A sex crime is a sexually-natured illegal act. Though there are many types of sex offenses, all are taken seriously and are strictly punished by local courts. Highly-respected Newport Beach sex crime lawyer, Scott D. Henry, believes everyone deserves effective legal representation when facing criminal charges. That is why he and his team aggressively fight for the rights, dignity, and freedom of individuals charged with these offenses. If you have been accused of illegal sexual behavior, you need a criminal defense attorney who knows how these offenses are prosecuted locally. Our team has extensive knowledge of local law and procedure and could provide you with an effective defense strategy specific to your case.
Common Sex Crime Offenses
Sex crimes are a high priority for law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges in the Newport Beach area. Some of these offenses commonly include:
- Rape
- Statutory rape
- Marital rape
- Child molestation
- Prostitution
- Pimping
- Pandering
- Lewd conduct
- Sexual assault
- Indecent exposure
- Internet crimes with pornography
Being accused of an illegal sexual act can be a traumatic, life-changing experience. Our entire team at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry is here to help you through this. We could advise you of your rights, the specifics of the charges you are facing, and what steps to take in moving forward.
What is Statutory Rape?
Statutory rape is sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 18. It is still a crime if the minor lies about his or her age. The prosecution may also proceed in charging the adult with the crime without the minor’s cooperation or acknowledgment of the act. When the adult is a teacher or priest, there are stricter penalties.
What is Prostitution, Pimping, Pandering, and Solicitation?
Prostitution, pimping or pandering and solicitation fall under California Penal Code 647(b) PC.
This law defines prostitution as an individual receiving money or something of value to perform a sexual act, including intercourse. Pimping is soliciting pandering or prostitution on behalf of someone else.
What is Lewd Conduct?
Lewd conduct falls under California Penal Code 647(a) PC, which covers a variety of offenses. Most lewd conduct cases involve oral sex in public, exposing genitals in public, or public masturbation. Police target public restrooms or beaches and use undercover officers to witness the act. It is common for the accused and the police officer to have conflicting statements. A solid defense is critical to a successful resolution of lewd conduct charges.
Are Sex Crimes Charged as Misdemeanors or Felonies?
Sexual crimes can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies. Newport Beach prosecutors and judges take sexual crimes seriously and punish them accordingly. One severe consequence is the mandatory reporting set forth by Megan’s Law. The Orange County District Attorney has a specific unit that thoroughly investigates and prosecutes individuals accused of offenses that fall under Megan’s law.
In addition to court-imposed penalties, individuals convicted of a sex crime are at a high risk of losing their job and personal relationships. If the offense falls under Megan’s Law, reporting is mandatory. The convicted individual must have his or her residence listed on numerous sex offender websites available to the public.
Our local attorneys fully understand the devastating, long-term effects that a sex crime conviction may have. That is why we could proactively investigate all aspects of the case. Depending on our findings, we could also work to have charges reduced or dismissed, minimizing the adverse effects of a conviction.
Common Penalties for Sex Crime Convictions in Newport Beach
Local courts are well-known for handing down strict penalties for these convictions. An individual convicted of a sex crime may receive penalties that include:
- Jail
- Prison
- Parole
- Probation
- Lifetime registration as a sex offender
- Permanent conviction on your record
- Fines
- Restitution
- Counseling
We know what is at stake for you and your family. Mr. Henry and his team of lawyers have extensive knowledge and experience representing clients in sex crime cases. We know how they are investigated and prosecuted, so we could effectively defend you and your rights.
Call a Newport Beach Sex Crime Attorney Today
A conviction of a sex crime can have a lasting, serious, and negative impact on an individual’s future. Our highly-regarded team at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry has extensive experience handling a wide variety of sexual offense cases. We could diligently research your case, look for gaps and inconsistencies in the evidence, and find any loopholes in the system that could help clear your name. A solid defense could include an in-depth investigation of the facts, circumstances, and any individuals involved.
Our law firm is highly experienced with sex crime defense and has been successful in often proving the alleged act either did not occur or that the defendant was overcharged. Contact Newport Beach sex crime lawyer, Scott D. Henry, and his team today if you have been charged with illegal sexual conduct. We could fight tirelessly to help protect your rights, clear your name, and secure your freedom.