Statutory rape is sexual contact between two people that would be legal if both people were of the age of consent. It is believed that people under a certain age (typically 14-18 in different states in the U.S.) cannot consent to sexual activity, even if they are in a relationship, or initiated the activity themselves. When there is a greater age difference between the two people—more than ten years, for example—or an obvious position of authority such as a teacher-student relationship, the offenses can be considered more serious. On the other hand, rape is an unwanted sexual encounter that may have happened because of force or violence.

Massachusetts Law and Penalties

Sexual activity, rape, or sexual assault involving a person younger than 16 is considered against the law in the state of Massachusetts. For statutory rape convictions, penalties include life imprisonment or any length of time. If there is an age consideration, such as person charged being at least five or ten years older than the victim, or that the victim is under 12 or aged 12-16, or if the person charged is a mandated reporter, such as a medical professional, teacher, member of the clergy, social worker, firefighter or police officer, a prison sentence can start at ten years and may be even longer. For convictions against previously convicted offenders on the sex offender registry, potential prison time is set for at least 15 years, if not longer.

If you or a loved one has been charged with statutory rape, contact Altman & Altman at 617.492.3000 or 800.481.6199 toll-free, or contact us online for a free consultation.