A statutory rape accusation can make it feel like everyone has already made up their mind about you. But an accusation is not a conviction, and the state has to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. You have the right to a defense that tests every claim and holds the state to its burden of proof.
The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz represents people across Puyallup facing these serious charges. With our statutory rape defense attorney on your side, you can confront these allegations and protect your future. If you have been arrested for a sex offense involving a minor, call our Puyallup rape defense lawyers now to request a free, no-obligation consultation.
Why Choose Our Puyallup Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer?
- Attorney Mark Treyz served as a Pierce County Deputy Prosecutor before turning to defense, giving him firsthand insight into how the state builds sex crime cases.
- As a small firm, we handle your case personally from start to finish. You will work directly with your defense attorney.
- We offer flexible payment plans to keep representation affordable for our clients.
How Washington State Defines Statutory Rape
Washington does not use the term statutory rape. The state prosecutes this conduct as rape of a child, or sexual intercourse with a minor under the age of consent, which is 16. There are three degrees of these charges:
- Rape of a child in the first degree involves a minor under 12 and an accused at least 24 months older. This is a Class A felony defined under RCW 9A.44.073.
- Rape of a child in the second degree involves a minor 12 or 13 and an accused at least 36 months older. This is a Class A felony defined under RCW 9A.44.076.
- Rape of a child in the third degree involves a minor 14 or 15 and an accused at least 48 months older. This is a Class C felony defined under RCW 9A.44.079.
Should You Hire an Attorney to Fight Statutory Rape Charges?
Facing a statutory rape charge without legal representation puts you at a serious disadvantage. Prosecutors are highly experienced in presenting sex crime evidence to a jury, which means they arrive prepared to build a persuasive case against you from the start. You need someone who can challenge that evidence and give the jury a reason to doubt it.
A Puyallup statutory rape defense attorney can look for inconsistencies in the accuser’s account and check whether investigators followed proper procedure. They can also consult investigators and forensic professionals to examine the claims independently, giving you a clear view of your options.
What Happens After a Statutory Rape Arrest in Pierce County
In Pierce County, a rape of a child case typically follows this path:
- Police book you into custody, where you may stay until a judge sets your release conditions.
- At arraignment, the court reads the charges and you enter a plea.
- The court sets bail and conditions that often include no-contact and travel restrictions.
- Both sides exchange evidence during discovery, and your attorney reviews the state’s case for weaknesses.
- The case then moves toward a plea agreement or a trial, based on the evidence and your attorney’s assessment.
Protect Your Future with The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz
A statutory rape accusation does not have to define your future. The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz brings decades of criminal defense experience to sex crime cases throughout Puyallup and Pierce County. Schedule a free consultation to talk through your situation and learn how we will fight for you.