Child Abuse & Molestation

 

In California as in most states, the definition of what constitutes a “child abuse” has been greatly expanded. Quite often, child abuse cases are prosecuted rigorously by the District Attorney. But unfortunately in many cases, even the accusation of committing a child abuse can ruin a person’s reputation in the community and affect the way the person is perceived by the police, by society and even by their own family. The accusation of a child abuse case is always very serious and should never be treated lightly.

 

Child abuse cases include, but are not limited to the following:

• Child molestation
• Rape
• Lewd acts
• Indecent exposure on a child
• Sexual battery
• Child pornography
• Statutory rape

 

A conviction of one of these crimes or other sex offense can result in life-altering consequences. In some instances a sex offense conviction could count as a “strike” under the “3-strikes and you’re out” law, or if it is serious enough, could constitute a “1-strike and you’re out” subjecting you to 25 years to life in prison on a first conviction.

 

In addition to jail time, upon conviction of most sex offenses, the client is subject to a lifetime penalty of sex offender registration. There has been a flurry of news reports showing how horrible many sex offenders, even those whose convictions occurred many years ago, are treated by their communities and how they are forced to leave their homes. Because we recognize the difficulty of defending those accused of sex offenses and the harsh consequences of conviction, it is of the utmost importance that you defense be handled effectively and competently by an attorney proficient in this area of law. 

 

It is important to remember that some of these sex crimes are charged as misdemeanors, others as felonies. It is the prosecutor who will initially determine the type of charge, but that is where experienced defense attorneys can best assist their clients. Oftentimes, the best defense attorneys are able to negotiate dispositions where the client avoids a jail sentence or a felony conviction. 

 

If you or a loved one has been accused of such a crime, it is imperative that you seek knowledgeable and experienced attorneys. To contact the Law Offices of Grech & Firetag, please click here.