Individuals can face charges under California Penal Code Section 647.6: Annoying or Molesting a Child if the police accuse them of bothering someone under the age of 18 due to sexual interest in children or that child specifically.
California can prosecute PC 647.6 as either a misdemeanor or felony offense. A conviction can result in jail time and other penalties. You can learn more about this charge and get help understanding California’s penal code from a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer at Simmrin Law Group.
We have decades of experience in criminal defense that we can draw on to give you more information about this sex crime charge. We’ll help you understand California’s penal code and work hard to combat the charges you’re facing.
Basic Information About PC 647.6
The legal system can charge individuals under California Penal Code Section 647.6: Annoying or Molesting a Child if the police accuse them of engaging in conduct that could irritate or disturb a child. A sexual desire focused on the child or children must drive this behavior.
Annoying or molesting a child does not involve physical contact with a child. Individuals can be convicted simply for making sexual comments.
According to the legal codes in California, individuals may be convicted under PC 647.6 if they engage in sexual conduct with someone who is, or who they believe is, under 18 years of age. This charge can connect to several other criminal acts in Los Angeles, including:
- California Penal Code Section 647(a): Lewd Conduct
- California Penal Code Section 273(g): Lewdness or Drunkenness in the Presence of a Child
- California Penal Code Section 273(a) PC: Child Endangerment
A Los Angeles sex crimes lawyer can provide more information about these charges and other allegations.
For a free legal consultation with an annoying or molesting a child lawyer serving California, call (310) 896-2723
Defenses of PC 647.6 Allegations
A strong defense is essential when dealing with possible sex crimes, including PC 647.6. A criminal defense lawyer may be able to build a defense to argue:
You Were Falsely Accused
Sometimes these allegations are an honest mistake by someone worried about the welfare of a child. At other times, people intentionally make false allegations. In either case, a lawyer may build a legal defense against false accusations.
You Thought You Were Talking to an Adult
Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if someone is over 18 or not. Individuals who believe they speak with someone over 18 should not face charges for annoying or molesting a minor child.
You Experienced No Sexual Interest
Annoying or molesting a child requires individuals to act out of a sexual desire for a child or children. A lawyer may be able to argue that you did not experience this desire, which could help with these criminal charges.
Normal People Would Not Be Bothered by Your Actions
Generally, the state of California holds that an individual may be molesting or annoying a child if they behave in a way that a reasonable person would find offensive, irritating, or disturbing.
A professional sex crimes lawyer may be able to argue that your actions do not meet this standard. For this reason alone, you must speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after being charged with molesting a child.
An attorney can provide more information about common defenses to these allegations.
California Annoying or Molesting a Child Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
How Lawyers Handle California Penal Code Section 647.6 Allegations
Attorneys assist clients with any legal challenges they face after a California Penal Code Section 647.6: Annoying or Molesting a Child accusation. A lawyer can:
- Assist during legal questioning
- Protect a client’s rights
- Provide support at the arraignment hearing and bail hearing
- Build a solid defense
A lawyer may focus on:
Getting PC 647.6 Charges Dismissed
The court may dismiss PC 647.6 charges if a lawyer can show that the prosecution has insufficient evidence or if the police violated an individual’s rights before, during, or after an arrest.
Getting the Charges Reduced
In some cases, the prosecution may offer a plea deal, especially for a first-time PC 647.6 accusation. Taking a plea bargain can allow an individual to reduce the penalties they face.
Fighting for a Client in Court
Attorneys must establish reasonable doubt to help a client if PC 647.6 charges go to court. An attorney can work aggressively to assist in this situation and build a valid defense.
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Penalties for Annoying or Molesting a Child
A conviction for California Penal Code Section 647.6: Annoying or Molesting a Child can have severe repercussions. Generally, the court system treats a first-time charge of annoying or molesting a child as a misdemeanor. Individuals who are convicted could face:
- Fines: Up to $5,000
- Jail Time: Up to one year
Note that factors could allow the court to charge annoying or molesting a child as a felony. Individuals could face felony charges if they enter an inhabited structure without permission to commit a crime.
Individuals can also face felony charges if they have a previous felony conviction or they were previously convicted on a similar charge or other sex offenses, like child pornography or sexual abuse of a minor.
Depending on the exact circumstances surrounding a charge under PC 647.6, an individual could face up to six years of prison time, instead of time in county jail. Fortunately, a sex crime attorney can help with these allegations.
Probation for PC 647.6 Convictions
Individuals may have to spend time on summary or formal probation after a conviction. Individuals have to adhere to all conditions of probation during this period. Failure to follow rules set down by the court can result in a probation violation and additional penalties.
Sex Offender Registry
Individuals convicted of a charge under PC 647.6 must join California’s sex offender registry. A criminal defense lawyer from Simmrin Law Group will be able to guide you through the sex offender registration process and ensure that you are following all of the required steps if convicted, so you do not face additional charges.
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Learn More About PC 647.6 Allegations
You do not have to handle charges tied to California Penal Code Section 647.6: Annoying or Molesting a Child on your own. Simmrin Law Group’s professional criminal defense lawyers can walk you through your options today with a free initial case evaluation.
You will have stronger odds of successfully defending yourself if you get immediate legal representation after police officers accuse you of annoying or molesting a child. Make sure you’re ready for your day in court by filling out our online contact form or calling our office.
Do not delay in speaking to our experienced team. Our defense team can review the child molestation charges against you and build a strong defense on your behalf. We understand the legal process, and we want to help.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
