Martinez Sex Crimes Lawyer

Sex crime prosecutions can be complex, as they often involve highly emotional issues, widespread media coverage, and criticism of the accused even before a trial occurs. If you are accused of committing a sexual crime, you can face permanent damage to your reputation, job, and family.

A Martinez sex crimes lawyer knows how these cases can impact your future, both personally and professionally, and could help you reach the best possible outcome in your case. Due to the complicated nature of these cases, consulting an experienced criminal attorney could be instrumental to a favorable result.

Sex Crime Charges in Martinez

Numerous sex-related criminal charges exist under California law. They can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the nature of the incident and the extent of the alleged harm. For example, crimes involving prostitution and solicitation often are lower-level misdemeanor offenses, as the perceived risk of harm may be lower than in other sex crime cases.

However, if the crimes involve violence, children, assault, or other aggravating factors, the charges and penalties are likely to be far more severe. Some of these sex offenses:

• Rape and statutory rape
• Sexual battery
• Indecent exposure
• Lewd act upon a child

Convictions for sex crimes can result in a wide array of consequences, depending on the level of the charge and the severity of the behavior involved. Individuals may face significant prison terms, high fines, and mandatory sex offender registration. As a result, contacting a sex crimes lawyer in Martinez when facing these charges may be wise.

Rape and Statutory Rape

California Penal Code § 261 defines rape as occurring when individuals have sexual intercourse with others without their consent, including situations where the alleged victims are incapable of consenting. For example, consent may not be possible if the persons involved suffer from mental disorders, disabilities, intoxication, or impairment by alcohol or controlled substances. Other circumstances that may indicate a lack of consent include the use of violence, force, or threats in the commission of the crime.

Rape is a felony under state law that may result in years in prison and high fines. Mandatory sex offender registration for life is one of the many collateral consequences that can result from a conviction.

How is Statutory Rape Charged in Martinez?

Another form of rape is statutory rape under Cal. Pen. Code § 261.5. This crime occurs when an adult has unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. Statutory rape can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, which depends primarily on the respective ages of the adult and the minor involved in the incident and does not mandate sex offender registration.

What is Sexual Battery?

Another common sex crime that typically has less severe repercussions than rape is sexual battery, detailed under Ca. Pen. Code § 243.4. This crime occurs when individuals touch the intimate parts of others without their consent for his or her sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse. In most cases, this offense is a misdemeanor that can result in up to six months in jail and a $2,000 fine.

However, in circumstances where the accused commits the offense using unlawful restraint, it becomes a felony offense. A felony conviction for sexual battery may result in up to four years in county jail and a $2,000 fine. Sex offender registration is also a possibility for those who are convicted of this offense. Due to the severity of these penalties, it is important for defendants to enlist the help of a well-practiced sex crimes attorney in Martinez.

Call a Martinez Sex Crimes Attorney Today

No matter the nature of the sex crime, the repercussions can be devastating. To manage this complicated matter, you may wish to consult with a Martinez sex crimes lawyer right away.

If you believe that you have become the target of an investigation into allegations of a sexual offense, you should not hesitate in getting crucial legal advice right away. Schedule your case evaluation today.