Sex crimes charges are taken very seriously by the criminal justice system in San Diego. If you have been charged with or accused of a sex crime, it is crucial that you have an experienced criminal defense legal team at your back to defend your rights and interests. With charges for sex crimes, you may be facing serious legal penalties if you are convicted. However, when you work with a trusted San Diego sex crimes lawyer, then you can build a strong case that could result in the charges against you being reduced or dropped altogether.
If you have been charged with a sex crime, one of the most important steps you can take is to immediately contact one of our experienced San Diego sex crimes lawyers to discuss your case. At Bernal Law, San Diego sex crimes Attorney Pedro Bernal, Esq. is skilled and ready to fight for your rights and interests.
What Are Specific Sex Crimes Penalties You May Face in California?
Given the social stigma attached to sex crimes, a person who is convicted of one of these crimes could face serious repercussions on their professional and personal relationships and even their educational pursuits.
In addition to having your reputation damaged along with your ability to work certain jobs or live in certain areas, you may be facing serious legal consequences if you are convicted. Some common sex crimes penalties our clients face in California are as follows:
Lewd Conduct
Individuals may be charged with lewd conduct if they personally engage in such conduct or solicit another person to do so. All instances of lewd conduct under Penal Code 647 are charged as misdemeanors. This means they carry a maximum penalty of one year in county jail. Depending on the circumstances of your specific case, if you are convicted of lewd conduct, you may be required to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law.
Child Pornography
The production, distribution, or possession of child pornography is prohibited per federal law (18 U.S.C. §§ 2252, 2252A, 2256, 2260) and state law (California Penal Code § 311.11). An individual who is accused of a child pornography offense may be charged with either a felony or misdemeanor depending on the specific facts of the case. Factors that would cause the prosecution to charge a suspect with a felony include any of the following:
- The number of images in their possession
- The specific acts depicted in images
- A prior conviction for the same offense
- Status as a registered sex offender
A misdemeanor charge for child pornography can result in up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $2,500. You may also face probation, community service, and lifetime registration as a sex offender. If you are charged with felony child pornography crimes, you may be facing imprisonment at a state prison. In aggravating circumstances, you may face up to six years in state prison. Aggravating circumstances include the following.
Sexual Assault and Sexual Battery
A misdemeanor sexual battery charge carries a maximum county jail sentence of six months up to one year, along with a fine up to $2,000, or $3,000 if the victim was an employee. A felony sexual battery can lead to a penalty of state imprisonment of two, three, or four years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
If you have been charged with a sex crime in California and are facing serious charges, all hope is not lost. By retaining the help of Bernal Law, our sex crimes lawyers in San Diego can strategize and help you build the best defense case for your unique case.
Sex Crimes Defense Strategies
There are a number of possible defenses that may apply in your specific case. Some potential defense strategies that may work for your case include the following:
- Victim consent
- Mistaken identity or mistake of age
- The marital exception in cases of statutory rape charges
- The prosecution did not have evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime
When you work with Bernal Law, our team of legal professionals will determine the best defense for your specific case and ensure that you have a fair trial where your rights and interests are protected.
Contact a San Diego Sex Crimes Lawyer Today
San Diego sex crimes Attorney Pedro Bernal, Esq. served as a Deputy District Attorney in the San Diego District Attorney’s Office for several years. If you have been charged with a serious sex crime, it is crucial you have the help of a legal professional who has the experience to build a strong defense for your case.
If you have been charged with a sex crime in San Diego, do not wait until the prosecution has already mounted a significant case against you. Contact Bernal Law to discuss the details of your case today by filling out our contact form or calling (619) 736-9092. Our sex crimes attorneys in San Diego also speak Spanish.