If you’re being investigated for a sex crime or you’ve already been charged, you’re probably unsure of what comes next. These cases carry serious consequences, and how they’re handled can shape the rest of your life. Hiring our firm to lead your case can help you protect your future.
At Silver Law Firm, we will listen as you share your story so that we can understand what happened and determine how to help you. Our Berkeley sex crime lawyer will explain your legal options clearly and how the state’s complex sex crime laws could affect your case.
We have helped more than 10,000 clients across California. Our firm is built on smart defense, careful preparation, and over 30 years of experience. When you work with our Berkeley criminal defense lawyer, you get a whole team behind you.
Call us today for a free consultation.
What Are Sex Crimes Under California Law?
Sex crimes in California include a wide range of offenses. They are often charged under state penal code sections and can include either felony or misdemeanor penalties, depending on the circumstances.
Sex crimes include:
- Sexual battery
- Rape
- Statutory rape
- Possession or distribution of child pornography
- Indecent exposure
- Lewd acts with a minor
- Internet luring or solicitation
You do not have to be convicted to feel the effects of a sex crime case. Allegations alone can hurt your job, reputation, and personal relationships. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights and prepare a defense early on.
For a free legal consultation with a sex crime lawyer serving Berkeley, call (510) 995-0000
Various Penalties Can Apply in Sex Crimes Cases
Penalties vary widely depending on the charge, but they can include the following:
- Jail or prison time: Some sex crimes carry years—or even life—in prison.
- Probation: You may be supervised for years and must follow strict rules.
- Mandatory sex offender registration: Being listed in the California Sex Offender Registry can affect where you live, work, and travel.
- Fines: You could be ordered to pay thousands of dollars.
- Restraining orders or limits on child custody: A conviction could affect your rights regarding your family.
These consequences are life-changing, and in some cases, they last long after the sentence ends. You deserve to fight for your future. Talking with our attorney about your legal options could help you protect that future.
Berkeley Sex Crime Lawyer Near Me (510) 995-0000
Our Berkeley Sex Crime Defense Lawyers Will Fight for You
We don’t just appear in court and hope for the best. At Silver Law Firm, we build your defense from the ground up. Our attorneys also don’t rush to plea deals in our clients’ cases, and we dig until we uncover every fact.
We also lead your case by:
- Reviewing all the evidence: Police reports, videos, phone records, digital files, and more can establish what happened in your case.
- Talking to witnesses: We follow up with everyone who might help your case.
- Looking for legal issues: Were your rights violated? Was evidence obtained illegally? We’ll leave no stone unturned when investigating your case.
- Crafting your defense: We explain your options and develop a strategy tailored to your case.
- Keeping you informed about your case: We talk to you regularly and explain things clearly.
- Negotiating or going to trial: We don’t rush decisions; we do what’s best for your situation.
- Handling appeals: If you’ve been convicted, we can review and challenge your verdict.
We never treat these cases as routine. Every case is different, and we handle each one with the care and seriousness it deserves.
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When Should You Hire a Defense Lawyer for a Sex Offense Case?
You don’t have to wait until you’re charged to seek help. You can—and should—speak with an attorney as soon as:
- Law enforcement contacts you about a sex crime.
- You realize you are under investigation.
- Authorities arrest you in connection with a sex offense.
- You receive a subpoena or search warrant related to a criminal charge.
Hiring a sex crime lawyer early on can protect your rights and help avoid missteps. If you’re being questioned in connection with a sex crime, securing legal representation before talking to the police is a smart move.
Silver Law Firm is ready to help. Call us today for a free consultation.
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Why Cases Involving Sexual Offenses Are Challenging
Sex crime cases are some of the most difficult criminal charges to defend. They often involve emotional accusations, limited physical evidence, and complex legal rules.
Unlike other charges, these cases can rely heavily on one person’s word against another’s. That alone makes them hard to manage. Evidence in sex crime cases is also handled differently.
There are strict rules about what can be introduced in court, especially when it comes to a person’s sexual history or character. Understanding what evidence is allowed—and how to challenge it—takes deep knowledge of California case law.
Below are a few reasons these cases can be challenging to navigate:
- High stakes: The penalties are severe, and even being accused can damage your life.
- Public perception: Jurors may come in with strong opinions about these charges.
- Complex laws: California has specific laws about consent, age, and relationships that can be misunderstood.
- Digital evidence: Texts, emails, or online chats are often involved and must be carefully looked over.
- False accusations: These do happen and must be taken seriously, but they require detailed investigation to prove.
You should have a lawyer on your side who understands how to handle these challenges. At Silver Law Firm, we don’t just know the law—we’re able to apply it in the toughest situations.
What to Expect After an Arrest or Charge in a Criminal Case
Being arrested or charged with a sex crime can be overwhelming. Most people don’t know what happens next, and that can make the situation even more stressful. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect in California:
- Booking: After an arrest, you’ll be taken to the police station. Your photo and fingerprints will be taken, and you may be held in jail.
- Arraignment: This is your first court appearance. You’ll hear the charges against you and enter a plea—usually “not guilty” at this stage.
- Bail: The judge may set bail, which is the amount of money required to stay out of jail while your case is pending. In some cases, you may be released on your own recognizance.
- Pretrial hearings: These happen before a trial. Your lawyer will challenge the evidence, argue legal points, and work to get charges dropped or reduced.
- Trial or negotiation: If your case goes to trial, both sides present their evidence. Some cases are resolved before trial through negotiation or dismissal.
Our lawyers for sex crimes in Berkeley will walk you through every step, explain what to expect, and prepare you ahead of time so you’re never left wondering what’s next. When you have Silver Law Firm by your side, you’re not just waiting—you’re preparing.
What Your Defense Could Look Like in a Berkeley Sex Crime Case
Not every accusation is true. Many defenses are possible depending on your case, such as:
- Consent: In some cases, the main issue is whether the contact was consensual.
- Mistaken identity: Someone may have accused the wrong person.
- False accusations: Allegations are sometimes made out of anger or revenge.
- Lack of evidence: There may not be enough proof to convict.
- Illegal search or seizure: If police violated your rights, key evidence could be thrown out.
We’ll explore all possible defenses based on the facts and the law. We don’t stop at the surface—we will always look deeper. The defense we develop will be based on the unique circumstances of your case.
Our Berkeley Sex Crime Lawyer Can Help Protect Your Future
If you’re being investigated and questioned for—or have already been charged with—a sex crime, now is the time to protect yourself. At Silver Law Firm, our sex crime lawyers in Berkeley take your case seriously.
We’ll listen without judgment, explain where your case stands, and walk you through your legal options under California law. We will thoroughly review every detail of your case, including police reports, bodycam footage, witness statements, and more.
We understand that sex crime cases are legally complex. That’s why we take a meticulous, tailored approach to each client’s case, and we stay in constant contact with you during the process.
We are ready to fight for you with unapologetic tenacity. Call for a free and confidential consultation today.
Call or text (510) 995-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form