Rape Allegations & Sexual Assault

When Your Freedom and Reputation Are on the Line

Being accused of rape is one of the most serious charges a person can face. Even before a trial begins, a rape allegation can destroy your career, reputation, family relationships, and future opportunities. If convicted, the penalties include lengthy state prison sentences, lifetime registration as a sex offender, and permanent damage that you can never undo.

At Sheridan Lawyers, we provide aggressive, strategic, and discreet representation for individuals accused of rape and sexual assault. We defend clients in Chester County, Bucks County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

What Qualifies as Rape Under Pennsylvania Law?

In Pennsylvania, rape is defined as sexual intercourse without consent that involves forcible compulsion, threats, intoxication, unconsciousness, or when the victim is incapable of consent due to age or incapacity. Even a single accusation can be enough to bring charges, with or without DNA evidence.

The Stakes Could Not Be Higher

If convicted of rape or sexual assault, you could face:

• Decades in state prison

• Mandatory Megan’s Law / SORNA sex offender registration

• Loss of custody and parental rights

• Barriers to employment, housing, and education

• Permanent destruction of your personal and professional reputation

The accusation alone can be devastating. That is why immediate, aggressive legal defense is critical.

Our Approach to Rape Allegations Defense

Sheridan Lawyers builds your defense from the ground up, focusing on:

1. Immediate Intervention: We protect your rights before charges escalate.

2. Thorough Investigation: Analyzing DNA, forensic evidence, text messages, social media, and inconsistencies in witness statements.

3. Credibility Challenges: Cross-examining witnesses to expose false or unreliable accusations.

4. Pretrial Motions: Suppressing illegally obtained evidence and challenging improper police procedures.

5. Trial Preparation: Preparing a strategic, aggressive trial defense with experts if the case proceeds to court.

Why Choose Sheridan Lawyers?

• Experienced Defense: We have successfully handled some of the most sensitive and complex sex-crime cases in Pennsylvania.

• Discreet Representation: We handle every case with confidentiality and respect.

• Aggressive and Strategic: We do not assume guilt; we fight for your rights and the presumption of innocence.

• Prepared for Trial: We are not afraid to take your case to a jury when necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions – Rape Allegations