Understanding Statutory Rape Laws in Orange County
Legal Representation for Statutory Rape Charges in Southern California
What Constitutes Statutory Rape in California?
Defining Statutory Rape: California's Legal Perspective
Although a common charge for those in their twenties and thirties, statutory rape offenses can be charged against anyone 18 years of age or older who engages in any type of sexual act with a minor. There are countless situations in which persons accused of committing statutory rape are completely unaware that they engaged in sexual acts with a minor. Regardless, those who are convicted can be ordered to spend time in jail, pay thousands of dollars in fines, and register for inclusion on California’s sex offender registry.
Why You Need an Experienced Attorney for Statutory Rape Charges
If you have been accused of statutory rape in California, it is crucial to hire an experienced statutory rape attorney. Statutory rape is a serious crime that can carry significant penalties, including jail time and probation. A statutory rape attorney can help you protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Consult with an Orange County Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer
At the Law Offices of Randy Collins, a skilled Orange County statutory rape defense lawyer can help you better understand your charges as well as any options you may have available. By taking advantage of a free consultation, you may receive information about statutory rape charges that could greatly affect your case outcome.
Contact an Orange County Attorney to Discuss Your Statutory Rape Case
Call (844) 285-9559 or fill out our contact form to speak with an Orange County statutory rape attorney about your case for free.
Statutory Rape: The Legal Definition and Implications
The phrase statutory rape is a general term used to describe non-forcible sexual relations that take place when an individual (regardless of age or gender) has sexual relations with an individual not old enough to legally consent to the behavior. Although it usually refers to adults engaging in sex with minors under the age of consent, the age at which individuals are considered competent to give consent to sexual conduct, it is a generic term, and very few jurisdictions use the actual term “statutory rape” in the language of statutes.
Understanding the Variations in Statutory Rape Laws
Different jurisdictions use many different statutory terms and penal codes for the crime, such as “sexual assault,” “rape of a child,” “corruption of a minor,” “carnal knowledge of a minor,” or simply “carnal knowledge.” Statutory rape differs from forcible rape in that overt force or threat need not be present. The laws presume coercion, because a minor or mentally retarded adult is legally incapable of giving consent to the act.
The FBI's Definition of Statutory Rape
Statutory rape is illegal sexual activity between two people when it would otherwise be legal if not for their age: In accordance with the FBI definition, statutory rape is characterized as non-forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is younger than the statutory age of consent.
Statutory Rape vs. Child Molestation: Understanding the Distinction
The term statutory rape generally refers to sex between an adult and a sexually mature minor past the age of puberty. Sexual relations with a prepubescent child, generically called “child molestation,” are uniformly treated as a more serious crime.
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