Statutes dealing with sexual relations with a child can be found in Penal Code Section 288, et. seq. They are commonly known as Lewd Act on Child, or simply as Child Molestation. The code goes into prohibiting acts done by a Caretaker or in Care Facilities, Lewd Act with a Child under 14, Distribution or Exhibition of Lewd Material to a Minor, Oral Copulation, Sexual Penetration by Foreign or Unknown Object [where a foreign object is any part of the body that is not a sexual organ], as well as other acts. Under the laws of the State of California, it is prohibited to have any sexual relations with a child if one is an adult. If one is convicted of such an act, one will be required to register as a sex offender under Penal Code Section 290. This statute requires a person subject to it, to register as a sex offender once a year with his or her police department. If this person moves, then he or she must immediately register with the local police department in the new area. Moreover, a person convicted under Penal Code 288 et. seq. will also be faced with having his or her face and personal information displayed on the Megan’s Law website.
There are many cases where the allegations made by the child are plain lies or are a misrepresentation of what really happened. Many, unfortunately, are true. Thus, having the right criminal lawyer in your corner is imperative in order to best represent your interests in Court. To say that allegations triggering these statutes are very serious is an understatement. If you are faced with an accusation such as these, you must seek the help of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. Without this assistance, a less experienced lawyer may make irreversible mistakes at the outset, jeopardizing your chances of prevailing or reducing the case. Please choose your advocate wisely.