San Diego Sexual Offenses Defense Lawyer

Sex crimes including sexual battery, rape, statutory rape, and spousal rape are aggressively prosecuted and harshly punished in California.  A rape conviction carries serious consequences, including long prison sentences, fines, and registration as a sex offender. In California, a defendant who has been convicted of rape or sexual assault can be civilly committed to a mental hospital as a Sexually Violent Predator after serving a prison sentence.  In addition, a rape accusation involving a minor may result in the accused being listed on the Child Abuse Central Index even if no charges are filed.

Rape Charges

Rape charges may be filed even if there is no physical evidence supporting the arrest or accusation.  The police and prosecutor may rely upon the victim's report of the crime alone when deciding whether to arrest or charge the  accused.  Such a report may be a result of mistaken identity, or ill-will.  Either way, a false accusation of rape or sexual assault may wreak havoc on the personal and professional life of the accused.

Ms. Patterson is among the best sexual assault attorneys in San Diego who knows the rights of the accused, understands sexual assault and California's rape laws.  She will advise and guide you in the defense of your rape charge in a caring, honest and aggressive manner. 

According to California rape laws, touching which may, or may not, include sexual intercourse:

  • The victim could not give consent
  • The victim could not give consent because of age, disability or disorder
  • The victim was asleep, unaware the act occurred, or misled by the perpetrator
  • The victim was unable to consent because of intoxication that should have been reasonably apparent to the perpetrator
  • The victim was a minor

Ms. Patterson can provide advice and guidance for those accused of assault, rape, spousal rape, and statutory rape in San Diego.

If you are being investigated or have been arrested or charged with rape or assault, don't wait to contact the Law Office of Stacie L. Patterson or call (619) 269-8074 for an assessment of your case.