Statutory Rape Attorney in Nashville

Facing Charges? Compassionate Defense for Sensitive Situations

If you or a loved one faces an investigation or has been charged, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure about what steps to take. At the Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, we support individuals and families in Nashville-Davidson. 

We handle statutory rape cases with discretion, respect, and a focus on helping you move forward. Our team breaks down the legal process, outlines your options, and gives clear steps so you stay informed each step of the way.

Navigating the criminal justice system in Nashville requires knowledge of Tennessee state law as well as the procedures used in Davidson County courts. We work with clients to anticipate each step the courts and agencies may take, which helps prevent surprises as your case moves forward.

Your freedom and reputation are on the line. Call (615) 745-3434 or reach out online immediately for a free consultation with a dedicated statutory rape attorney in Nashville. Our firm is available 24/7 to protect your rights.

Understanding Tennessee Statutory Rape Laws

In Tennessee, the age of consent for sexual activity is 18 years old. Statutory rape is defined by Tennessee Code 39-13-506 as unlawful sexual penetration with a victim who is a minor (at least 13 but under 18) by someone who is at least four years older, regardless of whether the minor consented. The law on sex offenses is highly detailed and separates the offense into three levels based on the age gap between the parties.

The Three Levels of Statutory Rape in Tennessee

The degree of the felony charge is determined by the difference in age, not by the alleged use of force:

• Mitigated Statutory Rape (Class E Felony): This applies if the victim is 15-17 years old and the defendant is 4 or 5 years older. This carries 1 to 6 years in prison.
• Statutory Rape (Class E Felony): This applies if the age difference is slightly larger:
  • The victim is 13 or 14, and the defendant is at least 4 but less than 10 years older.
  • The victim is 15-17 and the defendant is more than 5 but less than 10 years older.
  • A conviction for this offense may require a defendant to register as a sex offender.
• Aggravated Statutory Rape (Class D Felony): This is the most serious non-Child Rape charge, carrying 2 to 12 years in prison.
  • This applies if the defendant is 10 or more years older than the victim (who is 13 to 17 years old).
  • This offense always requires sex offender registration.

We meticulously analyze the ages of all parties to ensure the prosecution is not overcharging the offense, which is a critical initial strategy for your statutory rape attorney in Nashville.

Penalties of a Statutory Rape Conviction in Tennessee

A conviction for statutory rape is a felony that results in mandatory incarceration and lifelong consequences that far surpass the prison sentence.

Direct Criminal Penalties

• Mitigated statutory rape
  • Class E felony
  • Prison range: 1 to 6 years
  • Fines up to $3,000
  • Sex offender registration possible at the judge’s discretion
• Statutory rape
  • Class E felony
  • Prison range: 1 to 6 years
  • Fines up to $3,000
  • Sex offender registration possible at the judge’s discretion
• Aggravated statutory rape
  • Class D felony
  • Prison range: 2 to 12 years
  • Fines up to $5,000
  • Sex offender registration mandatory

Lifelong Collateral Consequences

• Sex Offender Registration: This is the most damaging consequence. Required registration means your name, photo, and address are publicly listed, severely restricting where you can live and work for the rest of your life.
• Supervision for Life: Certain serious sex offenders may be sentenced to community supervision for life upon release from prison.
• Employment and Housing: Convictions can result in the loss of professional licenses and the automatic denial of housing in many communities.
• Social Stigma: The severe social stigma associated with a sex crime conviction can lead to the destruction of relationships and reputation.

Our firm is focused on achieving a non-conviction outcome, which is the only way to avoid these devastating, permanent consequences.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Statutory Rape Defense in Nashville

When you hire the Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, you gain a dedicated legal team committed to fighting these accusations with urgency and precision. Our 24/7 availability means we are always ready to intervene, which is critical in sex crime investigations.

Utilizing the Mistake of Age Defense

Tennessee law allows for a Mistake of Age defense when the defendant reasonably believed the victim was 18 or older and the victim was at least 13 years old. 

