The age of legal consent in California is 18. Any adult who has sex with a person who is not his or her spouse and who is under the age of 18 may be convicted of the crime of unlawful sexual intercourse, commonly referred to as statutory rape. In California, a minor may also potentially be convicted of the crime of unlawful sexual conduct, depending on his or her age and the age of the other minor child.

Statutory Rape Charges in Los Angeles

California Penal Code 261.5 specifies different ranges of offenses and penalties that vary depending on the age of the perpetrator and the minor. The Penal Code states:

• Sex with a minor under age 18 is a misdemeanor if the “perpetrator” is no more than three years older than the minor.
• Sex with a minor may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony if the minor is under 18 and the perpetrator is more than three years older than the perpetrator.
• Sex with a minor may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony if the minor is under 16 and the perpetrator is 21 or older.

Contact a Los Angeles Statutory Rape Defense Attorney Today!

If you have been arrested for statutory rape, it is critical that you protect your rights by retaining an experienced criminal defense attorney. For a vigorous defense, contact the Law Offices of Daniel R. Perlman in Los Angeles; call (310) 557-1700 or contact us by e-mail.

We will examine the facts of your case to prepare a strong defense on your behalf at trial or obtain leverage necessary to seek a favorable plea agreement. Whether you choose to take your case to trial or accept a plea agreement, we will zealously defend your rights to obtain the best outcome we are able to achieve on your behalf.

Defense Against Statutory Rape Charges in Los Angeles

We will help you understand your rights, the risks of going to trial and the consequences of accepting a plea agreement. We are mindful of key issues that may affect your rights:

• Will a plea to a sex crime require registration as a sex offender?
• If you are a licensed professional, could a guilty plea affect your license?
• If you are not yet a citizen, could a conviction lead to deportation?
• How would a felony conviction affect your rights and your future employment opportunities?
• What are your options and what risks and rewards do they potentially entail?

We offer a team of skilled negotiators and trial lawyers who are ready to advocate passionately on your behalf. We care about our clients and take significant measure to provide the strong defense they deserve.

Contact Us

To schedule a free consultation with one of our Los Angeles statutory rape attorneys, call (310) 557-1700 or contact us by e-mail.