Sex Crimes

There is nothing quite like being accused of a sex crime. Facing charges of this nature can lead to catastrophic, life-changing events, including lengthy prison stints and carrying the label of “sex offender”. If you are facing charges of a sexual nature, you need all the help you can get.

There are many offenses under California laws that are classified as sex crimes. Whether the alleged victim is a child, a stranger, or someone you are close with, the allegations against you no doubt have you worried about your future.

Some of the offenses in this category that our attorneys may be able to help you with include:

Felony Sex Offenses

• Forcible Rape
• Spousal or Date Rape
• Statutory Rape
• Sexual Battery
• Lewd and Lascivious acts
• Child Pornography

Misdemeanor Sex Offenses

• Improperly Touching a Child
• Indecent Exposure
• Prostitution or Solicitation

These are all very serious criminal offenses, most of which are typically charged as felonies. If convicted of any of these, you could be facing anywhere from a few months to several years in prison.

“Sexting” Related Offenses

There are laws on the books in California relating to unlawful electronic communication of sexual material to minors, via computer or cell phone, commonly refered to as “sexting”. Sending or receiving explicit text messages or photos, or other phone or email communication with a minor is a crime. Common charges are:

• Communicating with a minor with the intent of a lewd act
• Possession of harmful matter depicting a person under eighteen
• Sending harmful matter with the intent of seduction
• Sexual exploitation of a minor

Both of these offenses are felony criminal charges. And sexting offenses, as well as other sex offenses in California can result in requirement to register as a sex offender.

California Sex Crimes: The Basics

Statutory Rape: Defined as an adult having sex with a minor. According to California law, no one under the age of 18 can consent to sex. This means, if you are 19 and your girlfriend is 17, you could, technically be charged with this offense.

Lewd and Lascivious Acts: This is a very complex offense with many potential variables. It is commonly called child molestation. Your charge and potential sentence for this crime can depend on the acts committed and the age of the child.

Forcible Rape: What people commonly refer to as general “rape”. Forcible rape can happen between any two people when sex is not consensual on the part of one.

Sexual Battery: This is a general sex offense that can be applied to many circumstances where elements of other charges can’t be fulfilled. Touching someone in a sexual manner when that contact is unwanted can be considered sexual battery.

Sex Offender Registration

In addition to prison time and fines, when you are convicted of a sex offense, you are forever labeled a sex offender. Sex offenders must register and be tracked no matter where they move. As a sex offender, anyone can look online and learn where you live and potentially even details about your conviction.

Also, if you are a convicted sex offender, it can change your residential and employment opportunities. Don’t underestimate the far reaching consequences of being convicted of a sex offense.

If you are facing charges like any of these listed in California, you need someone willing to hear your side of things. You need an experienced attorney who will aggressively defend your interests.

Call our California attorneys now discuss the details of your case. We have specific experience in the complicated and sensitive area of sex crimes in California courts.