The age of consent is the youngest age at which a person can formally agree to have a sexual encounter. In California, the age of consent is 18. This means that anyone over the age of 18 can legally agree to have sexual relations with anyone else, no matter what age they are. On the other hand, people younger than 18 cannot formally agree to sexual activity with someone older than 18, even if they want to. This is considered statutory rape, which is a very serious crime with harsh punishments.
California Has Laws That Make Rape Illegal
Sexual contact with a child who is not the perpetrator’s spouse is what is meant by “statutory rape.” The phrase “sexual intercourse” refers to any entry, no matter how small, of the vagina or anus by any body part or object, as well as oral copulation, which involves touching the genitalia with the mouth. In California, statutory rape is a “wobbler” crime, which means it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, based on the age difference between the two people and the details of the case.
In California, the punishment for statutory rape depends on whether it is a misdemeanor or a crime. If you are found guilty of a crime, you could spend up to a year in county jail, pay a $1,000 fine, or go on probation. If you are found guilty of a felony, you could spend 16 months to three years in state jail, pay a fine of up to $10,000, or go on probation. A statutory rape sentence can have long-lasting effects on the offender’s life, including a criminal record, losing the right to vote and own a gun, problems with immigration, and having to register as a sex offender.
California has a law called Romeo and Juliet
Unlike some states that have a “Romeo and Juliet” rule that lets close-in-age couples have consensual sex without getting in trouble, California does not have one. The age of consent is the same for everyone, no matter what the relationship is or what kind of sexual activity is going on. This is because there is no Romeo and Juliet rule.
California Lawyers Who Handle Sex Crimes
If you or someone you know is being accused of juvenile rape or any other sex crime in California, you need to talk to an experienced sex crimes lawyer right away. This kind of lawyer can help you understand the charges, protect your rights, and fight for the best result possible. They can also help lessen the bad effects of a sex crime sentence, like jail time, fines, probation, and being registered as a sex offender.
The lawyers at Newman & Allen, LLP have been representing people accused of sex crimes in California for more than 25 years. We work hard to look into cases, question evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for our clients in court because we are dedicated to giving aggressive, caring, and personalized legal counsel. There are both minor and felony charges against our clients. Our goal is to help them get the best outcome possible. Get in touch with us at [Newman & Allen, LLP] right away for a free appointment.
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In Summary
In California, the age of consent is 18. This means that any sexual behavior with a person younger than 18 is illegal and considered rape. “Wobbler” crimes are crimes that can go from being a misdemeanor to a felony depending on things like age differences. California doesn’t have a “Romeo and Juliet” rule like some other states do, so everyone is treated the same. Different punishments are possible, such as jail time, fines, probation, and being listed as a sex offender. With more than 25 years of experience, Newman & Allen, LLP helps people who are being charged with a sex crime get the best possible result. If you are charged, you need to get a lawyer right away. For a free chat, call [Newman & Allen, LLP].