Former Sex Crimes Prosecutors Now Child Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers
A conviction for sexual assault against a child carries harsher penalties than a conviction for sexual assault against another adult. The sentence depends on the age of the child and the actions alleged. Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP has represented clients charged with serious crimes since 1987. Prior to opening our doors 25 years ago, our founding partners were prosecutors who worked in the sex crimes division of the district attorney’s office. We draw upon our valuable experience in sex crimes investigations and forensic evidence to lodge the best defense possible in your case.
Consent is not a defense
With the sexual assault of a child, consent becomes irrelevant to the case. The fact that the victim was under 18 years old at the time the sexual act occurred, which is the age of consent in California, is enough for the prosecution to prevail. However, teenagers may have an affirmative defense in some cases of consensual sexual conduct.
Sexual assault versus aggravated sexual assault
Acts considered sexual assault range from touching to penetration and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. The statutes governing sexual assault of a minor (someone under 18 years old) mirror the laws targeting adult victims, except that consent is not an element of the crime.
You can also be charged with aggravated sexual assault if the victim was under the age of 14 and at least 10 years younger than you. Aggravated sexual assault is always charged as a felony and typically results in more severe penalties than other sexual assault charges.
Sex offender registry
If you’re convicted of the sexual assault of a child, in addition to facing imprisonment, you face the lifelong obligation of reporting to law enforcement annually and of notifying them every time you move, change jobs or attend school. This information becomes public record and may be available through the online database maintained by California and federal agencies. The sex offender registry can amount to a lifetime punishment that restricts your employment, housing, education, relationships and freedom even after you’ve served your prison term. For this reason, our firm does all we can to protect you from these consequences.
Build a strong defense against sex crimes allegations
Learn more about your rights if you are charged with a sex crime against a child. Call Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP at 888-579-4844 or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation with our LA firm. Contact us any time seven days a week, 24 hours a day.