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Accused of a Sex Crime? Campbell Whitten is here to help you fight any battle!

California Sexual Assault Crimes

Falsely Accused of Sexual Battery?

Being accused of sexual assault or battery in California is a serious matter. Due to the stigma associated with sex crimes, accusations alone can cause severe damage to an individual’s personal and professional reputation.

Our Bakersfield criminal defense attorneys at Campbell Whitten defends clients against sexual assault charges. There are several defenses available which could result in a case dismissal or reduction of your charge.

Sexual Battery Laws & Penalties

In California, sexual battery – often referred to as sexual assault – prohibits the unwanted touching of someone else’s intimate body parts for purposes of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse. Sexual battery is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum jail sentence of one year and a fine of up to $2000. If the alleged victim is an employee of the defendant, then the fine increases to $3,000.

However, if certain aggravating factors are present, then sexual battery charge can be elevated to a felony. A felony sexual battery conviction results in a prison sentence of two, three, or four years, as well as a fine of up to $10,000.

Felony penalties apply if:

  • The alleged victim was unlawfully restrained.
  • The alleged victim was institutionalized and either medically incapacitated or seriously disabled
  • The alleged victim was unaware of the nature of the act due to being fraudulently convicted that touching was for professional purposes.
  • The alleged victim was forced to masturbate or touch one of the defendant’s intimate parts or parts of another person.

Remember, a misdemeanor and felony conviction for sexual battery are also punishable by registration as a sex offender.

Call Us at (661) 771-3077 Today!

If you are being falsely accused of sexual battery, it is imperative to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. We can thoroughly review your case and develop an effective case strategy to obtain the most favorable outcome possible.

Contact us and request a free consultation.