Sex Crimes
Los Angeles Sex Crime Attorney - Seppi Esfandi
Imagine a one-night stand, display of affection, or simple misunderstanding turning into an accusation that instantly upends your life. Suddenly, you’re facing a serious charge with your reputation at risk and your future uncertain.
While an accusation can lead to swift judgment from law enforcement, prosecutors, and the public, it does not necessarily mean a conviction. With the right support and a solid plan, you can tackle this challenge head-on.
At Esfandi Law Group, we believe in your innocence and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights, reputation, and freedom.
- Lewd Act with a Minor Under Age 14 (PC 288)
- Oral Copulation (PC 288a)
- Arranging a Meeting with a Minor to Commit a Lewd Act (PC 288.4)
- Possession of Child Pornography (PC 311.1)
- Child Annoyance (PC 647(a))
- Unlawful Intercourse with a Minor or “Statutory Rape” (PC 261.5)
- Lewd Act with a Minor Under Age 14 (PC 288)
- Oral Copulation (PC 288a)
- Arranging a Meeting with a Minor to Commit a Lewd Act (PC 288.4)
- Possession of Child Pornography (PC 311.1)
- Child Annoyance (PC 647(a))
- Unlawful Intercourse with a Minor or “Statutory Rape” (PC 261.5)
- Rape (PC 261)
- Sexual Battery (PC 243.4)
- Indecent Exposure (PC 314)
- Lewd Act in Public (PC 647(a))
- Failure to Register as a Sex Offender (PC 290)
- Rape (PC 261)
- Sexual Battery (PC 243.4)
- Indecent Exposure (PC 314)
- Lewd Act in Public (PC 647(a))
- Failure to Register as a Sex Offender (PC 290)
Understanding Sex Crime Charges in California
Sex crime charges in California typically carry severe penalties, lifelong consequences, and mandatory sex offender registration if convicted. Prosecutors vigorously pursue sex crime accusations and may base their case on a combination of forensic reports or DNA analysis, witness accounts, and circumstantial evidence. The difference between a conviction and an acquittal can come down to the strength of your defense.
Common Sex Crimes in Los Angeles
California law categorizes sex offenses under various statutes, each with different legal elements and penalties.
Sexual Assault & Battery
Sexual assault involves non-consensual sexual contact, while sexual battery refers to unwanted touching of an intimate part of another person. Convictions can lead to years in prison, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Rape
Rape involves non-consensual sexual intercourse using force, violence, or threats. California law also considers lack of consent due to intoxication, mental incapacity, or coercion as rape. Even accusations with minimal physical evidence can lead to serious felony charges, prison time, and mandatory sex offender registration.
Statutory Rape
Engaging in sexual activity with a minor under 18 is illegal, even if both parties consent. The severity of the penalties depends on the age difference between the individuals involved. A conviction can lead to felony charges, years in prison, and inclusion on the sex offender registry.
Child Molestation
Any sexual act considered lewd or lascivious performed with a child under the age of 14 is a felony. A conviction results in substantial prison time, heavy fines, and mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender.
Possession of Child Pornography
Possessing, distributing, or producing child pornography is a felony offense in California. The penalties can include significant prison time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
Failing to register as a sex offender when you are required to do so can result in felony charges and extended prison sentences. Individuals convicted of a qualifying sex crime may be required to register as a sex offender for life or a designated period.
Penalties for Sex Crimes in California
The repercussions of a sex crime conviction can last your lifetime. Potential penalties include the following.
Lengthy Prison Sentences
Depending on the charge, sentences range from several years to life in prison. Some offenses, such as aggravated sexual assault or child molestation, carry enhanced penalties that could result in decades behind bars.
Sex Offender Registration
Most convicted individuals must register as sex offenders, affecting employment, residency, and social relationships. Certain offenses require lifetime registration, while others may allow you to petition to be removed under specific conditions.
Heavy Fines and Restitution
Convictions often result in thousands of dollars in fines and mandatory payments to victims. Courts may also impose civil penalties, increasing financial burdens beyond criminal sentencing.
Lifetime Restrictions
Certain offenses limit where you can live, work, or travel, significantly altering your daily life. Registered offenders may be restricted from living near:
- Schools,
- Parks, or
- Other designated areas.
They could face employment bans in certain industries.
Social and Professional Stigma
A sex crime conviction follows you for life, negatively impacting your reputation, career, and relationships long after your sentence is served. Many individuals struggle to secure housing, employment, or professional licenses due to the enduring stigma associated with these offenses.
Given these severe penalties, securing an experienced Los Angeles sexual assault defense attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and building the strongest defense possible.
Legal Defenses to Sex Crime Allegations
Sex crime allegations are serious, but they are not unbeatable. Every case is unique, and the right defense strategy can make a significant difference.
False Accusations
Sex crimes often lack physical evidence, making them susceptible to false claims driven by personal disputes, revenge, or misunderstandings. An experienced attorney will investigate inconsistencies in the accuser’s story and seek to expose credibility issues.
Consent
Many sex crime cases hinge on whether the alleged victim consented. If evidence suggests that both parties agreed to the act, this alone can dismantle the prosecution’s case.
Mistaken Identity
In many instances, eyewitness testimony can be unreliable and result in the misidentification of the accused. To counter this, your attorney can present evidence such as an alibi, surveillance footage, or forensic proof.
Lack of Evidence
While the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, compelling witness testimony may be sufficient to secure a conviction even without physical evidence. A strong defense will effectively challenge the credibility of witness testimony. When successful, this can lead to a case dismissal or acquittal, particularly in cases where physical evidence, DNA, or other corroborating evidence is absent.
