Understanding Rape Laws in Milwaukee and Waukesha
If you face charges of rape or sexual assault in Milwaukee or Waukesha, Wisconsin, you probably feel confused, scared and isolated. Your life and your livelihood, both personally and professionally, are on the line. Your emotions are high.
However, it is essential for you to remain calm and attempt to fully understand the nature of the charges against you.
Remember, this page is not intended to replace consultation with an attorney who is familiar with sexual assault laws.
Questions about sexual assault law in Milwaukee and Waukesha
Sexual assault law generally encompasses any crime that involves an offender touching the victim in a way that is sexual, unwanted and offensive. This can include, but is not limited to:
- Groping
- Sexual assault and battery
- Attempted rape
If you are a victim of sexual assault, you may want to contact the police directly. While many victims are unwilling to seek help, many outlets for victims of sexual assault are available:
- Family, friends, teachers and counselors
- A family doctor, clinic or hospital who can also offer medical assistance
- A sexual assault center, crisis center, or 24-hour crisis hotline can often be found online or in the front pages of the phone book
Some people are unsure if they have been a victim of sexual abuse. Trust your instincts. If you feel someone has not respected your body or your autonomy, you may want to end the relationship and possibly seek legal aid.
Sexual abuse law in Milwaukee and Waukesha FAQ
Sexual abuse or molestation is the forced, undesired sexual behavior of one person on another. When a person commits any of these acts, the offender is known a sexual abuser.
These crimes include, but are not limited to:
- Non-consensual, forced physical sexual behavior, or rape
- Unwanted sexual touching
- Kissing, fondling, or exposure
- Voyeurism or exhibitionism
- The exposure of pornography to a child, or making sexually suggestive statements to a child
- Misusing a position of trust to compel otherwise unwanted sexual activity
- Incest
- Spousal rape
Rape shield law FAQ
A rape shield law exists in both the United States and Canada. The law limits the ability of defendants to cross-examine plaintiffs about their past sexual behavior.
Essentially, rape shield laws prevent the introduction of opinions regarding the sexual history of an alleged victim in a rape case, and provide that any evidence of sexual conduct by the victim is irrelevant unless directly related to the case at hand.
Rape shield laws in places like Waukesha and Milwaukee help ensure that victims of rape are treated fairly and respectfully. While every state and the District of Columbia apply rape shield laws to criminal cases, only some extend the law to civil cases.
Respected legal assistance with sexual assault laws in Waukesha and Milwaukee
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