Trial Lawyers Relentlessly Pursuing Justice
Ventura Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys
If you have been accused of sexual assault, the legal consequences could put your future at risk. The criminal justice system in the state of California imposes heavy penalties on those who are convicted of rape or any other type of sexual assault.
At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, our team will take immediate action for your defense when we take on your case. We have achieved many victories in court and hundreds of case dismissals.
Facing sexual assault charges? Contact our Ventura defense attorneys right away at (805) 819-7143.
What is Sexual Assault?
According to California Penal Code Section 240-248, an assault is defined as “an unlawful attempt, coupled with a present ability, to commit a violent injury on the person of another.” Although the exact definition of sexual assault varies from state to state, it typically refers to any attack on a person involving the touching of intimate parts for the purposes of sexual gratification, arousal, or abuse.
A critical component in sex crimes is consent – without it, you can be criminally charged and face harsh penalties.
Examples of Sex Crimes That May Include Sexual Assault
Sexual assault crimes can include:
- Prostitution
- Rape
- Statutory Rape
- Indecent Exposure
- Sexual Assault
- Sexual Solicitation
What Are the Penalties if Convicted of a Sexual Assault in California?
If convicted, you could face up to six months in jail and a fine of $2,000-$3,000 for a misdemeanor offense. Felony offenses carry even larger punishments, including imprisonment for one to four years and fines of up to $10,000.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may face enhanced penalties under certain circumstances. If, for example, your charge includes minor, mentally disabled, or elderly victims, your punishments will be much greater. Further difficulties can also arise if you have prior criminal convictions or if your offense included weapons.
You stand the best chance of fighting these charges only when you contact a qualified sexual assault defense lawyer who is experienced in this area of the law and is familiar with similar cases.
What Are Some Common Defense Strategies in Sexual Assault Cases?
There are cases in which accusations of sexual assault are completely false. For example, if an individual making the allegations has a motive, or is suffering from remorse after a consensual sexual encounter, they may be trying to gain some advantage or protect themselves by blaming you for a crime. In some cases, there could also be mental issues that lead to accusations that do not reflect the actual circumstances.
Possible legal defenses in these situations may also include:
- Being able to prove consent;
- Showing that there is insufficient evidence in your case;
- Proving that you are innocent and under false allegations.
No matter what your situation, you can have confidence that our sexual assault defense attorneys will move forward to pursue any possible advantage, including a dismissed charge, reduced charge, or an acquittal at trial. If it serves your interests, we can engage in negotiations with the prosecutor to reduce the sentence or seek alternatives to jail or prison time.
If you’ve been accused of sexual assault in Ventura County, contact Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP today to start building your defense.
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Navigating the legal system can be complicated. To maximize your chance of securing the best outcome possible, it is essential that you reach out to us without delay. When you hire our firm, we will work quickly to gather every detail, examine every piece of evidence, and build a strong case.
We will not hesitate to go toe-to-toe in trial with an insurance company, corporation, prosecutor, or law enforcement officer. Regardless of the type of situation you are involved in, rest assured that we will do everything we can to protect your rights and help you secure the most favorable result possible.
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For this reason, we are available to assist our clients 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to ensure any questions or concerns you may have will be addressed immediately. With around the clock service and multiple office locations, clients throughout Southern California can be confident knowing our counsel is available to them whenever and wherever they need it.
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