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  • Testimonials

    My case was a worst case scenario, when I called Todd for help I was a 48 year old professional with no criminal background. I knew I could rely on Todd as we had known each other for years and I knew him to be an excellent lawyer and well respected by his peers as a seasoned and skilled attorney. Todd informed me of what he expected to accomplish and the worst that could happen. I thought he was extremely patient and understanding with me and I was able to communicate with him whenever I needed. I felt completely protected throughout the entire process. The only thing I did not know about Todd was how incredibly experienced and knowledgeable he is and his unwavering commitment to protecting his clients. The result I received was well beyond my expectations. I was given a suspended sentence, probation and allowed to rebuild my life. I know without Todd I would never have received such a sentence. His ability to work with the prosecution, convince the Judge to do the right thing and his no nonsense manner impressed me and I recommend him to those who need the best criminal defense lawyer. — - Rob M.

    I’ve been a private investigator for over 15 years and I specialize in criminal defense cases. I’ve worked with hundreds of attorneys over the years and worked closely with Todd Melnik on several. I could count on one hand how many lawyers I would trust with my own family. Melnik is one. Many veteran attorneys care more about squeezing out your last dollar than defending you. Todd Melnik is passionate, diligent and presents cases for the best possible outcome. It’s a honor to have my name affiliated with his office. — - Leigh-Anne Salinas, Chief Investigator

    Todd, I can’t thank you enough and will never forget your hard work, tenacity and responsiveness during this seemingly unbearable time. I am grateful for the outcome you actualized, in addition to the second chance Jeffrey will now receive. I know my son was facing life in prison, but a 6 year deal was more than we had ever hoped for. Thank you so much for your hard work and caring so much about my son. — - Laura B.

    I was charged with five counts of assault weapon sales with gang allegations. Mr. Melnik took over my case as my criminal defense attorney. His availability to discuss my case was impressive. He always returns calls and is extremely professional. Immediately after accepting my case, Mr. Melnik conducted intensive research on the types of weapons I was being accused of. He wanted to make sure the weapons were in fact illegal in California. He discovered one of the weapons was legal and it was dropped from my charges. After multiple court appearances, and after conducting an interview with the ATF’s informant, Mr. Melnik discovered the he was not being truthful about my gang affiliation and the gang allegations were dropped. Mr. Melnik discussed my case with the District Attorney on several occasions. After first wanting to send me to prison, after discussions with Mr. Melnik for over a year, the District Attorney gave me a plea bargain in which I obtained three years probation with no jail time at all! Overall, Mr. Melnik is a very professional attorney with a lot of experience and an exceptional defense record. You can’t go wrong with him. — - Jose P.

    • Practices Areas

    Sex Crimes Lawyer Los Angeles

    Sex Offenses – An Overview

    Sex offenses contain a very broad range of conduct from non-contact offenses such as child pornography, pimping, flashing or exposing one’s self to another, to contact sex offenses such as child molestation, rape or sexual battery. If you or someone you know is being investigated or charged with committing a sex offense, contact Mr. Melnik to obtain the legal representation of an experienced criminal defense attorney. A confidential consultation is free. Be aware that the best defense of sex offenses is being pro-active and investigating as soon as possible. Let Mr. Melnik evaluate the evidence, have his investigator question witnesses and even the complaining witness before the case goes to court. This can be invaluable to your individual defense. The penalty for a sex offense can be incredibly harsh, but many defenses are available to you which can be explored with your attorney. Contact Mr. Melnik and speak to him today. A criminal defense attorney will tell you that its always better to contact and retain your lawyer sooner than later. Time can make the difference in your case.

    Rape, Sexual Assault, Date Rape & Statutory Rape

    Rape is considered a serious and violent offense and if convicted you will most likely go to state prison. Rape can be charged and occurs even if the sex partner was sleeping, drunk or passed out and didn’t give consent. Non-consensual sex acts are generally classified as rape. However, the terms “sexual abuse” or “sexual assault” are used as well.

    Date Rape is still considered rape even if there was no violence involved. Date rape is a commonly used term to describe unwanted sex between two people who know each other. The term Date Rape has no legal significance. Statutory rape is sexual activity with a person under the age of consent. For an adult over 18, the age of consent is 18 in the United States. The age of consent in Mexico is 12 and in Canada it is 14 for male/female sex. That is not a defense if you are from those countries and didn’t know the law here. Regardless of the circumstances, however, rape is rape, and there are serious penalties for individuals found guilty of these sex crimes. Sex offenses are the crimes most aggressively prosecuted after domestic violence these days. If you or someone you know is under investigation or has been arrested or charged for any sex crimes, you need to contact an attorney immediately. Call Mr. Melnik for experienced advice and a pro-active defense.

    Non-Violent Sex Offenses

    Some types of child molestation may be considered non-violent, but by legal definition, they are considered violent. Non-violent sex offenses most commonly are sexual battery, or unwanted touching, prostitution, and other lower grade contact offenses.

    Non Contact Sex Offenses

    Non-contact sex offenses generally do not involve body contact with another person. These cases include possession of child pornography, flashing, pimping and pandering, keeping a house of prostitution, solicitation of a prostitute Experienced criminal defense firms handle all types of nonviolent sex offense cases. The penalties for nonviolent sex offenses, although generally less severe than for violent sex offenses, can still range from fines and community service to felony charges and incarceration. If you have been arrested for a nonviolent sex offense, protect your rights by contacting a criminal defense firm regarding your defense.

    Sex Offender Registration

    Almost every significant sex offense carries the burden of registering as a sex offender for life. There are few ways to avoid this penalty and is mandatory if convicted of certain offenses.

    The Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), both federal acts, require sex offenders to register with law enforcement within 5 days of their birthday each year. Offenders deemed to be sexually violent predators must verify their addresses every 90 days. All states require sex registration. In other words, you can’t move to Maine or North Dakota to avoid registration. If you have questions about your registration requirements under the law, contact criminal law defense attorney Todd Melnik.

    False Allegations

    It is increasingly common for false allegations to be made in child sex cases as well as with rape allegations. With a child, an adult can usually have undue influence on a child and make them believe something has actually happened when it did not. Many times, these charges stem from one parent trying to gain leverage or harm the other parent. In rape cases, dark motives may be the cause of false allegations against someone. Investigation is crucial in these cases as soon as possible. Polygraphy can sometimes be used to exonerate a client. If you become the victim of false allegations yourself, whether the allegations are made in good faith or not, seek counsel immediately to defend yourself. Your future and reputation are at stake.