Sex crimes are taken seriously in Nevada County. Prosecutors often issue the most severe charges and seek the harshest penalties. A Nevada County sex crime defense attorney can help you understand your charges, options, and the legal process involved with a sex crime case.
Under California Penal Code Section 243.4 PC, sexual assault and battery is any non-consensual sexual conduct or behavior involving touching another person’s intimate body parts. Sexual assault and battery is a wobbler offense, meaning it can be charged by the prosecutor as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances of the case.
Under California Penal Code Section 261 PC, rape is non-consensual sexual intercourse with another person. Multiple intimate activities may be charged as rape in California, all of which involve lack of consent or force and sexual intercourse.
Under California Penal Code Section 311.11 PC, child pornography is illegal. Child pornography is any material, such as images and videos of masturbation, sexual intercourse, or exhibition of the genitals, involving a person under the age of 18. Additionally, the intent of child pornography must be to sexually stimulate the viewer. Thus, medical documents and information would not be considered child pornography.
Child molestation is defined as sexual acts with a child under the age of 18. This crime is also a wobbler. The child’s age is the determining factor for whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Under California Penal Code Section 314 PC, indecent exposure occurs when a person willfully exposes their genitals or naked body in a public location where other people may be offended or annoyed. This offense is also a wobbler. First-time offenders typically face misdemeanor charges; however, if a person has previous convictions, they may face a felony charge.
Under California Penal Code Section 646.9 PC, stalking involves harassing or threatening someone to the extent that they fear for their safety. Stalking is not considered a sexual offense, but it often accompanies these charges. As a wobbler charge, stalking may be a misdemeanor or a felony.
Prostitution is the act of sexual intercourse or performing a lewd act in exchange for money or other compensation. Solicitation of prostitution involves asking someone else to perform these acts for money or compensation. Under California Penal Code Section 647(b) PC, these crimes are typically misdemeanors.
Since sex crimes may be misdemeanors or felonies, their criminal penalties vary widely. In many situations, the consequences may depend on the alleged victim’s age, the accused’s criminal history, and other potentially aggravating factors.
Penalties for specific sex crimes include the following:
There are many other consequences for sex crimes, including a tarnished reputation, sex offender registration, and immigration problems, to name a few.
California requires many people who are convicted of sex crimes to list their names and photographs on the three-tiered sex offender registration system. The tier on which an offender is listed depends on the severity of the offense and the offender’s criminal history.
Tier 1: Requires sex offender registration for 10 years, or five years for minors
Tier 2: Requires sex offender registration for 20 years, or 10 years for minors
Tier 3: Requires lifetime sex offender registration
"Chris Walsh is a highly qualified and knowledgeable individual with an in depth understanding of his practice...I highly recommend his services."
Sex crimes charges are extremely serious. You should not deal with them alone. The laws that apply to these cases can be confusing and the penalties vary widely. It’s important to work closely with a Nevada County sex crime attorney who will stand by your side throughout the legal process.
Nevada County sex crimes defense lawyer Chris Walsh is a former prosecutor who now dedicates his career to fighting for those who have been accused of criminal offenses. He knows how prosecutors develop cases against defendants, so he can effectively create defense strategies that work.
Walsh Law will clearly and honestly communicate with you about what you’re facing. We will explain your charges and your legal options. Our Grass Valley sex crime lawyers will do whatever is necessary to clear your name and get your case dismissed or your charges reduced.
The sex offender attorneys at Walsh Law know how to develop defenses that attack the prosecution’s charges against you. We will create a unique defense strategy that addresses the specific facts in your case.
Some of the arguments we may make include:
The alleged victim’s cooperation is important, but not determinative. The alleged victim’s testimony is often crucial evidence in sex crimes cases; however, the prosecutor ultimately decides whether to proceed with the charges.
Your risk of being deported involves several factors, including your immigration status, the specific sex crime, your legal defense, and the outcome of your case. There are some sex crimes, such as rape, which may result in an automatic deportation. Others may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
While some people use rape and sexual assault interchangeably, they are different crimes in California. Sexual assault involves non-consensual touching of intimate body parts for sexual arousal or gratification. Rape is non-consensual sexual intercourse with another person. You may be charged with both crimes at once.
Prosecutors take sex crimes seriously in Nevada County. They will often issue the highest charge possible and seek the harshest consequences. It’s important to find a Nevada County sex crime lawyer who understands your situation and will work hard to protect you. Former prosecutor Chris Walsh knows how the state works in these cases, and he is now dedicated to helping people like you.
Call Walsh Law to speak with one of our sex crime attorneys at (530) 499-0645 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation today.