Lewd & Lascivious Acts with a Child
San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer
Few crimes are as intensely prosecuted as those involving criminal acts committed against children. For a defendant accused of lewd conduct with a child, the future is grim. In addition to the media attention a case may receive, allegations alone may impact one’s career and personal relationships. If the child involved is the defendant’s own, it may affect custody and visitation rights.
You can fight back against criminal charges involving lewd and lascivious conduct with a minor, but it takes a dedicated and experienced attorney to provide you with the greatest opportunity at a positive outcome.
At Premier Criminal Defense, we believe our clients deserve our full commitment and resolve as we defend them against criminal charges. Leading our team is Thomas Slattery, a San Diego criminal defense lawyer who has more than 17 years of experience in criminal law, including as a former prosecutor. His dual understanding of criminal proceedings and extensive experience enable him to lead effectively and efficiently. His passion for justice and creative thinking enable him to achieve the best possible result in every case our firm takes on.
Learn how we can help you by calling (619) 374-1268 for a no-cost case evaluation.
Penalties for Lewd Acts with a Child
The penalties for lewd acts with a minor will vary depending on the minor’s age and the age of the defendant. A minor is a person under the age of 18, who is considered by law as unable to give consent to sexual activity. Due to the severity of these charges and the fact that mandatory lifetime sex offender registration is required, it is important to involve a San Diego criminal attorney as soon as possible.
According to California Penal Code § 288, the following penalties may be imposed for lewd and lascivious acts with a minor:
- Up to 1 year in county jail if the minor was 16 or 17 years old (typically prosecuted as statutory rape or sexual battery).
- Up to 3 years in state prison if the minor was 14 or 15 years old and the defendant was at least 10 years older than the child.
- Up to 8 years in prison if the child was under 14 years old (up to 10 years in prison if force was used, and up to 16 years in prison if there is a pattern of 3 or more incidents over a time span of 3 months or more).
Contact Premier Criminal Defense today at (619) 374-1268 and fight back against charges involving lewd acts with a child.