Sexual Assault and Rape Defense for Temple University Students

Facing a charge of sexual assault or rape can change your life in an instant. These allegations can derail your studies, close doors on future job opportunities, and throw your personal life into chaos. If you’re a Temple University student dealing with such accusations, it’s important to understand how serious the situation is—and why skilled legal help matters so much.

At Logue Law Group, our experienced legal team is dedicated to building a strong defense shaped around the unique details of your case. We know how frightening and overwhelming criminal charges can feel, and we’re here to stand by your side every step of the way. To schedule a free legal consultation, call Logue Law Group at 412.387.6901 or fill out our online form.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Sexual Assault and Rape Laws

In Pennsylvania, sexual assault and rape are both treated as serious crimes, each defined by its own legal standards and circumstances. Knowing exactly what separates one offense from another is essential—especially when your own future is on the line. A knowledgeable Mercer criminal lawyer can help you make sense of these distinctions and how they apply to your case.

Sexual Assault Rules

Sexual assault happens when one person engages in sexual activity with another without that person’s consent. Several factors can affect whether consent was truly given, such as when someone is unable to express consent because they were intoxicated.

You can also be charged with sexual assault for continuing any sexual activity after the other person has withdrawn their consent. The same applies to non-consensual deviate sexual acts, including oral or anal contact, or penetration with an object without permission. If you’re under investigation, speaking with a Mercer DUI attorney or criminal defense lawyer early can protect your rights.

In Pennsylvania, sexual assault is charged as a second-degree felony, and a conviction brings severe consequences, including:

• Up to ten years behind bars
• Criminal fines as high as $25,000

It’s worth noting that college campuses are common settings for situations where the line between consent and assault becomes unclear—particularly when alcohol is involved and actions are later viewed as criminal. Safeguarding your education and your future starts with treating these accusations seriously and reaching out for help.

Overview of Rape Laws

Rape is defined as having sexual intercourse through force or the threat of force. Situations involving coercion, like threatening someone with a weapon, are obvious examples of rape. A skilled Mercer criminal lawyer understands how these elements are evaluated in court. Other circumstances that meet the legal definition of rape include:

• Sexual intercourse with an unconscious person
• Using drugs to incapacitate someone in order to gain compliance
• Intercourse with a person who is mentally disabled

In Pennsylvania, rape is classified as a first-degree felony—one of the most serious felony classifications short of murder. A conviction may lead to:

• Up to 20 years of imprisonment
• Fines reaching $25,000

When the case involves a child under the age of 13, a rape conviction can carry a sentence of life in prison. Given these stakes, retaining a dedicated Mercer DUI attorney or defense lawyer without delay is critical.

An accusation will almost always set university disciplinary proceedings in motion. Temple University permits students to seek legal counsel during these hearings, and with both your education and your freedom hanging in the balance, hiring a capable defense attorney quickly is essential.

Work With Our Mercer Rape Defense Team Today

For Temple University students arrested for rape, acting fast is everything. Logue Law Group believes in quality over quantity, devoting the time and resources each client deserves to a thorough defense. To talk through your case in confidence with an experienced Mercer criminal lawyer, contact us at 412.387.6901 for a free review.