Fresno Statutory Rape Defense Attorneys
Defending Clients in Fresno, Madera, Kings, & Tulare Counties
California has very strict laws regarding sexual contact between adults and minors. These laws are known as age of consent laws. They make it illegal for an adult to have sexual contact with a minor under the age of 18, even if the minor consents to the contact. These types of crimes are often referred to as statutory rape. If you or a loved one has been accused of statutory rape, you are facing life-altering consequences if convicted. The state of California takes these charges very seriously. You need an experienced and aggressive lawyer to fight for you in court.
At the Sawl Law Group, we have over 40 years of experience representing clients throughout Central California. Our Fresno statutory rape lawyers are well-versed in both state and federal sex crimes laws. We can help you navigate the legal process and make sure you understand your rights and options. Our attorneys will fight to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Call us today at (559) 205-7757 or online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with one of our lawyers.
What Is Statutory Rape in California?
It is important to understand that statutory rape is a strict liability crime. This means that the prosecution does not have to prove that the defendant knew the victim was underage or that the defendant intended to commit a crime. If the prosecution can prove that the sexual contact occurred, the defendant can be convicted, regardless of the circumstances.
In California, statutory rape is defined as sexual intercourse with a minor who is:
- Under the age of 18
- Not the spouse of the perpetrator
Statutory rape is a “wobbler” offense, which means it can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. If the victim is 14 years old or younger and the defendant is 10 or more years older, the crime will be charged as a felony. If the victim is 16 years old or younger and the defendant is at least 21 years old, the crime will also be charged as a felony. All other cases of statutory rape are typically charged as misdemeanors, which are punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and/or a maximum $1,000 fine.
If you are facing statutory rape charges, you need to take them seriously. Contact our firm today for skilled legal representation.
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"Martin was the perfect person to work on helping me get through my DUI."10/10 would recommend Martin, communication was always there, he was the perfect person to work on helping me get through my DUI.- Google Reviews - C.D. Carter
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"Corina is always responsive and makes you feel like a friend."Corina Burchfield walked me step by step through the whole process she is very professional definitely recommend her. She is always responsive and makes you feel like a friend.- Google Review - Brianna M.
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"This was such a relief to me. My fee was very affordable, and I was able to be put on a payment arrangement. I couldn’t of asked for better service."
Sawl Law Group was such a big help to me. I would definitely recommend anyone who needs a lawyer to them. I currently live in a different state and was unable to appear in court. Sawl Law Group stood in on my behalf. I was so grateful. In the end my warrant was recalled, and I was able to complete the stipulations of my case in my current state. This was such a relief to me. My fee was very affordable, and I was able to be put on a payment arrangement. I couldn’t of asked for better service. My person of contact was Claudia, and she was very helpful, and informative. She answered all my questions, always contacted me back when a message was left, and was always available for me. She walked me through the whole process and I appreciate her support. I just want to thank my lawyer Michelle for working on my behalf and Sawl Law Group for helping me out when I most needed it. So if your searching for a good lawyer who would work on your behalf, please choose Sawl Law Group.
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"They were able to lower my DUI to a much lesser charge of “Wet Reckless” saving me thousands of dollars, and time. So thank you Sawl Law Group, Claudia, and Michelle."
I just wanted to say a few things about Sawl Law Group. I had never needed to hire an attorney before, so I didn’t know what I was doing, or what to expect. When i had just been charged with a DUI; I had a pile of law offices to choose from. The first one that stood out was Sawl Law Group. They were very professional, and welcoming. Claudia made a long drive, just to meet with me face to face, and have a short conversation about my case, and my options. She made me feel confident that I could do much better than I had hoped. Claudia paired me up with Michelle, the attorney that would then, represent me. She took care of all my court dates (after signing a document of course) which was especially helpful with my crazy work schedule. Not only that, but they were able to lower my DUI to a much lesser charge of “Wet Reckless” saving me thousands of dollars, and time. So thank you Sawl Law Group, Claudia, and Michelle. And to anyone else who finds themselves in a bind; I definitely recommend starting here!
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This was the first time I had ever been involved in any situation like this. I had spoken with a few lawyers before heading to Sawl Law Group. The previous lawyers did not meet my expectations with their professionalism, concern or attentiveness. Sawl Law Group was very welcoming and understanding.
They took immediate ownership of the problem at hand. This problem had wrecked havoc on my life by draining my time and my finances. Sawl Law Group was affordable and handled the case so I wasn’t required to miss work and physically be present. I would highly recommend Sawl Law Group to friends, family and anyone who needs a tough lawyer to receive justice.
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"Sawl Law Group allowed me to rest easy at night."Sawl Law Group allowed me to rest easy at night. I didn't have to follow up they were handling the matter so professionally. I would indeed go back to them if I had another issue. They were so kind and understanding.- Valerie R.
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"Had it not been for Sawl Law Group, I would not have been as far as I am today in my military career."This is by far the most experienced and professional team of lawyers I've had the pleasure of working with. The staff was amazing, polite and very attentive to all my questions and needs regarding my case. Mr. Taleisnik was very reassuring regarding the best possible outcome for my case. While preparing my case I was kept well informed and was consistently and accurately updated with any new information. Had it not been for Sawl Law Group, I would not have been as far as I am today in my military carrier. I highly recommend this professional and well experienced team of attorney's.- James M.
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Just wanted to thank the Sawl Law group for a job well done. Corina did a great job and was very helpful. Corina explained the procedure in great detail. She always kept me well informed and always made herself available to me via phone, email and in person. I would highly recommend the Sawl Law group to family and friends if they were ever in need of their services.
Thanks again for all your help and hard work!
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