If you’re facing a sex crime charge in Southern California, you should know that this state imposes some of the nation’s harshest penalties for sex crimes. Being convicted of a sex crime such as rape or assault with the intent to commit a sex offense can result in serious consequences.
Registration
One of the toughest things that those who are convicted of a sex crime will have to face is registering with the state database of registered sex offenders, in accord with Megan’s Law. This database is available online for anyone to view, and local law enforcement agencies are also provided with information about all convicted sex offenders in the area. Home address information is displayed, and notices of moves and name changes must be reported so the database can be updated whenever needed.
In addition, the stigma of being a registered sex offender can weigh heavily on those who are required to register. Finding adequate employment and housing may also prove to be incredibly difficult after someone’s name and identifying information is published on the registry.
Various serious sex crime offenses will result in lifetime registration as a sex offender. That means that even if someone is convicted of a sex crime when they’re 20, that conviction will follow them around and inhibit their progress at every phase of your life—even when they’re 90 and spend most of their time on porch rocking chair, they’ll still have to be registered as a sex offender.
Jail time
Many sex crimes carry with them penalties of jail time. Even misdemeanor sex crimes, such as indecent exposure, improperly touching a child, prostitution, and solicitation can result in up to a year in jail.
Felonies, on the other hand, are even more serious. Penalties can vary widely from one year to life in jail. The circumstances of each case, as well as the strength of the attorney’s defense on the defendant’s behalf, and various other factors will ultimately determine the defendant’s fate upon conviction of a felony sex crime.
Common examples of felony sex crimes include sexual battery, rape, and distribution of child pornography. Even sexting can be charged as a felony according to California law, particularly if it involved the sexual exploitation of a minor, child pornography, or communicating with a minor with the intent of committing a lewd act.
Worried about a sex crime charge?
If you’ve been arrested and accused of committing a sex crime, act now. Your case isn’t hopeless, even if you did commit the crime—your attorney can work on your behalf to make sure you are given the lightest possible sentence. You might even be able to avoid having to go to jail or having to pay crippling fines. No matter whether you’re innocent or guilty, you need to hire the best sex crimes attorney in Southern California—Dan Chambers of the Chambers Law Firm.
Prospective clients may request a free consultation by calling 714-760-4088, emailing dchambers@clfca.com, or by using the chat box below.
