Fresno Criminal Lawyer Discusses Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction

In November 2014, the San Francisco Federal Appeals Court blocked the enforcement of a recent state law that would require certain convicted sex offenders in California to provide police with information about new online names or service providers they use within 24 hours. In blocking the state legislation, the court argued that it violated the free speech laws of people who had already served their time in prison.

Despite this victory, people who have been convicted of an online or offline sex crime still face many long-term consequences. It is crucial to contact a criminal lawyer when charged with any type of sexual crime.

Consequences of a Felony Sex Crime Conviction in California

The following sexual crimes are felonies under California law:

• Child Pornography
• Lewd and Lascivious Acts
• Rape
• Sexual Battery
• Spousal Rape
• Statutory Rape

The penalties for these crimes are severe. Rape, for example, carries a possible prison sentence of up to eight years. The potential length of the sentence increases to up to 11 years when the victim is 14 to 17 years old. When the victim is age 13 or younger, the potential prison term is up to 13 years. In addition to jail time, a person convicted of rape is subject to a fine between $2,000 and $20,000.

Sex Offender Registration

State law requires people convicted of specific sex crimes to register as a sex offender with their local law enforcement agency. The sex registry, also known as Megan's Law, is intended to warn neighborhoods when a convicted offender moves in. Sex offenders on the list must update their information annually or whenever they move.

There's Too Much at Stake

The long-term ramifications of a sex crime conviction are too serious to leave your fate to chance. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney like Michael E. Mitchell to explore every possible defense on your behalf. Please contact us at Mitchell Law Group to learn more.