Newport Beach Sex Crimes Lawyers

Coercive situations that can lead to California rape charges include:

• A man having sexual intercourse with a woman who is passed out drunk;
• A doctor “tricking” their patient to have sex with him by telling them it’s the only way to cure a particular illness;
• A police officer telling a person they pulled over that they will let them go if they have sex.

Sex crimes Penalties in California

The consequences and stigmas that follow a sex crime conviction are generally severe. For example, in California, rape is penalized with 3 to 8 years in state prison. If the alleged victim was a minor at the time of the act, the conviction is 7 to 13 years.

The penalties for sexual offenses in California can vary depending on the specific charge, prior criminal history, and circumstances of the crime. A conviction can result in:

• Imprisonment: Depending on the offense, you could face several years in state prison.
• Fines: Substantial fines may be imposed, adding to the financial burden of a conviction.
• Sex Offender Registration: Many sexual offenses require individuals to register as sex offenders, which can impact housing, employment opportunities, and relationships.
• Probation: Some convictions may lead to probation, requiring regular check-ins with law enforcement and adherence to strict conditions.

Legal Defenses Against Sexual Offense Charges

There are cases where innocent people are wrongly accused of rape. There are several legal defenses to rape allegations.

Some of these defenses include:

• False accusations from the accuser
• Honest and reasonable belief of consent to intercourse
• The actual intercourse did not happen
• Insufficient evidence
• Mistaken identity

Reach out to our experienced sex crimes attorneys today for a free consultation! Call us at (949) 251-0330 or fill out our online form now!

How We Protect Your Rights

When facing serious allegations such as sexual offenses, having a robust defense is crucial. Our Newport Beach sex crimes lawyers employs a comprehensive approach to ensure that every angle of your case is meticulously analyzed and effectively presented.

The foundation of any solid defense starts with a detailed investigation. Our team will conduct a thorough examination of the facts surrounding your case, then, wedevelop a customized defense strategy that aligns with your circumstances.

If your case goes to trial, you need a legal team that is prepared to fight for you. Our attorneys bring a wealth of courtroom experience, which enables us to present strong arguments or negotiate plea deals if appropriate.

Throughout the legal process, we prioritize open communication and support. You will be kept informed about your case’s progress and any developments that arise. We believe that being involved and informed is crucial for your peace of mind.

Mitigating Factors in Sex Crimes Allegations

Mitigating factors in sex crimes charges in California can significantly influence the outcome of a case. These factors can lead to reduced sentences, plea deals, or even dismissal of charges.

Here are some key mitigating circumstances that may be considered:

• Lack of Criminal History: A defendant with no prior criminal record may receive more lenient treatment from the court. A clean history can suggest that the accused is not a habitual offender, which may lead to a lighter sentence.
• Consensual Relationship: If the alleged offense occurred in the context of a consensual relationship, this can serve as a mitigating factor. The nature of the relationship and the age of the parties involved may be considered.
• Age of the Defendant: Younger defendants, particularly those under 21, may receive more lenient sentences due to their age and potential for rehabilitation. The court may view them as still developing and more amenable to change.
• Mental Health Issues: Defendants with documented mental health conditions may have their situations taken into account. If a mental health issue contributed to the behavior leading to the charges, this can be a significant mitigating factor.
• Lack of Intent or Harm: If the defense can demonstrate that there was no intent to cause harm or that the actions were misinterpreted, this can mitigate the severity of the charges.
• Remorse and Rehabilitation Efforts: Showing genuine remorse for the actions and taking steps toward rehabilitation, such as therapy or community service, can positively influence a judge’s or jury’s perception.
• Circumstances of the Incident: Factors such as coercion, misunderstanding, or being under the influence at the time of the incident may also serve as mitigating circumstances. If the situation leading to the charge was atypical or uncharacteristic, it could affect the case's outcome.

​Contact Our Sex Crimes Attorneys

If you have been charged with sex crimes, it is vital to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. The attorneys at Corrigan Welbourn Stokke founded this firm with a mission to bring the best criminal defense options to Orange County.

Our attorneys have extensive trial experience and have handled high-profile cases involving political figures, business executives, and celebrities. Our legal team also consists of three former prosecutors, so we understand the strategies that the other side will attempt to use. This experience equips us to develop strong and strategic defenses for our clients.

Let our attorneys get started on your case today! Contact our sex crimes lawyers today for a free consultation at (949) 251-0330.