Police Misconduct or Violations of Rights
Unlawful searches, coerced confessions, or violations of Miranda rights can lead to evidence suppression and case dismissal. A skilled Los Angeles sex crimes attorney will be able to challenge any procedural errors.
Why Choose Esfandi Law Group?
Successfully defending against sex crime allegations requires a strategic, aggressive, and thorough approach. At our Los Angeles criminal defense firm, we:
- Have decades of experience successfully defending sex crime cases, including high-stakes felony charges that require meticulous legal strategies;
- Are adept at challenging weak evidence and false accusations to protect our clients, working to ensure unverified claims do not ruin their lives;
- Collaborate with psychologists, private investigators, and forensic specialists to unearth the truth, using expert and scientific analysis to undermine the prosecution’s case;
- Use pre-trial motions, courtroom advocacy, and negotiation strategies to fight for reduced or dismissed charges and help safeguard your future; and
- Offer discreet and aggressive representation to minimize public exposure and reputational harm while building a powerful defense strategy.
Your reputation, freedom, and future are too valuable to risk. We’re here to fight for them. Let our Los Angeles attorney for sex offenders stand by your side and fight for justice.
Level the Playing Field with Our Los Angeles Sex Crime Attorneys
If you’ve been charged with a sex crime charge in Los Angeles, you don’t have to face it alone. Our dedicated sex crimes attorneys can help you build your defense while the prosecutors build their case.
The Esfandi Law Group offers compassionate and competent legal representation, helping our clients achieve the best possible outcomes. We have a proven track record defending clients charged with serious crimes, and we want to help you too. Contact us now for a confidential consultation, and start your defense today. We are proud to provide bilingual support for Spanish-speaking clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If I Am Falsely Accused of a Sex Crime?
Remain silent and do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a Los Angeles sex crimes attorney immediately to protect your rights.
Can a Sex Crime Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes. If evidence is weak, your rights were violated, or a strong defense is presented, charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Can I Be Arrested for a Sex Crime Without Physical Evidence?
Yes. In many cases, sex crime charges are based only on the accuser’s statement. This is why having a strong defense attorney is crucial to challenge credibility and lack of evidence.
How Soon Should I Hire a Lawyer After Being Accused?
Immediately. The earlier you hire an attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights and building a strong defense.
Resources
Seppi Esfandi Can Help
Sex crimes are serious charges. If you’ve been accused, investigated, charged, or convicted of a sex crime, you need a serious Los Angeles sex crime attorney. Seppi Esfandi and his team are well-respected and distinguished criminal defense attorneys in LA with an unparalleled track record of success and experience defending sex crimes. Esfandi has more than 20 years of experience defending sex crime charges in Los Angeles.
Quick Questions About Sex Crimes Defense in Los Angeles
Do I need a sex crimes attorney if I was arrested in Los Angeles?
Yes. Sex crimes carry serious penalties including long jail terms, sex offender registration, and lifetime consequences. A Los Angeles sex crimes attorney can protect your rights, scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, challenge constitutional issues, and develop aggressive defense strategies from the outset. Early legal representation greatly increases the likelihood of reduced charges or favorable outcomes.
What should I do immediately after a sex crime arrest?
After an arrest, you should remain silent and contact a Los Angeles sex crimes attorney immediately. Anything you say to police can be used against you. A lawyer can request evidence, preserve your rights, and determine whether law enforcement followed proper procedures. Early action helps build your defense and prevents future legal missteps.
Can sex crime charges be reduced or dismissed in California?
Yes, depending on the circumstances. Charges can be dismissed if evidence was obtained unlawfully or if there are weaknesses in the case. In some situations, prosecutors agree to reduced charges that carry less severe penalties. A skilled defense attorney negotiates with the DA, identifies weaknesses, and works toward the best possible resolution.
How long does a sex crime stay on my record in California?
A conviction for many sex offenses can remain on your criminal record permanently and may require sex offender registration. However, some charges may be eligible for expungement or treatment alternatives, depending on the facts and statutory eligibility. A sex crimes lawyer can evaluate whether post-conviction relief is available in your case.
Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
Certain sex crime convictions require mandatory registration under California law, which can affect employment, housing, travel, and reputation. The registration requirement varies by offense. A lawyer experienced in sex crimes can help you understand whether registration will apply and pursue strategies to avoid it when possible.
How much does a Los Angeles sex crimes attorney cost?
Fees vary with case complexity, charges, evidence review, investigation needs, and whether the case goes to trial. Most attorneys offer an initial consultation to evaluate your case, discuss potential strategies, and provide fee estimates. Cost should not deter you from seeking experienced legal defense given the stakes involved.
Can I fight a sex crime charge if I didn’t commit the act?
Yes. Innocent people are charged every day. A defense attorney reviews witness statements, forensic evidence, digital evidence, and police procedure to find inconsistencies, lack of proof, or constitutional violations. Challenging the prosecution’s case can lead to acquittal, dismissal, or reduction.
What defenses are available for sex crime cases?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent, unlawful search and seizure, consent disputes, unreliable testimony, and credibility challenges. Every case is unique, and an experienced sex crimes attorney develops a strategy that fits your facts and statutory defenses to achieve the best possible outcome.
Should I talk to the prosecutor before hiring an attorney?
No. You should not speak to the prosecutor, investigators, or law enforcement without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you. A sex crimes lawyer will handle all communications and negotiations with the District Attorney’s office on your behalf.
How quickly should I contact a sex crimes lawyer after an arrest or investigation?
Immediately. Sex crime investigations are complex, and early involvement allows your attorney to secure evidence, interview witnesses, investigate forensic testing, and file critical motions (e.g., suppression motions) if necessary. Waiting can limit defense options and put your case at a disadvantage.
