Experienced Statutory Rape Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, CA Protecting Clients Accused of Unlawful Sexual Conduct Involving Minors
Statutory rape charges can be daunting and overwhelming. Even an accusation can be enough to permanently damage your reputation. From the moment someone accuses you of such a crime, you need to take swift and decisive action to defend your rights, reputation, and freedom. A conviction for these crimes can permanently destroy relationships, reputations, and careers. When you are facing these kinds of charges, you need the skilled guidance of a Los Angeles statutory rape lawyer.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we have extensive experience building strong and strategic defenses for clients throughout California who are facing charges related to statutory rape, unlawful sexual intercourse, and related sex crimes throughout Los Angeles County and Southern California. We know how complicated these cases can get, often with them originating from misunderstandings or false assumptions. Thankfully, we will be by your side to challenge, investigate, and untangle the accusations you are facing.
If you have already been arrested for statutory rape or if you believe you will be charged for it soon, now is the best possible time to use our online contact form to schedule your free initial consultation with a statutory rape defense attorney in Los Angeles, CA.
Understanding Statutory Rape Charges in Los Angeles, CA
Under California Penal Code §261.5, statutory rape (also known as unlawful sexual intercourse) occurs when an individual engages in sexual intercourse with a minor under 18 years old who cannot legally consent to the act. Unlike other sex crime charges, an adult can still be charged with statutory rape even if both parties consented to having sex.
State law sorts statutory rape crimes into several categories, depending on the difference in age between both two parties:
- Misdemeanor statutory rape: When the age difference is less than three years.
- Wobbler offense (misdemeanor or felony): When the age difference exceeds three years.
- Felony statutory rape: When the minor is under 16 and the defendant is 21 or older.
No matter what kind of statutory rape charges you are facing, a Los Angeles Statutory Rape Lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney can provide you with the defense you need to combat the consequences of a conviction.
The Consequences a Statutory Rape Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, CA Can Shield You From
Our clients are often surprised at the full scope of consequences that can come from a statutory rape conviction. Even misdemeanor charges can come with serious consequences that shape the course of your entire future. As your Los Angeles statutory rape lawyer, we are committed to defending you from consequences such as:
- County jail or state prison: Up to one year for misdemeanor charges, or up to four years for felony statutory rape.
- Mandatory sex offender registration: Depending on the case, registration may be required under California’s tiered system.
- Probation conditions: Including counseling, community service, and restricted contact with minors.
- Financial consequences: Heavy fines and potential restitution payments.
- Professional and personal impact: Loss of employment, suspension of professional licenses, and irreparable harm to reputation.
A conviction for statutory rape can also come with collateral consequences, like difficulties with your immigration status, child custody arrangements, job and student loan applications, and even your ability to live in certain areas.
Additionally, even an accusation can be enough to damage relationships with friends, family, and peers. With so much on the line in these cases, we work tirelessly to do everything we can to help minimize or avoid these consequences with personalized defense strategies.
Possible Defense Strategies From an Experienced Los Angeles Statutory Rape Lawyer
Anyone facing statutory rape charges should know there are ways to defend themselves from a conviction. Every criminal defense case is unique, and the defense your statutory rape defense attorney in Los Angeles, CA should reflect those unique elements.
As your legal representation, we will review all of the information surrounding your case, look for any inconsistencies in the prosecution’s narrative, procedural errors or violations of your civil rights that could result in a dismissal or reduction of your charges. If your case requires a strong defense to beat your charges in court, we can explore the validity of defenses such as:
- Mistaken belief of age: In some cases, the defendant may reasonably have believed the alleged victim was 18 or older. Supporting evidence, such as text messages, photos, or witness testimony, can be crucial in proving this belief was genuine.
- False accusations: In family disputes, custody battles, or relationship conflicts, allegations may be fabricated for revenge or manipulation.
- Lack of evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Weak physical evidence, unreliable witness statements, or missing documentation can severely weaken their case.
- Improper police conduct: If investigators violated your constitutional rights during questioning or evidence collection, that evidence can be suppressed in court.
- Age proximity or consensual relationship: When the individuals are close in age, the court may consider alternative resolutions, such as reduced charges or diversion programs.
We know that time is of the essence in these cases, which is why we act fast to build the strategic defense you expect from your Los Angeles statutory rape lawyer.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
If you are facing statutory rape charges, every advantage you can get in your defense matters. Our law firm knows how to provide our clients with comprehensive and proactive support. We start our representation services by determining if the police acted unlawfully and by scrutinizing the evidence against you. Our process of reviewing this information includes:
- Reviewing all police reports, witness statements, and digital evidence
- Conducting independent investigations to uncover inconsistencies
- Consulting forensic and psychological experts when relevant
- Negotiating with prosecutors for charge reductions or diversion programs
- Preparing aggressive courtroom defenses when trial becomes necessary
These cases can quickly become legally and emotionally complicated, which is why we treat every client with the respect and compassion they deserve as we stand up for their rights through every stage of their defense process. This way, we can provide you with peace of mind that we are fighting for the best possible outcome in your defense.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney as Your Los Angeles Statutory Rape Lawyer?
When you need a statutory rape defense attorney in Los Angeles, CA, you want to know what you can expect from any law firm you are considering to defend you. Our criminal defense team knows what kind of defense is needed for statutory rape cases, we know the kind of support our clients need during these cases, and we know how to keep in constant communication with our clients to keep them informed about how we are serving them and how we anticipate your case to resolve.
Additionally, you can expect
- Aggressive legal representation: We begin defending your case immediately, even before formal charges are filed, to protect your rights at every stage.
- Strategic case planning and defense: We develop personalized strategies tailored to your circumstances, maintaining open and clear communication from start to finish.
- Empathy and compassion: We understand the emotional toll these cases take and are committed to helping you navigate them with dignity and determination.
All of our services are backed by a long history of success and experience from our legal team. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, you can expect legal protection, guidance, and commitment from our entire team.
Contact a Los Angeles Statutory Rape Lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Today for a Confidential Case Review
If you have been charged with statutory rape or you think you will be soon, do not wait another moment to contact our attorneys so we can start developing your personal defense strategy. Use our online contact form to schedule your free initial consultation today, and take the first step toward the outcome you deserve in your case.
