Statutory Rape Attorneys in Worcester

Providing Diligent Criminal Defense in Middlesex and Hampden Counties , Massachusetts

In the state of Massachusetts, the statutory rape laws are extremely harsh. At Murphy & Rudolf, LLP, our Worcester criminal defense lawyers can work hard to build your case and seek a favorable outcome.

Call us today at 508-570-3037 for a free consultation.

Statutory Rape & Juvenile Sex Offense Laws in Massachusetts

Statutory rape (consensual sex) of a child under age 16 is a crime in Massachusetts, regardless of the age of the accused. Adjudication (conviction) as a youthful offender can result in detention. Under Jessica’s Law, there is a 10-year minimum sentence for statutory rape if the child is under age 12 and the defendant is more than five years older, or if the child is between ages 12 and 16 and the defendant is more than 10 years older.

Other juvenile sex charges in addition to statutory rape may include:

• Possession of child pornography
• Distribution of child pornography
• Sexting
• Using social media to distribute sexual content or images of underage teens

Regardless of whether the messages or images are between consenting underage partners, charges may be filed. Simply receiving sexually suggestive texts, e-mails, or social media messages can result in an arrest. Use of cellphones or the Internet to distribute these messages can also result in federal charges with severe penalties.