We Defend Serious Allegations with Experience, Strategy, and Discretion.
Sexual assault by penetration is one of the most serious criminal allegations under UK law. Defined under Section 2 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, it involves:
The intentional penetration of the vagina or anus with a body part or object, without the person’s consent, and without a reasonable belief that they consented.
Unlike rape, which is limited to penile penetration, this offence can be committed by any gender using fingers, objects, or other parts of the body. If you’ve been accused of sexual assault by penetration, the stakes are life-changing, and you need a specialist solicitor immediately.
This charge is indictable-only, meaning it will always be dealt with in the Crown Court due to its seriousness. Convictions can result in:
A maximum sentence of life imprisonment
Inclusion on the Sex Offenders Register
Imposition of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO)
Lasting damage to your career, reputation, and personal relationships
Understanding the distinction:
Rape – Penile penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth
Sexual assault by penetration – Non-penile penetration of the vagina or anus (e.g., fingers, objects)
Sexual assault – Non-penetrative sexual touching without consent
If you’ve been arrested for sexual assault, it's essential to clarify what you are being investigated for and ensure you receive immediate advice from a qualified sex offence lawyer.
At the heart of these cases lies the issue of consent. Under UK law, consent must be:
Freely given
By someone with capacity
Recognised through clear, voluntary agreement
A common defence is a reasonable belief in consent, but this must hold up under objective scrutiny.
Courts consider factors like:
The complainant’s capacity (e.g., intoxication or vulnerability)
The nature of the relationship
Any steps you took to confirm consent
Even if you’ve been invited to a voluntary police interview, do not attend without legal representation. These interviews are often recorded and used as key evidence.
Our expert solicitors for sexual assault by penetration are available 24/7 to advise and attend interviews with you. We’ll help protect your rights and ensure you don’t inadvertently damage your defence.
Our role as your sexual offence defence team includes:
Detailed case analysis – including digital forensics, CCTV, text messages
Challenging unreliable evidence – inconsistencies in witness statements, social media context
Advising on plea and legal risks
Protecting your rights from the first police contact to trial
We’re not just legal representatives, we’re strategic advisors committed to safeguarding your future.
Whether you're under investigation or facing trial, we provide tailored defence for sexual offences UK wide — discreetly, professionally, and effectively.
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Sexual Offence Defence
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