Westlake Village Abogado de Asalto Sexual

Westlake Village Sexual Assault Attorney

Facing sexual assault charges can be overwhelming, damaging, and quite painful to endure. Sometimes, the accusation can be enough to derail your life and permanently damage your reputation totally. Sexual assault is a crime you never want to be associated with. You don’t need to be convicted to suffer long-term consequences of sexual assault charges. You need a Westlake Village sexual assault lawyer who can help you mount a strong legal defense.

The legal team at the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein can provide you with the resources you’ll need to get ahead of a sexual assault charge and fight it. It’s important to understand just how the stakes may be for you in this case. Nothing short of your future may be on the line here. If convicted, you will likely serve prison time, and you will end up with a criminal record that will follow you for the rest of your life. An experienced Westlake Village abogado de defensa criminal puede ayudar.

Sexual Assault in California

Según Ley estatal de California, sexual assault, which is also known as sexual battery, is defined as the act of touching someone inappropriately in an intimate area without their consent and against their will. It is distinctly different from rape, which involves penetration of some kind. Sexual assault is sexual touching without penetration. Despite that distinction, sexual assault charges can still land you in significant legal trouble.

Sexual assault can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the situation and the details of your case. For sexual assault to be charged as a misdemeanor, the situation will usually involve touching someone’s intimate parts in a sexual way, but while the victim is wearing clothes and with no penetration. Felony sexual assault will involve sexual contact with the victim’s bare skin. If there was penetration, you may be looking at rape charges.

Sexual Assault Statistics

According to a survey from ValorUS, instances of sexual assault and sexual harassment in California have only increased since 2019. In fact, 88% of Californian women claim to have experienced sexual assault or sexual harassment in their lifetime. With numbers this high, it can be easy to see why so many alleged perpetrators are rarely given the benefit of the doubt.

Dealing with charges of sexual assault can be severely detrimental to your mental health. You may be struggling with the way you are now perceived by people who know you. You may want to consider contacting a local mental health support group such as The Oaks Psychological Group. Talking to someone about your situation may be greatly beneficial to you.

How to Deal With an Arrest

One of the most humiliating parts of facing sexual assault charges is getting arrested, especially if it happens to you in front of your friends, family, or coworkers. Getting arrested can feel like you’ve already lost, and there’s nothing you can do to fight back. That may not be the case. Never forget that you are always innocent until proven guilty, no matter what charges you may be facing. You are always afforded your derechos constitucionales, which cannot be infringed upon.

When you are arrested on sexual assault charges, you will want to exercise your right to legal counsel and your right to remain silent. The police may have less evidence against you than they’ve led you to believe, and they could be counting on a confession to clinch their case. You don’t have to say a word to the police if you don’t want to. Simply demand your violent crime lawyer in Westlake Village and wait for them to arrive. Once they do, let your lawyer do all the talking for you.

FAQs About Westlake Village Sexual Assault Law

Can Someone Take Legal Action Against You for Sexual Assault in California?

Yes, it is entirely possible for someone to take legal action against you in civil court for sexual assault in California. This is often in addition to criminal charges you may be facing. When facing a civil case for sexual assault, the alleged victim can claim damages not just against you but also against anyone even remotely connected to the situation who may have, in some way, facilitated it. You will want an experienced defense lawyer to help.

What Type of Lawyer Handles Sexual Assault Cases?

The type of lawyer who handles sexual assault cases is a criminal defense lawyer. That’s who you will want to reach out to when you are facing serious charges. The most important thing you will want in your case is a strong defense strategy. Without a defense strategy, it’s highly unlikely you will win your case. A defense lawyer preserves your rights, protects your interests, and helps you without judgment.

What Is the Law for Sexual Assault in California?

The law for sexual assault in California is primarily described in Penal Code 243.4. This chapter describes sexual assault, or sexual battery, as the touching of another person’s intimate areas without their consent. Consent is the most vital part of the case. If you can prove the touching was consensual, it may destroy the case against you. This chapter also explains the legal penalties and statute of limitations for civil claims.

How Do I Fight Sexual Assault Charges?

The most effective way to fight sexual assault charges is by hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer who focuses on sexual assault cases. They can help you put together a strong defense strategy that incorporates factual evidence, DNA evidence, and witness testimony, among other factors. Without a strong defense, there may be very little you can do to defend yourself.

Reach Out to a Sexual Assault Lawyer Today

Few incidents in your life can be as difficult or unpredictable as facing sexual assault charges. You may find yourself alone and without a support system, as people may start to view you solely as a predator. It may be up to you to defend yourself with the help of an experienced defense lawyer.

The legal team at the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein understands how complex and personal this situation can get for you. We are prepared to offer you quality legal assistance, as well as help with developing your case and assurance that you won’t be taken advantage of. Póngase en contacto con nosotros to speak with a valued team member about your case.