Oakland Sex Crime Attorney

Our Dedicated Sexual Offense Lawyer in Oakland Is Ready to Defend You

If you are facing an accusation of having committed a sex crime, you will need the legal attention of our Oakland sex crimes defense attorney from The Castillo Law Office. Sex crimes are some of the most serious offenses and can have major impacts on your future.

We can protect your right to a fair trial so that your voice can be heard. Our goal is to help clients understand the impact that a sex crime conviction can have on their lives and to provide them with the defense needed to obtain a successful result.

Facing serious accusations? Our Oakland sex crime attorney is here to provide guidance. Call now at (510) 894-6626 or contact us online to schedule your free legal consultation.

Types of Sex Crimes We Handle

There are a wide range of sex crime charges you could face under California Penal Code §§ 290 - 294, which is known as the Sex Offender Registration Act.

Some of the most common crimes in California include:

Rape: Defined under California Penal Code 261 as non-consensual sexual intercourse.
Sexual assault: Encompasses a range of non-consensual sexual contact, including unwanted touching or fondling. The definition can extend to various situations and circumstances, often depending on the specifics of each case.
Prostitution and Solicitation: Engaging or soliciting sexual acts in exchange for money.
Indecent Exposure: Defined under California Penal Code 314, it involves the intentional exposure of one’s genitals, pubic area, or buttocks in a public place, or in a place where others may be offended or annoyed.

Our attorney is dedicated to providing strong representation for our clients. If you have been charged with any of these offenses, we can help you avoid the life-altering penalties you could face if convicted.

Legal Implications of Sex Crimes Charges in California

A conviction for a sex crime can lead to a permanent criminal record, impacting future employment, housing, and personal relationships. But that is not all. Allegations and convictions can result in significant social repercussions, including damaged reputations and strained relationships. Additionally, victims may pursue civil suits for damages, leading to financial liability for the accused.

If you are convicted of a sex crime in California, you will be considered a sex offender based on California Penal Code § 290.46. Registered sex offenders can be found listed in the online Megan's Law website.

The penalties for sex crimes in California vary based on the offense's nature, severity, and the defendant’s criminal history. Common penalties include:

Rape: Penalties can range from 3 to 8 years in prison for felony rape, with possible enhancements for certain circumstances (e.g., use of force, multiple victims).
Sexual Assault: Depending on the circumstances, sexual assault can be charged as a misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail) or a felony (up to 4 years in prison).
Prostitution: If it is classified as a misdemeanor, it is typically punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000. Repeat offenses or aggravated circumstances can elevate charges to a felony, leading to 1 to 6 years in prison.

Aggravating Factors

Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties, including having prior convictions, using force or violence to commit the crime and the alleged victim’s age as crimes against minors, especially young children, carry more severe penalties.

With your future at stake, defending against sex crime charges requires a comprehensive understanding of both the law and the nuances of each individual case. Our Oakland sex crimes lawyer approaches each case with a commitment to building a solid defense strategy.

Potential Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges

Several defenses may apply depending on the specifics of the case, including:

Mistaken Identity: In some cases, defendants may be falsely identified as perpetrators of sex crimes. Presenting alibi evidence or demonstrating inconsistencies in witness accounts can be effective in establishing mistaken identity.
Consent: Establishing that the encounter was consensual is a fundamental defense in many sex crime cases. This may involve presenting evidence that supports the defendant’s claim of consent.
Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution bears the burden of proof in sex crime cases. If the evidence presented is insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, a strong defense can lead to an acquittal.
False Accusations: Demonstrating that the allegations are false due to personal motivations, misunderstandings, or ulterior motives can be a powerful defense strategy.
Coercion or Duress: In cases where the defendant was compelled to engage in illegal activities under threats or coercion, this defense may be applicable.

Experienced Representation Against Sex Crimes Accusations

At The Castillo Law Office, we are devoted to providing strong legal guidance for our clients. Each year, many individuals are wrongly charged and convicted of crimes that they did not commit. We can ensure that you obtain the fair trial you deserve and that a strong case has been developed on your behalf.

Whether you need assistance dealing with the media or challenging evidence against you, we can thoroughly investigate your case. Sex crime convictions can seriously damage your future.

Contact our firm at your earliest convenience to get started resolving your case. Call our Oakland sex crimes attorneys at (510) 894-6626.

Hear it From A Few
Of Our Clients

I can't thank Ernie enough for investing his time and sincere efforts to helping my family out. He truly is a master of his craft.
“A few years back, Ernie Castillo represented a family member of mine who was charged with a vehicular offense. Although minor compared to the high profile cases Ernie is accustomed to, Ernie took the case with the utmost professionalism and was able to reduce the charge so that my family member's record was not affected. I can't thank Ernie enough for investing his time and sincere efforts to helping my family out. He truly is a master of his craft.”

MS
I would highly recommend Mr Castillo to anyone.
“Mr Castillo represented me on a criminal case in which I was falsely accused in 2012. He took over the case from a previous lawyer who was less aggressive and not actively pursing my defense. Mr Castillo is a confident, aggressive and very persistent lawyer. He kept my family and I up to date on the case and also returned our calls on time. Mr Castillo persuaded me not to take any deal and wanted take the case to trial because he was confident that he would win. With the Lord's guidance and Ernie's aggressiveness my case was dismissed. I would highly recommend Mr Castillo to anyone.”

DC
I would recommend Mr. Castillo without any reservation.
“Ernie Castillo was highly recommended to us. I researched and interviewed a few attorneys before making a decision of who we were going to select. It's so tough selecting when you're skeptical with the horror stories of attorney's not feeling the passion for their work but the money. After long conversations my husband and I decided to go with Ernie to represent our son in a serious case with multiple charges. We were not disappointed at all. Mr. Castillo expertise exceeded our expectations. His was thorough, he kept us up to date on the case, answered all our questions, returned our calls in a timely manner, he's truly a genuine and sincere person. Most of all his knowledge in handling the case was remarkable. I can't express thanks enough to Ernie for the spectacular job he did defending my son who was facing years in jail. He took a stressful situation and relieved it with a positive outcome. I would recommend Mr. Castillo without any reservation.”

RE