What Do I Do If I Have Been Accused Of Sexual Molestation? Sex crimes are prosecuted aggressively in Riverside because the public demands the state obtain a conviction and bring the “bad guy” (sex offender) to justice. The public sees you (the defendant) as guilty simply because he or she is accused of child molestation. You must act quickly to prevent your case from becoming an “example” by the state for the public’s benefit.
If you have been accused of sex crime, there is a great deal at stake. You need to take these charges very seriously and you need an attorney to represent you who will take the charges just as seriously. The criminal defense attorneys at Greenberg & Greenberg, APLC will work diligently to uncover the truth, to clear your name, or reach a very favorable resolution for you. Contact our office at (951) 274-0003 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
California Sexual Molestation FAQ
Sexual molestation refers to the abuse of a child for the gratification of the perpetrator. In many cases, false accusations or misunderstandings can take on a life of their own and ruin a person’s reputation and future, even if the charges are eventually dropped. For that reason, it is vital that you act immediately to defend yourself by hiring an aggressive defense attorney.
Below are some common questions about sexual molestation in California.
What is sexual molestation? – This is a broad area of law that encompasses several different criminal statutes. It describes sexual acts with a minor and it is commonly referred to as child molestation.
What are some examples of sexual molestation? Common criminal charges falling within the category of child molestation include but are not limited to:
- Statutory rape
- Lewd or lascivious acts on a child
- Sexual battery
- Continuous sexual abuse of a child
- Incest
- Sexual exploitation of a minor
- Intercourse or penetration with any object
- Oral copulation
- Touching a child for sexual gratification
- Exposing yourself to a child or having a child expose himself or herself
Does the alleged perpetrator have to touch the child’s genitals to be found guilty? – No, touching a child’s genitals is not required to be charged with a sex offense and found guilty.
Is communicating with a minor for the purpose of sex a crime? – Yes, if you send sexually explicit material or show a minor sexually explicit material you can be found guilty of child molestation under certain statutes. Attempting to arrange a meeting with a minor to engage in lewd acts can also result in a sexual offense charge.
Does the child’s age affect the charge? – In some cases, the child’s age does affect the charge. For example, if a minor is 16 or 17 years old, the charge may be prosecuted as sexual battery or statutory rape instead of child molestation. However, the consequences can be just as grave including registering as a sex offender if you are found guilty of the charge.
What is Megan’s Law? – If you are convicted of child molestation, you will be required to register as a sex offender according to Megan’s Law. This is a lifetime requirement. Your name, address, and photograph will be available to the public through an online database. Failure to register is a felony that carries its own punishment.
Does California’s three-strikes law apply to sexual molestation charges? – Yes, child molestation qualifies for the three-strikes law. In some cases, a single sexual encounter can result in multiple sexual charges. If you are found guilty, you could have three strikes from a single sexual encounter with a child.
Should I meet with the police to discuss accusations against me? – No, do not discuss accusations of child molestation with the police without an attorney present. You have the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present regardless of whether you are in custody or you have been arrested. You are not helping yourself by trying to “tell your side of the story.” Contact our office immediately if the police want to question you regarding an accusation of any sex crime.
Is sexual molestation a felony or a misdemeanor? – It depends on the type of sexual offense, the age of the child, and the penal code for the crime. Depending on the circumstances, you could be faced with a felony or a misdemeanor charge.
What is the punishment for a child molestation charge? – If you are found guilty, you face fines, prison, jail, probation and registration as a sex offender. Prison sentences depend on the charge and your previous criminal history; however, some convictions can result in a sentence of 25 years or more in prison. Because the penalties for a conviction of child molestation are severe, you need an experienced sex offense defense attorney on your side as soon as possible to begin building an aggressive and strong defense to the charges.
Are You Facing A Sexual Molestation Charge In Riverside, California?
If you are facing a charge for sexual molestation, it is important that you speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Contact our office at (951) 274-0003 to speak with an experienced defense lawyer. We want to learn the facts of your case, so we can do everything within our power to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Sexual molestation cases require a strong response to the state’s case. Our skilled attorneys understand what is necessary and work quickly to evaluate the evidence, and build a strong defense strategy. Do not trust your freedom to an attorney with little or no experience representing clients in sex offense crimes. Choose an attorney with the skill, knowledge, and experience to protect your freedom. Choose Greenberg, Greenberg & Kenyon APLC!
