Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is not necessarily rape; however, rape is a type of sexual assault. Sexual assault is defined as an assault of a sexual nature on another person. People often think that sexual assault is exclusively a male on female crime. This is not the case. Sexual assault can include:

• Male on female
• Male on male
• Female on male
• Female on female

Sexual assault laws and definitions vary by jurisdiction. In some places, rape is defined in such a way that it covers most aspects of sexual assault. In other jurisdictions rape is specifically considered forced vaginal penetration. Sexual assault, however, is often punished in much the same way as rape.

Sexual assault can include a lot of things. Depending on the jurisdiction, however, some of these are considered rape:

• Forced vaginal, anal or oral penetration
• Forced sexual intercourse
• Inappropriate touching
• Forced sexual advances
• Child molestation
• Sexual torture

These and any other forced sexual act can constitute sexual assault of some sort. While there are different levels and types of sexual assault, many of them are treated the same way. For this reason, even is an act is not considered rape, it can be punished in the same way. Rape and sexual assault are often punished with jail time and mandatory registration as a sex offender.

Speak with a Denton Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one is facing sexual assault charges, contact the Denton criminal defense attorneys of Alexander & Associates at 972-420-6560.