Facing charges for a sex crime in Chula Vista can be a stressful and upsetting experience. With the potential for severe legal and personal consequences, including long-term impacts on reputation, employment, and relationships, it is essential to understand your rights and options. A knowledgeable Chula Vista sex crimes lawyer can provide critical support, guiding you through the complexities of California’s legal system while working diligently to protect your future. By securing experienced legal representation, you can ensure that your side of the story is thoroughly represented, with a focus on building a solid defense that addresses every aspect of your case.
With years of experience in Chula Vista criminal defense and a background as a former prosecutor, Attorney Pedro Bernal brings a comprehensive understanding of how sex crime cases are prosecuted in California. His insight into prosecutorial tactics allows him to build a thorough defense, protecting his clients’ rights at every stage of the legal process.
What Is Considered a Sex Crime Under California Law?
Sex crimes can include offenses such as sexual assault, indecent exposure, child pornography, and solicitation. California’s legal framework for sex crimes is comprehensive, with specific statutes defining the elements of each offense and the penalties associated with them.
Some of the sex crimes cases we have helped our clients build defense cases against include the following:
- Rape, including cases of date rape and statutory rape
- Sexual assault and sexual battery
- Lewd acts with a child
- Child molestation
- Sexual abuse
- Child pornography
- Prostitution and solicitation
- Human trafficking
- Lewd conduct
- Indecent exposure
- Revenge porn
- Sexual extortion
- Failing to register as a sex offender
If you have been charged with any of the above sex crimes in California, you could be facing serious legal repercussions in addition to severely negative impacts to your reputation and daily life. Being convicted of a sex crime can lead to a life of strained relationships with friends and family, difficult getting a job, and even difficult renting an apartment.
If you have been accused of a sex crime in Chula Vista, California, you do not need to go through the legal process alone. Attorney Bernal will help you build a strong defense case and ensure your rights are protected throughout each step of the legal process.
Penalties You May Face If Convicted of a Sex Crime in Chula Vista
Being convicted of a sex crime in Chula Vista, California, carries severe penalties that can profoundly impact every aspect of your life. The penalties often vary depending on the nature of the offense, the circumstances of the case, and whether the accused has prior convictions.
The penalties you may be facing if you are convicted of a sex crime in Chula Vista include the following:
- Fines: Depending on your sentence, you may be required to pay a costly fine if you are convicted of a sex crime in California. This fine depends on your previous criminal record as well, if there is one.
- Probation: You may be required to serve probation for a period of time if you are convicted of a sex crime.
- Incarceration: Those who are convicted of sex crimes in Chula Vista may be sentenced to time in jail or prison.
- Registration as a Sex Offender: Depending on the nature of your crime and other factors, if you are convicted of a sex crime, you may be required by law to register as a sex offender, which often has to be renewed every year.
- Employment: If you are convicted of a felony sex crime, you will be required by law to disclose this on all employment applications.
- Firearms: If convicted of a felony sex crime in California, you may not own or possess a firearm.
To ensure you are able to have a fair trial and your rights are represented, contact our Chula Vista sex crimes lawyer today to begin building your defense.
Why Choose Bernal Law for Your Defense?
Facing a sex crime accusation in Chula Vista can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. With nearly two decades of legal experience, including years as a prosecutor, Attorney Pedro Bernal understands how these cases are built and prosecuted. This knowledge allows him to anticipate the strategies of the other side and craft a defense tailored to the unique details of your case. His approach ensures that every avenue is explored to protect your rights and your future.
Bernal Law brings dedication and discretion to each case, recognizing the sensitive nature of sex crime accusations. Whether you are dealing with charges of sexual assault, child pornography, or other offenses, Attorney Bernal will provide the focused and strategic representation you need. Call (619) 736-9092 or reach out through our contact form today to take the first step in defending your freedom.