Protecting Your Rights When Everything Is At Stake
A rape accusation in Kansas can change your life in an instant. You may be facing a felony charge, the possibility of prison, and long-term sex offender registration. On top of that, you are likely worried about your reputation, your job, your education, and your family.
At Addair Law, we represent people in and around Manhattan, Kansas, who are under investigation or charged with rape and other serious sex offenses. We know this is likely the most stressful situation you have ever faced, and we approach these cases with a combination of clear legal guidance and genuine respect for every client.
Our firm has served this region since 2005, and our attorneys focus on a small number of practice areas that include criminal defense. We draw on our local experience in Riley County and nearby courts to help clients understand what is happening, what is coming next, and how a rape defense lawyer can protect their future.
Do not wait for the state to build an insurmountable case. Contact a rape defense attorney in Manhattan at (785) 645-2732 or through our contact form to schedule your consultation. At Addair Law, we serve both English and Spanish-speaking clients, and we are ready to stand by you.
Understanding Rape Laws in Kansas
Kansas law defines rape under K.S.A. 21-5503 with clinical precision, yet the application of these laws in a courtroom is often fraught with complexity. A Manhattan rape lawyer must be adept at interpreting the specific legal theories the state may use to pursue a conviction.
Nonconsensual Intercourse by Force or Fear: Under K.S.A. 21-5503(a)(1), rape is defined as knowingly engaging in sexual intercourse with a victim who does not consent because they are overcome by force or fear.
Incapacity to Consent: The law also covers situations where the victim is unconscious, physically powerless, or incapable of giving consent due to mental deficiency or the effects of alcohol or drugs (provided the offender knew or should have known of this condition).
Age of Consent: Any sexual intercourse with a child under the age of 14 is classified as rape, regardless of the lack of force or the presence of perceived "consent." These are often "off-grid" felonies with the harshest possible penalties.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Rape Conviction in Manhattan
The consequences of a rape conviction in Kansas are designed to be permanent and life-altering. A Manhattan rape lawyer from our firm is your shield against the following:
Criminal Penalties
Severity Level 1 Felony: Under the Kansas sentencing grid, a first-time offender faces a presumptive prison sentence of approximately 147 to 165 months (over 12 years).
Off-Grid Sentencing (Jessica's Law): For cases involving victims under 14, the sentence is typically life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 25 to 50 years before parole eligibility.
Fines: Courts can impose fines of up to $300,000 for level 1 felonies and up to $500,000 for off-grid crimes.
Collateral Consequences
Lifetime Sex Offender Registration: A conviction requires registration on the public Kansas Offender Registry. This includes quarterly in-person check-ins with local law enforcement and strict residency restrictions.
Loss of Civil Rights: You will lose your right to possess firearms for life and your right to vote until your entire sentence (including parole) is discharged.
Professional and Personal Devastation: A conviction for a sex offense results in the immediate loss of professional licenses and makes obtaining future employment nearly impossible. The social stigma can alienate you from your community and family permanently.
If you reach out to us after a rape accusation, our first priority is to listen. We schedule a confidential consultation, which can be in person at our Manhattan office or through a secure virtual meeting. During that meeting, we review any paperwork you have received, such as a complaint, bond conditions, or notices from the court or a campus or military investigator.
From there, we begin a careful review of the information available. In a typical rape or sexual assault case, it can include police reports, interview summaries, digital communications, medical records, and any forensic testing. We look for inconsistencies in witness accounts, potential problems with how evidence was collected, and any issues related to searches, seizures, or statements that may have constitutional implications.
Communication is central to the way we work. Our goal is to keep you informed at each stage, to explain which hearings are coming up in the Riley County District Court or another Kansas court, and to prepare you for what to expect. We talk frankly about risks and possible outcomes, and we answer your questions in plain language. We also help you understand when it is appropriate to speak and when it is safer to remain silent so you do not unintentionally harm your defense.
Why Addair Law Is a Trusted Choice
When you are deciding which rape lawyer in Manhattan to call, you are not just choosing a legal service. You are choosing who will stand next to you at some of the most difficult moments of your life. At Addair Law, we have represented people in Manhattan and central and northeastern Kansas since 2005, and we bring that long-term presence to every case.
Our attorneys focus on a limited number of practice areas, including criminal defense, so we can give serious cases like rape allegations the attention they require. Because we regularly appear in the Riley County District Court and other Kansas courts, we understand local procedures and can explain what is typical in this area. That local knowledge can help us anticipate how certain issues are likely to be handled and what questions a judge may ask.
