Los Angeles Sex Crimes Attorney

At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., we understand the immense stress and stigma that comes with being accused of a sex crime in Los Angeles. Attorney Michael Kraut, a former Deputy District Attorney with extensive experience in high-profile prosecutions, brings a unique advantage to your defense. Suppose you are under investigation or have been charged with a sex offense. In that case, you need a skilled and dedicated Los Angeles criminal defense attorney who can aggressively fight to protect your rights, freedom, and future.

Sex crimes in California encompass a broad spectrum of offenses that involve illegal or coerced sexual conduct. Law enforcement, prosecutors, and the courts treat these crimes with utmost seriousness. The consequences of a conviction can be devastating, including incarceration, mandatory sex offender registration, and long-lasting damage to your personal and professional reputation.

Common Types of Sex Crimes in Los Angeles

Sex crime allegations can stem from a variety of situations, ranging from misunderstandings and false accusations to encounters involving complex consent issues. Some of the most commonly charged sex crimes in Los Angeles include:

• Rape (Penal Code §261 PC) Rape involves non-consensual sexual intercourse accomplished through force, fear, threats, or when the victim is incapable of giving legal consent. Rape charges can also include instances where the victim is intoxicated, unconscious, mentally disabled, or under the influence of drugs.
• Statutory Rape (Penal Code §261.5 PC) Statutory rape refers to consensual sexual intercourse between an adult and a minor under the age of 18. Even if the minor willingly engages in the act, the law considers the minor legally incapable of consenting. The severity of the charge depends on the age difference between the involved parties.
• Sexual Battery (Penal Code §243.4 PC) This offense involves touching the intimate part of another person against their will for sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse. Sexual battery can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances, such as whether force or restraint was used.
• Lewd or Lascivious Acts with a Minor (Penal Code §288 PC) This law criminalizes any lewd or sexual acts performed on a child under the age of 14. These are considered extremely serious felonies and carry lengthy prison sentences and lifetime sex offender registration.
• Indecent Exposure (Penal Code §314 PC) This charge applies when someone willfully exposes their genitals in a public place or in view of others who may be offended or annoyed. A conviction can lead to jail time and mandatory sex offender registration.
• Prostitution and Solicitation (Penal Code §647(b) PC) Engaging in, agreeing to engage in, or soliciting an act of prostitution is a misdemeanor offense. Law enforcement often conducts sting operations, and these charges can ensnare individuals who were entrapped or misunderstood the nature of the interaction.
• Pimping and Pandering (Penal Codes §266h & §266i PC) Pimping involves receiving financial support from the earnings of a prostitute, while pandering consists in persuading someone to engage in prostitution. These are serious felonies with substantial prison sentences.
• Internet Sex Crimes With the rise of digital communication, law enforcement has increased efforts to target sex crimes involving the internet. Standard charges include possession or distribution of child pornography, online solicitation of minors, and arranging to meet a minor for sex. These crimes often involve complex forensic evidence and require a highly technical legal defense.

The Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction

Convictions for sex crimes can result in severe legal penalties, including:

• Incarceration in a county jail or a state prison
• Formal or informal probation
• Lifetime registration as a sex offender under California Penal Code §290 PC
• Mandatory counseling or therapy
• Large fines and restitution to victims
• Loss of employment and damage to reputation

Sex Offender Registration and Megan's Law

Under Megan's Law, individuals convicted of sex crimes must register as sex offenders. This registry is publicly accessible and includes the registrant's name, address, photo, and offense details. Lifetime registration is mandatory for many offenses and can severely limit a person's ability to find housing, employment, or reintegrate into society.

In 2021, California implemented a three-tiered system for sex offender registration:

• Tier 1: Minimum 10 years of registration for misdemeanors and less severe felonies
• Tier 2: Minimum 20 years of registration for mid-level offenses
• Tier 3: Lifetime registration for the most serious offenses

Your attorney can petition the court to remove you from the registry once the minimum term has been completed, but removal is not automatic and must be aggressively pursued.

Defending Against Sex Crime Charges

Sex crime allegations are often based on one person's word against another's. A strong defense requires a detailed investigation and a deep understanding of California law. Possible defenses include:

• False accusations or mistaken identity
• Consent
• Lack of intent to commit a sexual act
• Entrapment in sting operations
• Insufficient evidence or improper police procedures

Attorney Michael Kraut uses his experience as a former prosecutor to anticipate the strategies of the District Attorney’s Office and build robust defenses for his clients. He works with expert witnesses, private investigators, forensic specialists, and other professionals to challenge the prosecution's case at every stage.

Handling Charges Discreetly and Effectively

At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., we understand the sensitive nature of sex crime allegations. We take a proactive, confidential approach to defending our clients and preventing public exposure whenever possible. Early intervention is critical; in many cases, we can resolve matters before formal charges are filed.

What to Do if You Are Accused

If you are being investigated or have been arrested for a sex crime in Los Angeles or anywhere in Southern California, take the following steps immediately:

• Do not talk to the police without an attorney present
• Do not contact the alleged victim
• Avoid posting anything on social media
• Contact Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. for a confidential consultation

Your future is at stake. A sex crime conviction can follow you for life. Don't take chances with inexperienced counsel. Put your trust in a defense team that understands both sides of the courtroom and knows how to fight for your freedom.

Contact a Los Angeles Sex Crimes Lawyer Today

Attorney Michael Kraut has a proven track record of success in defending clients charged with sex crimes in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange Counties. With decades of legal experience and a reputation for integrity and tenacity, he is the attorney you want in your corner.

Contact Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. 24/7 at 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453 for a free, confidential consultation.

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