If you’ve been accused of statutory rape, you feel scared and unsure of what to do next—particularly if you have never been charged with a crime before.
You can be charged with statutory rape if the sex was consensual and if the other person was under 18 years old—the age of consent in California. Overzealous prosecutors have even brought charges against teen couples in which one partner is a minor and the other is legally an adult. “Romeo and Juliet” laws have been passed in a number of states in the U.S. to protect teen couples from being charged with statutory rape simply for having a slight age difference. However, California does not yet have such a law.
When you are charged with statutory rape, it can seem as though no one is on your side. That’s where the experienced lawyers at Greenberg, Greenberg & Kenyon will be there for you.
We’re here to give you the answers you need and to help you protect your rights and your freedom during this difficult time. We understand that going through the criminal justice system is stressful and that the odds can feel stacked against you. And we understand the stigma and embarrassment that can come with being charged with a sexual offense.
Statutory rape is a serious charge that should be fought with the help of a skilled attorney. While conviction doesn’t require registration as a sex offender, it does come with severe criminal and civil penalties. These can include imprisonment for one to four years and a fine of thousands of dollars. Statutory rape can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances.
Don’t fight your charges alone, and don’t wait to learn your rights and options. Call the Colton, CA statutory rape lawyers at our firm today for a free, confidential consultation.
