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.
Penalties for Statutory Rape
As previously mentioned, statutory rape can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the specific details of the case. Felony statutory rape is punishable by 3, 6, or 8 years in state prison and/or a maximum $10,000 fine. Misdemeanor statutory rape is punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and/or a maximum $1,000 fine. In addition to these penalties, a statutory rape conviction will result in having to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life.
Sex offender registration requires you to provide your personal information to a public database, which is accessible to anyone in the community. It also imposes several other restrictions on your life, including:
- Being unable to live near schools, parks, or other areas where children congregate
- Having to inform your employer that you are a registered sex offender
- Being unable to be alone with your own children
- Being unable to obtain certain jobs or professional licenses
- Being unable to obtain certain types of housing
These are just a few of the many ways your life can be affected by a statutory rape conviction. The consequences are severe and can last a lifetime. Fortunately, our Fresno statutory rape defense attorneys can help. We will fight to protect your rights and your future.
Defenses Against Statutory Rape Charges
There are several defenses that can be used against statutory rape charges. Our attorneys can help you build a strong defense strategy and work toward getting the charges against you reduced or dismissed.
Some possible defenses against statutory rape charges include:
- There is a reasonable doubt that sexual intercourse occurred
- You are married to the victim
- You are less than 3 years older than the victim and the victim is 14 years old or older
- You did not know the victim was underage
These are just a few examples of the many defenses that can be used in a statutory rape case. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the details of your case and help you determine which defense strategy is best for you.
Call Our Firm Today
If you have been accused of statutory rape, you need to contact an attorney immediately. Our Fresno statutory rape defense lawyers can help you understand your rights and options and work toward getting the charges against you reduced or dismissed. We are committed to providing each and every one of our clients with compassionate, personalized legal services. Our attorneys will fight aggressively for you in court.
Call us today at (559) 205-7757 or fill out an online contact form to schedule a free, confidential consultation with one of our lawyers.
