Los Angeles Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Statutory Rape in California

Statutory rape is a serious offense that can carry heavy consequences in California’s courts, including state prison sentences, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Statutory rape is considered rape even when it was consensual. It is the crime of engaging in sexual activities with a minor – a person who is under 18 years of age and is legally below the age of consent. Even if the minor initiated or agreed to the sexual activity, it is considered statutory rape.

The state of California has adopted a special defense for the accused wherein they truly believed – and had reason or just cause to believe – that the minor was of consenting age. This has proven invaluable to those individuals who engaged in sexual activity under the belief that the minor was over 18 years old.

Criminal Defense Attorney Barry Bernstein

A statutory rape conviction can ruin a person’s life. At the Law Offices of Barry Bernstein, we have the experience in this particular field and know what is needed to prove your innocence. Whether it is through inadequate evidence, unreliable witnesses or violated rights, we will take the correct stance to protect your rights and keep you out of jail.

Contact us about your legal matter today!