Los Angeles Attorney
Rape Defense Attorney in Los Angeles
If you’re being accused of rape, your name is suddenly tied to one of the most serious criminal allegations under California law. In an instant, your career, your relationships, and your freedom are at stake. While the accusation alone can have life-changing consequences, it is important to remember that getting charged with this crime is not the same as a conviction.
If you are facing a rape charge in Los Angeles, you need more than just legal advice. You need immediate, strategic legal representation. At Esfandi Law Group, our experienced Los Angeles rape defense lawyers are here to protect your rights, defend your reputation, and help you reclaim your future.
Types of Rape Charges
California defines rape as non-consensual sexual intercourse achieved by:
- Force,
- Fear,
- Coercion, or
- When the victim is incapable of giving consent due to intoxication, unconsciousness, or mental disability.
The minimum prison sentence is three years, although it is often much longer. There are a variety of types of rape covered in the law.
Forcible Rape
This involves allegations of sexual intercourse through force, violence, or threats. The State often charges this crime as a felony. As such, a conviction can come with severe consequences, including years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.
Rape of an Intoxicated Person
If you are alleged to have engaged in sexual activity with someone who was too intoxicated to give legal consent at the time of the act—it can result in rape charges.
Rape of an Unconscious Person
Engaging in sexual activity with someone who is asleep, unconscious, or otherwise unaware of the act can lead to criminal charges, even if there was a prior sexual relationship.
Statutory Rape
Statutory rape occurs when one individual engages in sexual intercourse with a minor under 18, even if both parties consent. A Los Angeles statutory rape defense attorney can help challenge the allegations based on evidence, the age difference between the parties, or witness credibility.
What’s at Stake
Getting charged with rape can result in long-term consequences that go far beyond a courtroom sentence. A conviction may result in:
- Lengthy prison sentences. Depending on the charges, penalties may range from three years to life in prison. The sentence can fall on the heavier side if aggravating factors are present, such as the use of a weapon, multiple victims, or physical harm.
- Mandatory sex offender registration. Under California law, those convicted of rape must register as sex offenders. This registration is part of the public record and can severely limit housing opportunities, employment opportunities, and personal freedom.
- A permanent criminal record. Even a plea deal can lead to a felony record, which affects your ability to secure employment, professional licenses, or even custody rights.
- Social stigma and reputational harm. Allegations alone can damage your relationships, reputation, and mental well-being.
- Restraining orders and civil consequences. You may face additional restrictions beyond criminal penalties, such as court orders preventing contact with the alleged victim.
The stakes are incredibly high. Therefore, choosing the right lawyer for rape defense is one of the most important decisions you will ever make.
Legal Defenses in Rape Cases
At Esfandi Law Group, we build strong, individualized defenses. Every case is different, and so is every defense. We consider all available legal avenues to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Consent
Many rape cases hinge on the issue of consent. If there is evidence—such as text messages, eyewitness accounts, or prior history—showing that the act was consensual, the case may be significantly weakened or dismissed entirely.
Lack of Evidence
The prosecution has the burden of proving rape charges beyond a reasonable doubt. Rape cases often proceed without physical evidence. When possible, we challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s evidence by attacking unreliable testimony, improper procedures, or contradictory facts.
Mistaken Identity
In some cases, particularly where the alleged victim does not know you or was intoxicated, there may be an issue of mistaken identity. We use forensic evidence, digital records, and alibis to establish that the State has charged the wrong person.
Violation of Rights
If your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation or arrest—such as an unlawful search or a coerced confession—evidence obtained from such a violation may be excluded. This can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case or result in dismissal.
Esfandi Law Group’s Approach to Rape Defense
We do not take accusations at face value. We believe that everyone deserves a fair trial, a thorough defense, and a legal advocate who is willing to fight for the truth. At Esfandi Law Group, we take a meticulous, aggressive approach to defending those charged with rape in Los Angeles.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experience that matters. Our lead Los Angeles rape defense attorney is Seppi Esfandi. He has over 23 years of experience, during which he’s handled thousands of criminal cases, including many rape cases.
- Courtroom credibility. As a former Deputy Public Defender, Mr. Esfandi knows how prosecutors think and how judges respond. He has tried a wide range of sex crime cases, earning a reputation for effective advocacy.
- Resources and strategy. We collaborate with private investigators, medical experts, forensic analysts, and psychologists to dissect evidence, challenge assumptions, and expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s theory.
- Compassionate representation. We know this is not just a legal crisis, it’s a personal one. We are committed to guiding you with compassion and discretion, while protecting your dignity and future.
- Bilingual services. Our team proudly serves the Hispanic community by offering legal services in both English and Spanish, ensuring that all clients receive equal access to justice.
We do not believe that an accusation should define your future. We work relentlessly to make sure it does not.
What to Do If You Are Accused of Rape
If you are accused of rape, your first actions can shape the rest of your case. Take these steps immediately:
- Do not speak to law enforcement. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Even if you believe you are innocent and have nothing to hide, it is far better to remain silent and request a lawyer.
- Avoid contact with the accuser. Do not attempt to reach out to the alleged victim in any way. Such an act can lead to additional charges, such as witness intimidation or violation of a restraining order.
- Preserve evidence. Save any messages, photos, social media posts, or documents that may be relevant to the encounter. Your attorney will review and determine what they can use for your defense.
- Hire a Los Angeles rape defense attorney immediately. Time is critical. The sooner your attorney can begin investigating and preparing your defense, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
Many people think that since they’re innocent, the truth will reveal itself. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. You need to be proactive.
Why Early Legal Intervention Matters
The prosecution begins building its case the moment an allegation is made. If you wait to get legal help, you give them an advantage. By contacting our Los Angeles rape defense lawyers early in the process, we can:
- Speak on your behalf during investigations,
- Present evidence and arguments discouraging the prosecution from filing charges,
- Protect your interests during police interviews,
- Prevent misunderstandings from escalating, and
- Preserve favorable evidence and witnesses.
Early legal action is one of the most powerful tools in defending against a rape charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Penalties for Rape in California?
Penalties may include three to eight years in prison, sex offender registration, and a felony record. Certain factors, such as multiple victims or the use of force, can lead to harsher sentences.
Can a Statutory Rape Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes. A strong Los Angeles statutory rape defense attorney may be able to get your charges reduced based on age proximity, factual errors in the accusation, etc.
Should I Talk to the Police If I’m Innocent?
No. You should never speak to the police without an attorney present. Even truthful statements can be twisted and used against you in court.
What If I Already Spoke to the Police?
Contact a lawyer for rape defense immediately. It may still be possible to protect your rights and challenge any statements made.
How Soon Should I Hire a Lawyer After Being Accused?
Immediately. The sooner your attorney begins building your defense, the more control you have over the outcome of your case. Do not delay.
Speak with Los Angeles Rape Defense Lawyers
Being accused of rape can be one of the most devastating experiences of your life. But you do not have to face it alone. At Esfandi Law Group, we are here to protect your rights, your name, and your future.
Flexible Payment Options
We understand that facing a serious criminal charge is financially stressful. That’s why Esfandi Law Group offers flexible payment plans to ensure you get the legal support you need without delay. Protecting your rights should never be out of reach.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been charged with rape, statutory rape, or any related offense, contact us today for a confidential consultation. Our experienced lawyers for rape defense will listen to your story, explain your options, and help you build a powerful legal strategy.
The sooner you act, the better your chances of success. Call Esfandi Law Group and let us stand by your side and fight for your freedom. Your future is worth fighting for. Our bilingual team is standing by to help you in Spanish or English. Call us today.
