Being accused of molestation can have a dreadful impact on your personal and professional life. The consequences for those convicted of molestation can be severe, and may include jail time or prison terms, fines, and compulsory lifelong registration as a sex offender. If you have been charged with molestation, you need a defense lawyer who has a thorough understanding of the laws pertaining to the alleged crime you are accused of. Okabe and Haushalter are among the best Pacific Palisades molestation defense attorneys in the greater Los Angeles area, and they can help you fight the charges against you in court.
Several different laws apply to what laypersons refer to as molestation under the California Penal Code. One such law is outlined in Section 288. This law states that any acts with a minor deemed lewd and lascivious are a criminal offense, and further, that any act of sex with a minor under the age of 10 years is a serious felony offense. Section 647 also describes a related crime—annoying or molesting a child. Under this law, anyone who is accused of molesting a minor under the age of 18 for the purposes of achieving sexual gratification can be charged with a criminal offense.
While some incidences of molestation are misdemeanor offenses, others may be considered felonies under the law. Someone convicted of misdemeanor molestation could face moderate fines and jail time not in excess of one year. However, felony molestation charges could involve sizeable fines and could result in life imprisonment in more extreme cases, as with those convicted of sex with a child under 10. All persons convicted of crimes under Sections 288 or 647 of the California Penal Code will have to register as sex offenders in the national database. Sex offender registry can have an impact on your life beyond the penal system, resulting in tarnishing your reputation and limiting your employment and housing options.
Although those accused of the crime of molestation may be met with bad reactions from family, friends, neighbors, and employers, they can count on a competent defense attorney standing by them in the courtroom. A good defense lawyer can help you push back against the charges that stand against you and can help you negotiate for a reduction in charges or sentencing. You have the right to retain legal counsel—exercise this right so you can move forward with your life.
Have you been charged with molestation? The Pacific Palisades molestation defense attorneys at Okabe and Haushalter can assist you with your legal case. Our team consists of criminal law experts who can stand up for you in the court of law. You have a right to defense in the courtroom, so don’t be afraid to use it. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us get you on track to fighting the criminal charges you face head-on.
