San Bernardino & Riverside Statutory Rape Attorneys

A sex crime is participation in a sexual activity that is illegal according to state or federal law.  Statutory rape is any participation in a sex act or sexual intercourse with a minor (person below the legal age of consent).  Unlike other forms of rape, statutory rape may not involve physical or psychological force.  In fact, the minor may consent to the sex acts.  However, because the minor is below the legal age of consent, he/she is legally incapable of giving permission or consent.  The victim of statutory rape may be male or female.   

Statutory rape charges may be brought against a person by the minor’s parents or the state in which the sex acts took place.  These charges can be enhanced or reduced depending upon the minor’s age.  Generally, if the offender was close in age to the minor, the charges will be reduced.  If the offender is much older than the minor, or if the minor is below the age of 14, the charges can be enhanced.  Due to the societal implications surrounding statutory rape charges, leading district attorneys and law enforcement aggressively prosecute possible offenders.  All accusations of statutory rape are vigorously investigated.

If a person is convicted of statutory rape, he/she faces a variety of harsh legal penalties.  These penalties can include:  imprisonment, monetary fines, probation, community service, court ordered rehabilitation, and mandatory registration as a sexual offender.  Once a person is listed on the public sex offender registry, he/she may have limited employment, housing, and schooling opportunities.

Aside from legal consequences, a person convicted of statutory rape faces the negative stereotype of being labeled a sex offender by family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors.

Riverside and San Bernardino Sex Crimes Law Firm

If you have been charged with statutory rape in San Bernardino or Riverside, it is important that you speak with a reputable sex crimes attorney.  An experienced sex crime attorney can protect your individual rights and advise you of your legal options.  In Riverside, statutory rape is a very serious offense, and should never be taken lightly. 

Hanson, Hales, Gorian & Bradford has successfully represented clients throughout Riverside who have been charged with sex crimes.  In some cases, Attorney Gorian has been able to negotiate with prosecutors to have sex crime charges and sentences reduced. 

Contact Hanson, Hales, Gorian & Bradford today!