The federal court system will step in to handle some sexual assault charges. Generally, the federal court handles charges that are especially severe. You can get additional information about the state and federal response to sex crimes with the Simmrin Law Group. Go over sex crime allegations by calling us at (310) 896-2723.
Sexual Assault Is Often a State Crime in California
Many sexual assault allegations are handled in the state court system in California. There are a large number of crimes considered sexual assault in our state. Examples of these charges include:
- Penal Code §243.4: Sexual Battery
- Penal Code §261: Rape
- Penal Code §272: Lewd and Lascivious Conduct
- Penal Code §286: Sodomy
- Penal Code §287: Oral Copulation by Force
- Penal Code §289: Sexual Penetration with an Object
Note that these are only examples of sexual assault charges in the state of California. This is not a comprehensive list of sex crimes prosecuted in our state. You can get more information about specific charges with a sex crimes lawyer in Los Angeles.
Federal Charges for Sexual Assault
As we mentioned, the federal court system sometimes steps in to handle sexual assault charges here in California. The federal court system only handles charges that violate federal laws.
For example, the federal court system will step in if a crime crosses state lines. This can easily occur in cases involving child pornography. People can send pornographic images of minors over the internet to many different states, leading to federal involvement.
A federal crimes lawyer in Los Angeles can help you understand these charges for sexual assault. You can reach out to the Simmrin Law Group to learn more. Call (310) 896-2723 and start getting answers to your legal questions.
Penalties for State and Federal Sexual Assault Charges
There are numerous penalties associated with sexual assault convictions here in California. The exact penalties vary based on the kind of charge a person faces. State convictions for sexual assault can result in:
- Fines and restitution payments to victims
- Jail or prison time
- A requirement to join California’s sex offender registry
Note all state charges lead to the same penalties here in California. Some individuals will face more severe penalties. Generally, harsher penalties are used if a sex crime involves a minor (or someone under the age of 18).
The federal court system uses harsher penalties to handle sexual assault convictions. Federal judges often hand down a longer prison sentence. Sexual assault in federal court can lead to up to 20 years of prison time.
Defenses for Sexual Assault Charges in State or Federal Court
A lawyer can build a defense for sexual assault charges in either the state or federal court system. Members of our team are familiar with the defenses that work to handle sex crime allegations. We deal with both state and federal charges.
Depending upon the facts of your case, our sexual assault lawyers in Los Angeles can work to show that:
- You had consent to engage in sexual activity with another person
- You were falsely accused of an act of sexual assault
- Your rights were violated during a sexual assault investigation
We provide personalized legal help for individuals in your situation. You can rely on us to help you during legal questioning by police officers and the prosecution. We will also take steps to get your charges reduced through a plea bargain.
Plea bargains allow you to reduce the penalties you’d face for a sexual assault conviction. However, you must plead guilty to a different criminal act if you take a plea bargain. We’ll review all offers made by the prosecution to see if they are fair to you.
Ask a Lawyer if Sexual Assault Is a State or Federal Crime
Sexual assault is a state crime in some situations. In other cases, the federal court system will step in to handle sexual assault charges. The Simmrin Law Group can help with both state and federal sexual assault allegations. Reach us for help by calling (310) 896-2723. You can also fill out our online contact form. Allow us to help you with a risk-free consultation.