We also know that our clients are people, not just defendants. Many are students at Kansas State University, service members or spouses connected to Fort Riley, or long-time residents worried about the future of their families. We work to communicate clearly, to return calls, and to be straightforward about the strengths and weaknesses of each case. Our bilingual English and Spanish services and secure virtual consultations are part of that commitment to accessible, human-centered representation.
Talk to Our Rape Defense Lawyer in Manhattan
If you or someone you care about is facing a rape accusation in this area, you do not have to navigate this alone. Our attorneys at Addair Law are prepared to listen, explain your options, and provide focused criminal defense representation rooted in Manhattan and the surrounding Kansas communities.
Contact us to schedule a confidential consultation and talk with a rape defense attorney in Manhattan about your situation. Call (785) 645-2732 to speak with our criminal defense team.
“The Addair Law team fought hard for the best outcome on my DUI case, taking it all the way to trial. Highly recommend for dedicated, top-tier defense!”
Brian F.
“Efficient & Knowledgeable Legal Help”
“Gabriella and her team quickly unsealed my father’s adoption records. Highly recommend Addair Law for exceptional service in Kansas!”
Tim M.
“Expert Legal Representation”
“Tom and Andy were exceptional in handling my case. Their knowledge and dedication led to a dismissal, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
E.B.
“Top Legal Support at Fort Riley”
“Addair Law offers outstanding service to servicemembers. Mr. Vinduska and Sherilyn handled my case with expertise and care, ensuring a positive outcome.”
Built on Integrity, Commitment, and Client-Centered Care
What Sets Addair Law Apart?
Bilingual Representation
We provide legal services in both English and Spanish to ensure clear communication and personalized guidance for every client.
Convenient Virtual Consultations
Access legal support from the comfort of your home with secure virtual consultations, tailored to fit your schedule.
Client-Centered Solutions
Our approach prioritizes your needs and goals, with strategies designed to achieve the best outcomes for your unique situation.
Trusted Local Expertise
With a deep understanding of the law and our community, we’re committed to protecting your rights and advocating for you every step of the way.
What To Do After a Rape Accusation
In the hours and days after a rape allegation, the choices you make can affect both your case and your personal life. It is natural to want to defend yourself immediately, especially on social media or by contacting the person accusing you. That instinct is understandable, but it can create serious legal problems and complicate your defense.
Law enforcement in Manhattan and elsewhere in Kansas may contact you for an interview or ask you to come to the station to tell your side. It can feel tempting to talk because you want to be believed. However, officers are gathering information that may later be used in court, and partial information can be misunderstood. Speaking with a rape defense lawyer before any interview helps you understand your rights and avoid statements that can be taken out of context.
Some immediate steps can help protect you and your case:
Do not discuss the accusation with anyone other than an attorney, including on social media or through group chats.
Avoid contacting the accuser directly, even if you want to apologize or clear things up, because any contact can be misinterpreted or used against you.
Do not give a written or recorded statement to police, campus investigators, or military authorities without first speaking with a lawyer who can advise you.
Preserve potential evidence, such as text messages, emails, social media posts, photos, or travel records, and avoid deleting anything related to the events in question.
Write down your recollection of events as soon as you can, including dates, times, locations, and who was present, while your memory is fresh.
You should speak with a defense lawyer before giving any statement. Police are trained to gather information that may later be used in court, and partial stories can be misunderstood. We can explain your rights, advise you on whether to answer questions, and guide any interaction with officers.
Will anyone find out that I contacted your firm?
Conversations with our attorneys about your case are confidential. We do not discuss your situation with others without your permission. Many clients prefer to meet virtually or outside normal work hours, and we work to schedule consultations in ways that respect your privacy and comfort.
What penalties could I face for a rape conviction?
Penalties in Kansas can include significant prison time, post release supervision, and sex offender registration. The exact range depends on the charge, prior history, and other factors. During a consultation, we review the specific allegations, explain potential sentencing guidelines, and discuss how those laws could apply to your situation.
How quickly can your attorneys get involved in my case?
We encourage people to contact us as soon as they suspect an investigation or after any arrest. Our team reviews new matters promptly so we can advise you before interviews, first appearances, or bond hearings. Early involvement allows us to protect your rights from the beginning and to help you avoid missteps.
Do you represent students and military families?
Yes. We regularly work with students from Kansas State University and individuals connected to Fort Riley who are facing criminal charges in Kansas courts. We understand the added concerns related to education, housing, and military careers, and we tailor our advice to those unique pressures and responsibilities.
