Riverside Statutory Rape Defense Attorney

In California, it is illegal for an adult to have sex with a minor (a person under the age of 18). It does not matter to law enforcement whether or not this was entirely consensual. As long as the person is considered a minor then it is a serious sex crime. Statutory rape, also known as underage sex, can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony offense depending upon the age difference between the victim and the defendant. If there is only a three year age difference then a misdemeanor will likely be charged. However, if there is more than a three year age difference, or the victim is under 16 and the defendant is over the age of 21, then the crime can be charged as a felony.

Statutory Rape Charges in Riverside

In California, mutual consent cannot be used as a defense because anyone under the age of 18 is not legally allowed to consent to sex. A person who has had sex with a minor is typically only turned in to the police once the victim’s parents or guardians find out. It does not matter whether or not the victim wants to press charges or if the victim lied about his or her age - you may still be charged with statutory rape. When facing statutory rape charges the first step you should take in order to safeguard your legal rights is to hire an experienced Riverside statutory rape lawyer. At the Law Offices of Gregory H. Comings we protect clients accused of statutory rape in Riverside County.

Penalties for Statutory Rape

Statutory Rape (3 year age difference):

Misdemeanor
Up to 1 Year in Jail
Fine
Restitution
Counseling
Probation
Community Service
AIDS Education Classes
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration

Statutory Rape (more than a 3 year age difference):

Misdemeanor or Felony
Up to 1 Year or More in Jail or Prison
Fine
Restitution
Counseling
Probation
Community Service
AIDS Education Classes
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration

Statutory Rape (victim under 16, defendant over 21):

Felony
Up to 4 Years in Prison
Fine
Restitution
Counseling
Probation
Community Service
AIDS Education Classes
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration

Protect Yourself by Hiring a Sex Crime Lawyer Today

By speaking with a knowledgeable Riverside sex crime attorney at our firm you can learn more about your legal rights and how we are able to protect you. Each one of our Riverside statutory rape attorneys provides a strong commitment and dedication to each and every one of our clients. As professional lawyers it is always are goal to provide a successful outcome and case win. As dedicated Riverside statutory rape lawyers we want you to feel comfortable in knowing that we have only your best interests in mind. Please contact a Riverside sex crimes attorney at our firm immediately for a free case consultation. At our firm, we provide excellent strategic defense for clients throughout the Riverside area.

Contact a Riverside statutory rape defense lawyer at our firm today for a confidential review of your case.