Sexual Assault / Battery

In the state of California, an individual who touches an intimate part of another person's body for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse may be charged with sexual battery under Penal Code 243.4 PC. This offense may be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on specific facts of the case. At The Justice Firm, our Los Angeles sexual battery lawyers work diligently to protect the freedom and legal rights of those accused of sexual assault. We understand the damaging impact a conviction can have on an individual's life not only in terms of criminal penalties, but reputation and career as well.

You may be charged with felony sexual battery if the alleged victim was not aware you were committing a criminal act and instead believed that he or she was touched for professional purposes such as in a medical examination, if the victim was unlawfully restrained, was seriously disabled or medically incapacitated while at the same time institutionalized, or in conjunction with any of the above was forced to touch intimate areas of your own or another person's body, or masturbate. If you have been accused of sexual assault no matter how serious or minor the situation may seem, it is vital you consult with a seasoned Los Angeles criminal defense attorney immediately.

Sexual assault, unlike rape, does not involve sexual intercourse or penetration. The alleged victim does not have to be a stranger, and can in fact be someone you have a relationship with, including a sexual relationship.

When in need of a capable Los Angeles sexual assault defense attorney, it is important to choose someone who is highly skilled and experienced in these types of cases. There are a variety of defense strategies which may be used to protect you from a conviction and the resulting criminal penalties, which include:

• You are innocent or were falsely accused
• There is insufficient evidence to support the alleged victim's claims
• The alleged victim consented to the sexual act

Sex crimes are some of the most difficult to prosecute because of the fact innocent individuals can easily be accused. For example, a teenager who has had problems with a coach at school or simply does not like the coach may accuse him or her of inappropriate touching or conduct. Unfortunately, an innocent individual may find him- or herself facing not only a ruined reputation and career, but criminal penalties which may include steep fines and jail/prison time. We believe in a dedicated approach and will investigate the charges against you, working hard to develop the strongest, most effective defense to ensure a good outcome. If you are under investigation and have not been charged, immediate action could prevent charges being filed. This is why it is so critical to contact a lawyer in the early stages.

The criminal penalties which may apply if convicted depend on whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Felony offenses are generally punished harsher than misdemeanor offenses.

If convicted for misdemeanor sexual battery, penalties include fines of up to $2,000, six months or one year in jail (depending on the circumstances), or both. A fine of up to $3,000 may apply if the victim was an employee.

A felony conviction will result in penalties which include a maximum fine of $10,000, two, three, or four years in prison, or both.

Additionally, whether convicted of misdemeanor or felony sexual assault (battery), you may be required to register as a sex offender for life under California Penal Code 290 PC. Sex offenders face a lifetime of hardship in regards to employment, housing, securing financing, even social stigma.

Sex crimes are some of the most serious anyone can be accused of. Society tends to "frown" on those who are labeled sex offenders; no one, particularly those who are innocent, want to spend years behind bars. At The Justice Firm we put all of our skill, knowledge, and extensive experience to work for every client we represent, working as hard to defend your freedom as we would our own family members. If you have been accused of sexual assault or batter, call us now at 310-914-2444 for unsurpassed legal guidance and representation.