Question 1

Why don’t the police believe me that I’m not guilty of rape?

Accepted Answer

The police are human beings with prejudices and failings. They also spend their time being suspicious and following through on those suspicions. That’s their job, and it sometimes means they fall into the trap of suspecting everybody, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be charged or convicted. The CPS, not the police, decide whether a person is charged with rape.

Question 2

Will the jury believe me?

Accepted Answer

The jury is not allowed to decide you are guilty of rape unless they are sure that you did it. That usually means that more than just one person’s word is needed to convict you. They will look at all the circumstances. Is there a history of violence? Is there any other evidence which makes it more likely the person is guilty?

Question 3

How can they bring a case if it’s only her word against mine?

Accepted Answer

This is a good question, and it is the reason that many rape cases which the CPS decide to charge end up with a not guilty verdict. If you are frustrated by the fact that police or the CPS are treating the case against you as credible when it is not supported by evidence, remember that the jury will likely want more than just the complainant’s word.

Question 4

Will I go to prison if I am accused of rape?

Accepted Answer

Only if you plead guilty or if you're found guilty by a jury. It's quite rare for someone to avoid prison for a rape offence if convicted unless there are special circumstances related to mental health or if the person is a youth.

Question 5

Will I be on the sex offenders register if I'm convicted of rape?

Accepted Answer

If you're convicted you will have to sign the register and follow 'notification requirements'. This means the police will know your address and you will have to tell them if you travel abroad. It doesn't mean that neighbours will immediately be able to access your criminal record. It’s probably worth bearing in mind that the police know where most people live, and can find out quite easily if we leave the country via an airport.

Question 6

How long is the sentence for rape?

Accepted Answer

In the UK sentences for rape vary. At one end of the spectrum, a rape of a stranger with a threat of violence can attract a sentence of over ten years, as can rape of a vulnerable person. A rape where two partners were already in a sexual relationship might result in a much lower sentence of 2-3 years. Non-custodial sentences might be considered where the perpetrator is a youth or suffered from a relevant mental condition which affected understanding. Sentencing in these cases is not straightforward. We recommend getting in touch with a specialist rape solicitor for advice.

An accusation of rape is toxic, but you don’t have to be its victim.

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