Facing any kind of criminal charge is stressful, but when you’re accused of committing a sex crime, it’s like having your moral integrity and humanity put on trial. While the jail sentences and fines may be severe, the worst thing for most people convicted of a sex crime is having to face a destroyed reputation, lost friends, and a ruined family life. If you are facing sex crime charges, an experienced San Diego sex crimes lawyer will be able to protect your rights.

Since the consequences of a conviction for a sex crime are particularly difficult to deal with, one would think that prosecutors would carefully examine the allegations and available evidence before deciding to move forward with a case. But owing to the pressure to punish sex offenders, overzealous prosecutors often seek convictions against innocent people who are the victims of false accusations or sloppy police investigations.

For these reasons, McElfresh Law makes every effort to help our clients facing sex crime charges. We believe that we do our best work when the stakes are at their highest, and this couldn’t be truer than for sex crime cases. Contact us to talk to an experienced San Diego criminal defense lawyer about your charge today.

California Sex Crimes in Brief

The California Penal Code prohibits many kinds of sexual behavior. While the penalties range from moderate to severe—anyone convicted of these crimes will likely face stigmatization and difficulties in their personal and professional lives. For this reason, you should treat any of these charges seriously, and contact an attorney to help you with your case as soon as possible.

Below is some of the sexual conduct that is prohibited in California:

  • Sexual Battery — California Penal Code section 243.4 makes it illegal to touch another person’s intimate parts without their consent for the purpose of sexual gratification or arousal.
  • Statutory Rape — It’s illegal for an adult to have sex with a minor according to California Penal Code section 261.5.
  • Indecent Exposure — California Penal Code section 314 prohibits people from willfully exposing their breasts or genitals in order to offend someone else or to seek sexual gratification.
  • Lewd Conduct — According to California Penal Code section 647(a) it is illegal to touch your genitals or those of another person for the purpose of offending or satisfying a sexual urge. It’s also illegal to ask or encourage others to engage in lewd conduct in public.
  • Prostitution & Solicitation — California Penal Code section 647(b) prohibits people from exchanging money for sexual favors. Similarly, it’s illegal to solicit or offer prostitution.

How a San Diego Sex Crimes Lawyer Can Help

If you get convicted of a sex crime, you may face hefty fines and a lengthy jail sentence. While every case is different, your San Diego criminal defense lawyer may be able to fight your charges by challenging the evidence or testimony used against you or providing evidence that casts doubt on the prosecutor’s version of events. If you’re facing sex crime charges, you can call McElfresh Law today for a free and confidential consultation about your case at (858) 756-7107.

We can answer questions about your case, as well as:

  • Sex Crimes Investigations — We can help you understand the process of a sex crimes investigation, your rights, and why it’s beneficial to contact a San Diego sex crimes lawyer early in the process.
  • Sex Crimes Defenses — We can explain some of the common defenses used in sex crimes cases and which defenses might be successful for you.
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