Prior Knowledge of a Juvenile in St. Bernard Parish

Decades Spent Protecting Clients throughout Chalmette

It is illegal for an adult to have sexual relations with someone under the age of 17. If you were charged with statutory rape, otherwise known as prior knowledge of a juvenile, it is important to get help from an experienced St. Bernard Parish sex crimes attorney in order to protect your rights.

At The Law Offices of Dan A. Robin, Jr., our team has handled thousands of criminal cases, and we know what it takes to build a strong defense for our clients. Let us help you avoid the devastating consequences of a criminal conviction.

Call (504) 267-2440 now or contact us online for a confidential consultation about your case.

Rules of Consent in Louisiana

Just because a person is under the age of 17 does not automatically mean they are incapable of consent. So long as the two people involved are within three years of age with each other and both consent, they are not in violation of any sex crime laws. For example, it is not illegal for a 19-year-old to engage in consensual relations with a 16-year-old. If the younger party is 15 years old or younger, however, it becomes a felony.

Penalties for a statutory rape conviction in Louisiana could include:

• Up to 10 years in prison
• Fines of up to $5,000
• Mandatory registration as a sex offender

Any of these consequences is enough to make life extremely difficult. Because statutory rape is considered a sex crime against a minor, you need a criminal defense lawyer who can help you tell your side of the story and protect your reputation.

Defenses against a Sex Crime

While it will not be possible to fight the charges by raising a question of age, there are other defenses our team may explore in order to help you obtain a favorable outcome for your case. Not all statutory rape cases are black and white. After thousands of cases handled in our years of practice, we have the knowledge and skill needed to help our clients work toward a reduced sentence or even have their charges dropped altogether.

The sooner you call our firm, the more time we will have to examine the charges and evidence against you to find an effective argument for your case. Your freedom is our priority. Let us help you protect your future.

Call (504) 267-2440 now to get started on your case.