We build this defense by gathering evidence, such as:

• The alleged victim’s appearance, behavior, and statements regarding their age.
• The use of fake IDs, social media profiles, or third-party confirmations that misled the defendant.
• We argue that if the belief was reasonable, the prosecution cannot prove the requisite criminal intent for statutory rape.

Asserting the Romeo and Juliet Exception

While not a full defense, Tennessee has a limited "Romeo and Juliet" provision that does not penalize consensual sexual activity if the victim is 13 to 17 years old and the other party is less than four years older.

Our firm meticulously reviews the age gap. If the gap is less than four years, we argue that the conduct does not constitute a criminal offense under the statute. We use this provision to challenge the charges where the age difference is minor.

Challenging the Evidence and Investigative Procedures

Our firm conducts a thorough investigation into law enforcement conduct, including:

• Statements: Challenging the admissibility of any statements made by the defendant to police, arguing that Miranda rights were violated or the statements were involuntary.
• Chain of Custody: Scrutinizing the handling of all forensic evidence.
• False Allegations: In cases involving custody disputes or emotional motivations, we investigate the possibility of false or exaggerated allegations.

Trusted Legal Guidance from a Statutory Rape Lawyer in Nashville

A statutory rape accusation can bring serious legal and personal consequences. Tennessee law sets strict boundaries on age of consent, creating situations with severe penalties. When you contact our firm, you receive practical legal advice and support from a statutory rape attorney in Nashville-Davidson, delivered with care and respect. 

We provide:

• Personalized legal guidance: We listen, explain all your options, and tailor our legal approach for your unique needs.
• Clear communication: You remain informed at every stage, with prompt answers to your questions.
• Affordability and transparency: We offer fee structures to help minimize financial strain, with no hidden costs.
• Proven experience: Drawing on thousands of criminal cases throughout Middle Tennessee, we help inform every decision in your defense.
• Non-judgmental counsel: We treat every client with respect and remain focused on workable solutions, not judgment.

Statutory rape cases in this region often involve the Metro Nashville Police Department and the Davidson County District Attorney’s Office. Each agency follows established steps for evidence collection, interviews, and charging decisions. 

Our team understands these local practices and prepares you for how law enforcement, court staff, or attorneys may interact with you. We encourage open conversations, so you understand both what to expect and how to present your story in its best light. You gain more confidence to participate in key decisions throughout your case.

What to Expect When You Seek Statutory Rape Defense Representation

Choosing a statutory rape lawyer in Nashville-Davidson usually begins with a private meeting. During this confidential discussion, we review the details that matter most—such as ages, timelines, and facts surrounding the accusations. Tennessee prosecutes statutory rape under clearly defined statutes, and the outcome depends on many elements: the evidence collected, details of the incident, and each person’s past record.

Our process aims to bring clarity and steady guidance when you need it most:

• Confidential consultation: All meetings are private and provide a safe space to share your concerns.
• Case review: We examine the facts, evidence, and key legal elements as charged by Davidson County prosecutors.
• Detailed guidance: At each stage, we explain legal terms and answer your questions so you understand both your rights and requirements.
• Regular updates: You receive timely communication about every key development, using clear language—not legal jargon.

After our initial consultation, many clients experience relief as we clarify the steps ahead. The courts in Nashville-Davidson follow a structured set of procedures for hearings, motions, and negotiations, though timing and details can vary with the nature of the charge. With our understanding of court calendars and hearing scheduling in Davidson County, we lay out a realistic view of the process and prepare you for key dates and requirements tied to your case.

Contact a Statutory Rape Lawyer in Nashville Today

You do not have to face legal concerns alone. By reaching out to Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, you gain access to private guidance, honest answers, and ongoing communication from your first call onward. Our team stands ready to discuss your situation, explain your options, and deliver the supportive advocacy you deserve.

The sooner you get legal counsel involved, the better your chances of planning a strong strategy and improving your confidence throughout the process. All consultations with our statutory rape attorneys remain private. We focus on helping clients in Nashville-Davidson make decisions that preserve their dignity and protect their rights at every stage.

Call (615) 745-3434 or reach out online to speak with a team committed to your privacy, clarity, and peace of mind as you move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions