Aggravated Sexual Assault in Washington

Sexual assault allegations carry devastating consequences that ripple through careers, relationships, and reputations. For those facing allegations of aggravated sexual assault, the consequences can be even more severe. 

Aggravated sexual assault offenses involve additional violent or coercive elements beyond the assault itself. These crimes often carry much higher penalties, which is why working with a Tacoma sexual crimes defense lawyer is crucial for protecting your rights and future.

What Is Aggravated Sexual Assault in Washington?

According to WAC 478-121-150, sexual assault in Washington is defined as “sexual contact with another person without, or that exceeds, that person’s consent.” All unwanted sexual contact falls under this statute, from unwanted touching to first-degree rape. 

Consent must be clear, knowing, and voluntary, given by someone with the legal capacity to consent. Minors, individuals who are unconscious or incapacitated, and those with certain mental disabilities cannot legally consent to sexual activity. If sexual contact occurs without proper consent or exceeds the scope of given consent, then the act constitutes sexual assault.

Aggravated sexual assault involves sexual contact without consent plus additional aggravating factors that escalate both the offense and potential penalties. These factors include using physical force, weapons, or threats of death or severe injury to compel sexual acts. The charge also applies when perpetrators use drugs or alcohol to render victims unconscious or otherwise unable to resist.

A conviction that involves aggravated sexual assault can carry severe consequences: lengthy prison sentences, lifetime sex offender registration, and restrictions on where to live and work. The stigma can follow defendants long after completing their sentence, impacting employment, housing, and personal relationships.

Your Rights After Being Charged with Sexual Assault

If you have been accused of aggravated sexual assault and are facing charges for crimes like first-degree rape, you can feel scared and overwhelmed. However, it is important to remember that you have several rights granted by the U.S. Constitution. These include the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, and the right to a fair trial where prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

After your arrest, exercise your right to remain silent immediately. Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney. Politely but firmly decline to answer questions from law enforcement without your lawyer present. 

Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible, even before speaking with police. Document everything you remember about the incident and preserve any evidence that might support your defense. Your attorney will guide you through each step of the legal process and begin building a strategy to disprove the prosecution’s case.

Speak with a Washington Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer Today

When you are facing accusations of aggravated sexual assault, you need a lawyer on your side who can fight for you. A criminal defense attorney can challenge evidence, question witness credibility, and make sure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the process. 

For years, The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz have aggressively defended those facing sexual assault charges throughout Washington. We know what it takes to build a strong defense and challenge a prosecutor’s case. To learn more about your rights, contact us at (253) 272-8666 for a confidential consultation with a Washington sex crimes defense lawyer.