will fight tirelessly to get your charges dismissed or attempt win an acquittal in a court trial. However, when that is not possible, getting your charges downgraded to a non-aggravated sexual assault charge may mean that your penalties may be less severe.

If you are convicted of sexual assault, it is a crime of the second degree; you may spend up to 10 years in prison. Sexual assault does not require the use of force. In fact, a 17 year old that has “consensual” sex with a 13 year old can be charged with sexual assault.

Statutory rape charges vary widely, as well. A great deal of significance is put on the relationship between the victim and the defendant. If the victim is related to the defendant, or if the defendant has control over the victim (teacher, police officer, doctor), statutory rape may exist. For example, a 21 year old teacher may be charged with statutory rape for having consensual sex with a 17 year old student. However, if a 21 year old and 17 year old are dating (and the older person does not have “control” over the younger), this may not constitute statutory rape.

These laws are complex and the penalties for conviction are harsh in New Jersey. Don’t delay in contacting a lawyer who will fight for your rights and freedom. Contact Mr. Tumelty immediately for a free consultation about your charges.

If You’ve Been Charged with a Sexual Offense, Contact a Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer Today for Free

For more than 35 years, criminal defense lawyer John W. Tumelty has successfully defended countless clients against charges of sex crimes, including rape. He will help you understand your situation, your rights and your options. Mr. Tumelty helps clients in Stone Harbor, Avalon, Sea Isle City, Wildwood, Cape May and across New Jersey. He handles all types of criminal cases, from traffic violations to homicide. Call today for a free consultation in one of his three conveniently located offices in Atlantic City, Marmora or Somer’s Point.