Experienced Lewd Acts with a Minor Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, CA, Protecting Clients Accused of Lewd or Lascivious Conduct Involving Minors
From the moment someone accuses you of committing a lewd act with a minor, you need to start defending your rights, reputation, and future. California courtrooms take these crimes very seriously, and a conviction will likely come with severe and lifelong consequences. When your career, relationships, and stability are on the line, you need to turn to the guidance of a skilled Los Angeles lewd acts with a child lawyer.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we understand the immense fear and uncertainty that accompany allegations of child-related sex crimes. Our firm is dedicated to defending clients accused of lewd or lascivious conduct involving minors, protecting their rights, and ensuring that their side of the story is heard.
If you are under investigation or have been charged under California Penal Code §288, use our online form to contact us immediately for a confidential consultation with an experienced lewd acts with a minor defense attorney in Los Angeles, CA. The earlier we become involved, the better our chances of building a strong and effective defense.
Understanding Lewd Acts With a Child Charges in California
Under California Penal Code §288, it is a felony to willfully commit a lewd or lascivious act upon a child under the age of 14 with the intent to arouse, appeal to, or gratify the sexual desires of either the adult or the child. The law applies whether or not there was physical penetration or intercourse; even minor physical contact or suggestive behavior can trigger charges.
There are several variations of this offense, including:
- Lewd acts with a child under 14 (PC §288(a)): The most commonly charged form, punishable by up to 8 years in prison per count.
- Lewd acts with a 14- or 15-year-old (PC §288(c)): Applies when the accused is at least 10 years older than the minor.
- Aggravated sexual assault of a child (PC §269): Involves violence, force, or multiple acts over time, punishable by 15 years to life.
- Continuous sexual abuse of a child (PC §288.5): Charged when repeated acts occur over a period of three months or more.
Our lewd acts with a minor defense attorney in Los Angeles, CA, understands what is at risk in sex crime cases, and we are prepared to do whatever we can do minimize or beat the potential consequences you are facing.
The Consequences of a Lewd Acts With a Child Conviction
A conviction for lewd acts with a child in California can result in life-changing consequences. Courts and prosecutors treat these cases harshly, and penalties often go far beyond incarceration. Depending on the nature of your charges, the consequences of a conviction can include:
- State prison: Up to 8 years for a single count, and 15 years to life for aggravated offenses or repeated acts.
- Lifetime sex offender registration: Mandatory under California’s Megan’s Law, making your information publicly available.
- Probation conditions: Including mandatory counseling, restrictions on contact with minors, and electronic monitoring.
- Loss of parental rights: Conviction can impact custody, visitation, and family court decisions.
- Heavy fines and restitution: Courts may impose substantial financial penalties.
- Deportation: Non-citizens convicted of lewd acts face mandatory removal from the U.S.
Additionally, a conviction can come with collateral consequences from outside of the courtroom. Even after you were to pay your debt to society by enduring the penalties listed above, you still may struggle with difficulties gaining employment, housing or education loans. Thankfully, there are methods of challenging these charges with a Los Angeles lewd acts with a child lawyer.
Possible Defense Strategies From an Experienced Los Angeles Lewd Acts With a Child Lawyer
We understand that every case has two sides, and we will fight to make your voice heard throughout your defense. We also understand that many of these case stem from accusations stemming from misunderstandings, emotional exaggerations, or false claims. Because of this uncertainty that comes with these case, we may be able to develop defenses for you such as:
- False allegations: Exposing fabricated claims driven by revenge, custody battles, or manipulation
- Lack of intent: Demonstrating that any alleged contact or behavior was not sexually motivated
- Insufficient or unreliable evidence: Pointing out the lack of physical evidence, inconsistencies, or contradictions in testimony
- Improper questioning of minors: Highlighting coercive or suggestive interview tactics by investigators or therapists
- Mistaken identity: Showing that you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator
- Constitutional violations: Challenging illegal searches, coerced confessions, or denial of due process
- Alibi or impossibility: Proving you could not have been present at the time of the alleged act
Our team will act on your behalf to consult with expert witnesses, psychologists, and investigators to gather all of the evidence and information we need to craft the strongest defense possible. While we represent you, you will have peace of mind knowing you have an experienced team looking out for your best interests.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we provide comprehensive, compassionate defense for clients accused of lewd acts with a child. You can expect a Los Angeles lewd acts with a child lawyer from our office to provide you with legal services, including:
- Pre-filing intervention: Acting early to prevent charges from being filed whenever possible.
- Case investigation: Gathering witness statements, forensic evidence, and documentation to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Strategic defense planning: Crafting a customized defense based on your specific circumstances.
- Aggressive courtroom advocacy: Cross-examining witnesses, challenging improper evidence, and fighting for acquittal.
- Negotiation and mitigation: Seeking reduced charges, probation, or alternative sentencing when appropriate.
- Confidential representation: Protecting your privacy throughout the entire process.
In addition to comprehensive legal support, we will continue to support you through personalized services to guide you through the defense process.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney as Your Lewd Acts with a Minor Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, CA?
It can be extremely overwhelming to face serious criminal charges like those of being accused of lewd acts with a child. While we fight for you through the criminal justice system, we will also support you with services including:
- Personalized representation from a lawyer who genuinely listens and cares
- 24/7 availability for urgent situations and ongoing support
- Strategic negotiation and trial experience in both state and federal courts
- Discreet, confidential handling of sensitive allegations
At our law firm, you can receive the respect, compassion, and dedication you deserve from your criminal defense attorney. The sooner you contact us, the sooner you can begin receiving the help you need.
Contact a Los Angeles Lewd Acts With a Child Lawyer Today
If you are being charged with the crime of committing lewd acts with a child, now is the best time to use our online contact form. Schedule your initial consultation with a lewd acts with a minor defense attorney in Los Angeles, CA, and begin fighting for your future.
