Rape in the First Degree - NYPL § 130.35

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Under New York Penal Law § 130.35, Rape in the First Degree is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with another person by forcible compulsion, or with someone who is physically helpless, or under the age of 11, or under the age of 13 when the perpetrator is 18 years old or older. This classification makes it one of the most serious sexual offenses, carrying stringent penalties and significant social stigma.

At Lebedin Kofman LLP, we understand the critical nature of charges such as Rape in the First Degree. Our New York sex crimes lawyers are committed to defending the rights of our clients with thoroughness and dedication. If you or someone you know has been charged with Rape in the First Degree, it is crucial to seek knowledgeable legal guidance immediately. Contact Lebedin Kofman LLP today to discuss your case. Our team is prepared to evaluate the specifics of your situation, offer clear legal insights, and develop a strategic defense tailored to your circumstances.

Hypothetical Example

Consider a scenario where James breaks into Emma’s apartment. During the intrusion, he threatens Jane with a knife and forces her to engage in sexual intercourse. Jane is incapacitated by fear and unable to resist physically. If prosecuted, James could be charged with Rape in the First Degree due to engaging in sexual intercourse through forcible compulsion. In addition, James can also be charged with the felony of burglary.

Elements and Definitions

Rape in the first degree is one of the most severe sexual offenses under New York law, as outlined in Penal Law § 130.35. This crime is defined by several specific elements, each constituting a different scenario under which the offense can be charged.

Here are the key elements and definitions related to Rape in the First Degree in New York:

Sexual Intercourse by Forcible Compulsion: This element involves engaging in sexual intercourse with another person against that person’s will by using physical force or the threat thereof. The term “forcible compulsion” encompasses both physical force and threats that place a person in fear of immediate death or physical injury either to themselves or another person.
Sexual Intercourse with a Physically Helpless Victim: This refers to instances where the perpetrator engages in sexual intercourse with a person who is unable to consent because they are physically incapable of doing so. “Physically helpless” means that the victim is unconscious, asleep, or otherwise unable to communicate unwillingness to consent.
Sexual Intercourse with a Person Less Than 11 Years Old: This element covers situations where the perpetrator engages in sexual intercourse with a child who is under 11 years old, regardless of the perpetrator’s age or the presence of force or consent.
Sexual Intercourse with a Person Less Than 13 Years Old by an Adult: This involves an adult (18 years old or older) engaging in sexual intercourse with a person who is less than 13 years old. In this context, the law recognizes the significant age difference and the inherent inability of a child under 13 to consent to sexual acts with an adult.

Each of these elements highlights different circumstances under which the charge of Rape in the First Degree can be applied. The law is designed to protect the most vulnerable—those who cannot consent due to age, physical condition, or the application of force. Conviction of Rape in the First Degree carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms, and has profound implications for the accused’s future.

Given the gravity of this charge, legal representation is crucial. An attorney can help navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect the rights of the accused, and challenge the prosecution’s case where appropriate.

Possible Legal Defenses

When facing an accusation of a sex offense, demonstrating that the alleged victim consented to the sexual contact can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case. It’s crucial to understand, though, that this defense has its limitations depending on the circumstances of the charge. Most especially, consent cannot be given by children, incapacitated persons, and persons who are coerced into intercourse. This is an important distinction to keep in mind as it directly impacts the defense strategy in these cases.

In addition to consensual contact, a possible legal defense that can be used in these cases is the statute of limitations. Under New York law, charges of rape in the first degree must be filed within five years of the incident (New York State Criminal Procedure Law § 30.10). If the prosecution does not bring charges within this five-year window, they are generally prohibited from pursuing the case. However, there is an important exception: if the victim was under 18 years old at the time of the incident. The statute of limitations doesn’t start until the victim turns 18 or the incident is reported to law enforcement. Even when charges are filed within the allowable period, any substantial delay in doing so can complicate the prosecution’s efforts to build a strong case.

Penalties

As a Class B felony, Rape in the First Degree carries severe penalties:

Imprisonment: Due to its classification as a violent felony offense, a conviction of Rape in the First Degree carries a minimum sentence of 5 years, which can extend up to 25 years in prison.
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: Mandatory registration as a sex offender under SORA for a minimum of 20 years up to life-long registration.
Fines: A defendant may be made to pay up to $5,000 in fines.
Probation: A probation period of up to 10 years may be imposed upon conviction.

New York Penal Law § 130.35: Rape in the First Degree

A person is guilty of rape in the first degree when he or she engages in sexual intercourse with another person:

By forcible compulsion; or
Who is incapable of consent by reason of being physically helpless; or
Who is less than eleven years old; or
Who is less than thirteen years old and the actor is eighteen years old or more.

Rape in the first degree is a class B felony.

Amendments to the Law

It is important to note that this version of the law will only be effective until September 1, 2024. From September 1, 2024, an updated version of the law will take into effect, as follows:

A person is guilty of rape in the first degree when:

he or she engages in vaginal sexual contact with another person:
1. By forcible compulsion; or
2. Who is incapable of consent by reason of being physically helpless; or
3. Who is less than eleven years old; or
4. Who is less than thirteen years old and the actor is eighteen years old or more;
he or she engages in oral sexual contact with another person:
1. By forcible compulsion; or
2. Who is incapable of consent by reason of being physically helpless; or
3. Who is less than eleven years old; or
4. Who is less than thirteen years old and the actor is eighteen years old or more; or
he or she engages in anal sexual contact with another person:
1. (a) By forcible compulsion; or
2. (b) Who is incapable of consent by reason of being physically helpless; or
3. (c) Who is less than eleven years old; or
4. (d) Who is less than thirteen years old and the actor is eighteen years old or more.

Rape in the first degree is a class B felony.

Lebedin Kofman LLP: Your Advocate in Challenging Times

New York’s laws on Rape in the First Degree outline severe penalties and complex legal challenges for those accused. This high-level felony charge requires a clear understanding of the law, as it involves allegations of forcible sexual intercourse, among other serious conditions. For anyone facing such charges, knowledge of the law and a strong defense are essential.

At Lebedin Kofman LLP, we recognize the profound impact that a charge of Rape in the First Degree can have on your life. Our New York rape attorneys are committed to providing a compassionate yet vigorous defense for our clients. We focus on understanding every detail of your case, advocating for your rights, and working towards the most favorable outcome possible.

If you or someone you care about is facing such serious charges, it’s crucial to act quickly to safeguard your future. Contact Lebedin Kofman LLP today at (646) 663-4430 to schedule a comprehensive consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to support you at every step.

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