San Diego Statutory Rape Defense

Statutory Rape Charges in San Diego?
Contact a San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer.

Statutory Rape is the unlawful act of sexual intercourse with a female considereda minor (under 18) as long as there is a three year difference between the perpetratorand the minor. This charge is still considered rape even if the female gave herconsent. Depending on the circumstances, this could be a misdemeanor or a felonycharge.

In today's society with changing mores and the explosion of sexually oriented movie, television and social media content there are more and more statutory rape charges being filed. Such allegations should be taken very seriously and require the talents and dedication of experienced criminal defense lawyers such as those on our legal team because the crime can carry severe punishments and the requirement that a defendant become a lifetime sex crimes registrant. Factors such as those on an individual's background can exact a heavy toll on future prospects of employment or social success in the community because of the stigma of the charges. Because the definition of this crime is intercourse with a minor a conviction is possible even if the victim consented to the act because, under the law, a minor cannot give consent.

There are many cases in which the victim has not come forward or has been unwilling to come forward but his or her guardians have filed complaints, triggering the possibility of criminal charges. Generally speaking, statutory rape charges can be misdemeanors if the defendant is three or fewer years older than the victim. If the defendant is 21 or older and the victim is younger than 16 authorities can file felony allegations which can lead to substantial prison terms. In the hands of skilled criminal defense lawyers such as ours who are well-versed in the criminal justice system of San Diego County, statutory rape cases are defensible and acquittals, dismissals and reduced charges have been obtained for our clients. To aggressively and effectively defend you we recommend that you contact us as soon as possible to allow us to provide you your legal options and get an early start in pursuing your legal rights.

If you have a San Diego Statutory Rape charge, contact us today! Our team of San Diego Criminal Defense Attorneys can help you.