Sex Crimes Lawyer Los Angeles
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 anysex 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.
