If you have been arrested for statutory rape, date rape or other sexual assault charge in California, you could face strict penalties as well as the collateral consequences of a sex crime conviction. Our attorneys at Harmon & Harmon provide clients with aggressive, experienced defense representation focused on combating serious charges and mitigating the potential penalties.

Discuss your rights with an experienced sex crimes defense attorney. Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation.

Date Rape ∙ Acquaintance Rape

Memory is a significant concern in cases involving alleged date rape or acquaintance rape. Although forensic evidence may reveal whether alcohol or certain drugs (such as so-called “date rape drugs”) came into play, there may be varying opinions regarding who provided the substance and if the alleged perpetrator was even aware of such conduct. The issue of consent becomes of critical concern in date rape or acquaintance rape cases.

Harmon & Harmon closely examine all factors involved, from forensic evidence to the alleged victim’s prior history of making false accusations for similar offenses.

Statutory Rape: Unlawful Sexual Intercourse

In California, you can face charges for unlawful sexual intercourse (statutory rape) even if it was consensual. That is because California law holds that anyone under the age of consent (18 years) cannot legally consent to sexual intercourse or any sexual act. California statutory rape laws even hold that intercourse between two minors is unlawful and can result in harsh criminal charges. We provide adult and juvenile crime defense representation for clients facing statutory rape charges and the potentially damaging effects of a conviction.

The severity of criminal charges and resulting penalties for a conviction will vary depending on the ages of the parties involved. The law holds distinction between statutory rape offenses involving individuals relatively close in age and offenses involving teens under 16 and adults over the age of 21. When the age gap is less than three years difference, misdemeanor statutory rape charges can result. However, if the age gap is more than three years, the offense can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony and a conviction can result in several years in prison and sex offender registration.

Contact Us for Trusted Criminal Defense

Trust in the solid experience and trial skills of our attorneys at Harmon & Harmon. If you have been arrested following allegations of date rape or reported statutory rape, contact us in Riverside, California. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case.