Legal Tips & Guides

This article should provide the reader with the knowledge and understanding of the possible legal defenses as well as penalties in the State of California as defined in PC 243.4.

This article should provide the reader with the knowledge and understanding of the types of sexual assault in the State of California as defined in PC 243.4.

In the State of California, it is a crime to attempt or to engage in sexual acts with a minor. The accused can suffer a variety of punishments, including a lifetime sex offender registration mandate, severe fines, and punishments up to and including life in prison. The impact on a person’s life can be profound.These sex crime cases can be very difficult to defend. There is a very high tendency among judges, juries, and potential jurors, to believe the testimony of children and minors. Also, the testimony of these minors can often be easily manipulated by prosecutors, family members, and even other plaintiffs.

In 2016, the California Senate overrode California Penal Code 801.1 and passed SB 813. SB 813 was signed into law September 28, 2016, by California Governor Jerry Brown, to eliminate the statute of limitations on most sexual assault crimes.

Often people do not realize that consensual sex can be considered illegal. If sexual activity occurs between people and either one, or both are under the age of 18, even if it is consensual, could end up resulting in criminal prosecution.