Los Angeles Statutory Rape Attorneys

Sex With a Minor Lawyers in Los Angeles

If you or someone you know is facing allegations of having engaged in sexual relations with a minor, meaning someone who is under the age of 18, it is crucial to obtain the assistance of an experienced and aggressive attorney who has successfully handled sex crime cases in the past. The attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin have a wealth of experience defending clients who are charged with sex with a minor, which is referred to as statutory rape in California (Penal Code section 261.5). Just because the word "rape" is used in this context does not mean that the prosecutor has to prove that the sexual intercourse involved was the product of force. The word "rape" is used instead because in the eyes of the law someone who is under 18 cannot give valid consent to engage in sexual intercourse, so the intercourse is characterized as nonconsensual even though force was not used.

For purposes of incarceration time and financial penalties for statutory rape, the age of the individuals involved is of great importance in the state of California. If the person charged and the alleged victim are no more than three years apart in age, the crime is considered a misdemeanor. However if the person charged and the alleged victim are more than three years apart in age, the crime can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. Further, if the person charged is 21 years or older and the minor is under the age of 16, the crime is a misdemeanor or a felony and has a maximum prison time exposure of 4 years.

The sex with a minor attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin will not overlook any possible defense and will complete their own investigation instead of relying on law enforcement-directed investigations. Our firm employs an in-house investigator who will aggressively and thoroughly look into all the facts by obtaining and reviewing medical records and interviewing witnesses who will give us a complete account of the events. You do not have to go through this process alone, we understand that being charged with statutory rape can be frightening, confusing, and even embarrassing. We treat our clients with respect and sensitivity. Our legal team knows that many people are falsely accused of statutory rape and we will do everything in our power to obtain the best possible results in your case. Contact our offices today for a comprehensive and confidential consultation. We serve all areas of Los Angeles and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.