Dublin Sex Crimes Lawyer
A conviction for a sex crime in the state of California can have severe repercussions, including a prison sentence, lifetime sex offender registration, and the loss of some civil rights, including the right to possess firearms. Sex crimes also have the potential to harm your reputation and limit your employment opportunities. If you are facing charges, you may need the immediate assistance of a Dublin sex crimes lawyer.
Defenses to sex crime charges may be available in some cases. Mistaken identity, false allegations, and misunderstandings often arise in sex crime cases. A criminal defense lawyer could sort out the accusations against you and work toward the best outcome possible in your case. En Español.
Types of Sex Crimes
Sex crimes refer to various criminal offenses, both misdemeanors and felonies, that involve sexual contact or acts. Common types of sex crimes include:
- Indecent exposure and lewd conduct
- Rape
- Child sexual abuse
- Sexual battery
Other sex crimes include failure to register as a sex offender, prostitution, and offenses involving child pornography. While penalties for these offenses vary widely according to the severity of the crime and whether it constitutes a misdemeanor or a felony, the outcome is often harsh and life-altering. A sex crimes lawyer in Dublin may be able to investigate the facts that led to the criminal charges and determine what defenses are available.
When is Someone Charged with Lewd Conduct in a Public Place?
Lewd conduct covers a wide variety of illegal sexual behaviors under California law that occur in any public place. For instance, under California Penal Code § 647(a), it is illegal to solicit anyone to engage in or engage in lewd acts in public. Lewd acts encompass any conduct that involves sexual gratification or some form of sexual deviancy.
Engaging in lewd conduct in a public place is a misdemeanor offense that carries the potential for up to six months in jail and payment of a $1,000 fine. Courts sentencing individuals for this offense also may impose a sentence of probation and completion of community service hours.
What is Considered Sexual Battery in Dublin?
Ca. Pen. Code § 243.4 defines sexual battery as occurring when individuals illegally touch the intimate parts of others against their will for sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse. This offense may be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. As a misdemeanor, the offense carries the potential for up to six months in jail and a maximum $2,000 fine.
Sexual battery is a felony offense, however, if the act involved unlawful restraint, if the alleged target of the battery was institutionalized, of the act involved false representations, or if there was contact between the bare skin of one party and an intimate part of the other party. As a felony offense, a conviction for a sexual abuse can result in two to four years in the county jail and a $2,000 fine. The court may also require individuals convicted of sexual battery to register as sex offenders. Working with a talented Dublin sexual abuse lawyer could help with building a defense to minimize the potential penalties.
Consult a Dublin Sex Crimes Attorney Today
If you are facing charges, consulting a Dublin sex crimes lawyer may be the best way to obtain reduced charges or penalties. Am attorney could defend your constitutional rights, accompany you during police questioning, and identify potential defenses. Do not hesitate to contact legal counsel for assistance today.