Statutory Rape Defense Attorney in Statesboro, GA

Dedicated Legal Representation When Your Future Is on the Line

Statutory rape charges in Georgia are serious criminal allegations that can carry life-altering consequences. The legal, personal, and professional consequences can follow you for a lifetime. At Gabe T. Cliett P.C., we offer more than just courtroom representation. With decades of legal experience and deep local insight, we provide straightforward, strategic defense for those accused in Bulloch County and its surrounding communities. 

If you've been accused of statutory rape in Statesboro, you need more than just a defense attorney. You need a legal team that understands Georgia's complex sex crime statutes, the local judicial system, and how to challenge serious allegations with clarity, confidence, and skill.

If you're under investigation or have already been charged, don't wait – call (912) 274-7752 or complete our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We're available 24/7 and ready to begin working on your defense.

What Is Statutory Rape Under Georgia Law?

Under Georgia law, O.C.G.A. § 16-6-3, statutory rape is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 16, who is not your spouse. Because the law presumes that minors below this age are legally incapable of giving valid consent, factors like the younger person's willingness or perceived maturity are irrelevant in court.

Statutory rape is a serious felony, but the penalties vary based on the age of the accused:

• If the accused is 21 or older: The penalty is 10 to 20 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 10 years served before parole eligibility.
• If the accused is under 21: The penalty is 1 to 20 years in prison.

Georgia law also includes a critical provision known as the “Romeo and Juliet” exception. If the alleged victim is 14 or 15 years old, and the accused is 18 years old or younger and no more than four years older than the victim, the charge may be treated as a misdemeanor instead of a felony. This distinction is vital, as it can mean the difference between a lifelong felony record and a more manageable outcome.

The team at Gabe T. Cliett P.C. will analyze every detail of your case to determine if mitigating circumstances apply and whether the prosecution's evidence meets the burden required for a conviction. We'll explore every possibility to build a strong defense, tailored to the details of your case.

Beyond Statutory Rape: Understanding Related Charges and Consequences

While statutory rape has a specific definition, clients often face overlapping accusations such as child molestation, sexual battery, or enticing a child for indecent purposes. These offenses carry their own severe consequences, including mandatory sentencing, lifetime sex offender registration, and a public stigma that begins the moment an accusation is made.

It's important to understand that Georgia's sexual offense laws are not only complex but are also prosecuted aggressively. A key point in many statutory rape cases is that a conviction cannot be based solely on the unsupported testimony of the alleged victim; the State must present corroborating evidence. Your defense team must be prepared to challenge every piece of evidence and procedure.

We take the time to educate you on what each accusation means, what penalties are attached, and how we can respond proactively to protect your rights.

Building a Strategic Defense Against Statutory Rape Charges

A strong statutory rape defense isn't built on generalities – it's built on precision. We start with a full case review during your free consultation, gathering timelines, documentation, and communication records. From there, we examine the credibility of the evidence, look for inconsistencies in witness accounts, and explore whether your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation. 

We tailor our defense based on the specifics of your situation, which may include:

• Challenging the prosecution's corroborating evidence.
• Investigating motives behind false allegations or misidentification.
• Scrutinizing digital evidence, such as text messages and social media history, for context that supports your case.

Our firm's focused caseload allows us to deliver highly personalized service. We keep you informed and involved so that no legal move is made without your understanding and consent.

Why Choose Gabe T. Cliett P.C. as Your Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer in Statesboro

Our firm's commitment to your case goes beyond standard representation. We are distinguished by:

• Decades of Experience: With a presence in Bulloch County since 1997, our deep understanding of local dynamics enhances our defense strategies.
• Comprehensive Legal Support: Beyond criminal defense, we offer counsel across family law, estate matters, and more, providing a holistic approach to your legal needs.
• Transparent Communication: We aim to clarify each step of the legal proceedings, minimizing stress and uncertainty.

Choosing Gabe T. Cliett P.C. means opting for a defense team that values integrity and cultivates trust through transparent fees and honest assessments of each case. Our decades of practice have built a reputation for reliability and strong client relationships in Statesboro and across Bulloch County.

Your Next Steps: Get the Legal Help You Deserve

Statutory rape and sexual offense charges carry serious consequences in Georgia – but you don't have to face them alone. At Gabe T. Cliett P.C., we offer aggressive legal defense paired with honest, compassionate counsel. We are dedicated solely to protecting your rights and fighting for your future.

Call (912) 274-7752 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation today. Your future deserves a dedicated defense grounded in clarity, integrity, and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age of consent in Georgia?

The legal age of consent in Georgia is 16. Sexual intercourse with anyone younger – even with their apparent consent – can lead to felony statutory rape charges.

Can I still go to jail under the “Romeo and Juliet” law?

Yes, but the penalties are far less severe. The “Romeo and Juliet” law reduces the statutory rape charge to a misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail, as opposed to the 1 - 20 year potential prison sentence for a felony.

Will I have to register as a sex offender?

A felony conviction for statutory rape requires mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender. However, if your case is resolved under the “Romeo and Juliet” law, you are NOT required to register. 

Can statutory rape charges be dropped?

Not necessarily. The decision to prosecute lies with the prosecutor, not the alleged victim or their family. While their cooperation may influence the case, the prosecutor can still move forward with charges if they believe they have enough evidence.

Take Control of Your Defense Today

Facing statutory rape or sexual assault charges requires immediate action. Contact us at Gabe T. Cliett P.C. for a free consultation to discuss your case and discover how we can assist you. Our approach centers on reducing anxiety and providing clarity to make informed decisions. With our small caseload, you'll receive dedicated attention and a detailed strategy tailored to your circumstances. Reach out to us to secure the steadfast legal support you need.

Call us today at (912) 274-7752 to begin crafting your defense and taking proactive steps towards protecting your future.