If I am convicted of a sexual battery charge, what punishment am I facing? (CPC 243.4)
If you are facing a sexual battery charge in California it is important that you contact an experienced sex crime attorney, as the punishment can have a tremendous affect on your life.
You can be charged with either a felony or misdemeanor for sexual battery under California Penal Code section 243.4 if you touched an intimate part of another person against his or her will for the purpose of sexual arousal or sexual gratification.
Sexual Battery California: Felony or Misdemeanor Charge?
If you are convicted of a misdemeanor sexual battery you can be sentenced to 6 months in county jail, and may also be subject to a maximum $2,000 fine. If you are convicted of a felony sexual battery you can be sentenced to two, three or four years in county jail in addition to a maximum $10,000 fine.
The court has discretion in determining your sentence if you are charged with sexual battery. This means that the court may also choose to place you on probation if the court finds it appropriate under the circumstances. You can be sentenced to probation in addition to jail time, or you can be sentenced to probation in addition to required community service or work release program.
Mandatory Registration as Sex Offender in California
In addition to the possibility of jail time, fines, and probation you also will be required to register as a sex offender under California Penal Code section 290 if you are convicted of sexual battery. If you are required to register as a sex offender it will affect future employment and will also prevent you from having the ability to live in certain areas, including places that are near a school or park. The fact that you are a registered sex offender, in addition to personal information about you will also be available to the public through a website maintained by the Department of Justice.
Speak To An Experienced California Criminal Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been charged with sexual battery it is vital that you contact the attorneys at Wallin & Klarich to assist you through the legal process. The attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have over 30 years of experience successfully defending clients accused of sex crimes and are familiar with the defenses that can assist you to avoid jail time. We have offices in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Victorville and West Covina. Call us today at 877-466-5245. We will get through this together.
