Sex Crimes

Massachusetts recognizes multiple sex crime charges based on the nature of the conduct, the age of the alleged victim, and the presence of force or coercion. Each charge carries different elements that prosecution must prove and different potential consequences.

Rape
‍Sexual intercourse or unnatural sexual intercourse compelled by force and against the victim’s will Up to 20 years in state prison for first offense Life sentence possible for second offense 10-year mandatory minimum if committed with a firearm

Learn more: Rape Charges Defense

‍Aggravated Rape Rape that results in serious bodily injury to the victim Rape committed during commission of other serious felonies Life sentence or any term of years in state prison Cannot be continued without finding or placed on file

‍Statutory Rape (Rape of a Child) Sexual intercourse with person under age 16 Consent is not a defense under Massachusetts law Life sentence or any term of years in state prison Massachusetts has no “Romeo and Juliet” exception

‍Aggravated Rape of a Child Forcible rape of child under 16 with serious bodily injury or during commission of other felonies 10-year mandatory minimum sentence Life sentence or any term of years possible Enhanced penalties if victim under 12 or defendant is mandated reporter

‍Indecent Assault and Battery (Person 14 or Older) Intentional touching that is indecent under common understanding Victim must be 14 years old or older Up to 5 years in state prison, or up to 2½ years in house of correction Up to 10 years if victim is elderly or disabled

Learn more: Indecent Assault and Battery Charges Defense

‍Indecent Assault and Battery on Child Under 14 Indecent touching of child under age 14 Child legally incapable of consenting under Massachusetts law Up to 10 years in state prison, or up to 2½ years in house of correction Cannot be continued without finding or placed on file

‍Child Pornography Offenses Possession, dissemination, or production of visual material depicting minors in sexual conduct Different statutes cover possessing, distributing, and creating such material First offense: up to 5 years state prison or 2½ years house of correction, fines $1,000-$10,000 Second offense: 5-year mandatory minimum, fines $5,000-$20,000 Third offense: 10-year mandatory minimum, fines $10,000-$30,000

Learn more: Child Pornography Charges Defense

‍Internet Sex Crimes Enticement of child under 16 for sexual purposes Dissemination of harmful material to minors Online solicitation or communication with minors for sexual purposes Penalties vary based on specific conduct and charges filed Often involves electronic evidence and forensic analysis

Learn more: Internet Sex Crimes Defense

Sex crime convictions in Massachusetts carry some of the harshest penalties in criminal law. Understanding what you’re facing helps you make informed decisions about your defense.

Criminal Penalties: Depending on the specific charge, you could face anywhere from 2½ years in a house of correction to life in state prison. Many sex offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences that judges cannot reduce. Second and subsequent offenses often carry enhanced penalties including life sentences.

Sex Offender Registration: Perhaps the most significant collateral consequence is mandatory registration with the Massachusetts Sex Offender Registry Board (SORB). Registration can be for 20 years or life, depending on your classification level. Your photo, name, address, and offense details become publicly searchable, affecting where you can live, work, and maintain relationships. SORB classification hearings are separate from criminal proceedings and require experienced representation.

These consequences can feel overwhelming, and they are serious. But with experienced legal representation, outcomes vary dramatically. Not every accusation results in conviction, and not every conviction results in the maximum penalty.

Employment, housing, and professional licensing are often permanently affected. Immigration consequences can include deportation for non-citizens. These stakes make immediate, experienced representation essential.

Sex crime allegations are often more complicated than they first appear. As rape defense attorneys with extensive Massachusetts trial experience, we know that every case has unique circumstances, and multiple defense strategies may apply to your situation.

Consent: In cases involving adults, consent can be a complete defense. We investigate the circumstances surrounding the encounter, including communications, witness accounts, and the alleged victim’s actions before and after the incident.

False Accusations: Unfortunately, false allegations of sexual assault do occur. Motives can include custody disputes, relationship conflicts, regret after the fact, or outside pressure. We thoroughly investigate the accuser’s background, statements, and potential motivations.

Mistaken Identity: In stranger assault cases, misidentification is a real possibility. We challenge identification procedures, examine lineup protocols, and investigate alibi evidence.

Insufficient Evidence: Prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond reasonable doubt. We scrutinize the evidence for gaps, inconsistencies, and weaknesses that create reasonable doubt.

Constitutional Violations: Evidence obtained through illegal searches, coerced statements, or other constitutional violations may be suppressed. We file motions to exclude improperly obtained evidence.

Credibility Issues: Many sex crime cases hinge entirely on testimony without physical evidence. We examine the alleged victim’s statements for inconsistencies, investigate their credibility, and present evidence that contradicts their account.

Every case is different. What works depends entirely on your specific facts, your evidence, and your circumstances. Early investigation, preservation of evidence, and experienced legal representation make the difference between favorable outcomes and worst-case scenarios.

Don't face this alone — contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore your defense options.