Los Angeles Statutory Rape Lawyer

Have you been accused of statutory rape?

If you or a loved one have been accused of statutory rape, it is imperative that you seek skilled legal counsel as soon as possible. In the U.S., it is illegal to engage in sexual relations with an individual who is below the age of consent. In California, the age is eighteen, making it punishable by law to have sex with a minor, even if the actor is also a minor. What is most heart-breaking about these cases is that the offender may have to permanently be placed on the sex offender registry.

California Penal Code § 261.5 provides the definition and penalties of statutory rape. They could be guilty of a misdemeanor for engaging in sexual intercourse with someone below the age of consent, if the actor was less than three years older or three years younger. The punishment for this could include up to one year in county jail. If the actor was three years older than the minor, they could be guilty of a misdemeanor or a felony. This could result in a one year sentence in jail or state prison. Also, if someone who was twenty-one or older could be guilty of a felony for having sex with a minor under the age of sixteen. This carries the harshest penalties or up to four years in prison.

Why do you need a Los Angeles statutory rape attorney?

The Law Offices of Robert Schwartz understand that a strong legal advocate is needed if accused of this crime. Even if the sexual relations were consensual, one of the individuals could be sent to jail for something they did not even know what unlawful. With over thirty-five years of experience, you can be confident that a Los Angeles sex crime lawyer from the team can provide you with the defense you need to avoid jail and retain your freedom.

Contact a Los Angeles statutory rape lawyer from the firm for a free consultation.