Finding the best sex crimes attorney in Orange County can be daunting, especially if you are unfamiliar with the legal system. In this blog post, we’ll explore what actions are considered sex crimes in California, how to find the best attorney for your case, and what to do if you are charged with a sex crime.
What Is Considered A Sex Crime In California?
In California, sex crimes encompass many actions, including rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, child molestation, and possession of child pornography. Rape is defined as non-consensual sexual intercourse, while sexual assault involves unwanted sexual touching or groping. Sexual battery includes any unwanted sexual contact that involves force or coercion, while child molestation involves sexual contact with a child under the age of 18. Possession of child pornography involves possessing or distributing any images or videos depicting minors engaged in sexual activities.
California Sex Crimes In Numbers
According to the California Department of Justice’s 2020 Crime in California report, there were 22,849 reported cases of forcible rape, 7,754 cases of other sex offenses, and 4,607 cases of statutory rape in California. These numbers represent a slight decrease from the previous year’s figures but still highlight the prevalence of sex crimes in the state.
The report also notes that specific populations are at a higher risk of experiencing sex crimes in California. For example, women accounted for 88.2% of all victims of forcible rape and 71.8% of all victims of other sex offenses. Additionally, minors under 18 accounted for 33.6% of all forcible rape victims and 61.5% of all statutory rape victims.
The California Department of Justice also provides a breakdown of sex crimes by county. In 2020, Los Angeles County had the highest number of reported sex offenses, with a total of 4,909 cases, followed by San Diego County with 1,676 cases and Orange County with 1,578 cases.
It’s important to note that these statistics only reflect reported cases of sex crimes, and the actual number of incidents is likely higher. Many sex crimes go unreported due to fear, shame, or a lack of trust in the justice system.
What Should I Do If I Have Been Charged With A Sex Crime?
If you are charged with a sex crime in California, acting quickly to protect your rights and mount an effective defense is essential. The first step is to contact an experienced sex crimes attorney by calling (949) 726-6000. One of our attorneys can advise you on your legal options and begin building a defense strategy. It’s essential to choose an attorney who specializes in sex crimes and has a proven track record of success in defending clients.
One way to find the best sex crimes attorney in Orange County is to research and read reviews from past clients. Many attorneys have websites that list their areas of expertise and their success rates. Additionally, you can ask for referrals from trusted friends or family members or reach out to legal associations and professional organizations for recommendations.
How Will I Be Defended?
When you are charged with a sex crime, your attorney will work to protect your rights and defend you against the charges. This may involve gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and negotiating with the prosecution. Your attorney may also work to have the charges reduced or dismissed or seek alternative sentencing options that can minimize the impact of the charges on your life.
It’s important to note that sex crimes carry severe penalties in California, including prison time, fines, and registration as a sex offender. If you are convicted of a sex crime, it can have long-lasting consequences for your personal and professional life. That’s why working with an experienced attorney who can mount an effective defense and protect your rights throughout the legal process is critical.
In conclusion, finding the best sex crimes attorney in Orange County is essential if you are facing charges for a sex crime in California. When searching for an attorney, it’s essential to look for someone who specializes in sex crimes and has a proven track record of success. If you are charged with a sex crime, you must act quickly and contact an attorney at Marley Law Firm who can protect your rights and build a strong defense. Remember, the consequences of a sex crime conviction can be severe, so it’s critical to take the charges seriously and mount an effective defense with the help of an experienced attorney. Call (949) 726-6000 immediately!