Skip to Content
Ventura Trial Attorney
Free 30 Minute Consultation 805-467-6542
Law Office of Christopher P. Welch Law Office of Christopher P. Welch
Top
Statutory Rape
  • Winning Results
    We are committed to getting the best possible resolution in your case.
    Case Results
  • Be Prepared
    We have the knowledge and skills you may need to win your case.
    Know Your Rights
  • Have Questions?
    Our firm is here to provide helpful tips and guidance regarding these matters.
    See Our FAQ

Ventura Statutory Rape Lawyer

What Is Considered Strict Liability Statutory Rape in California?

In California, statutory rape refers to sexual intercourse with a person younger than 18 years of age. This crime is not accomplished by force; in fact, it may actually be part of a dating relationship. If you or someone you love has been accused and charged with statutory rape, you need to seek an experienced Ventura criminal attorney as soon as possible.

Statutory rape is a strict liability offense, meaning that a person is always held responsible for knowing the age of a person with whom they have sexual relations. As a result, a person can be found guilty of the crime even if they honestly believed the other person was 18 or older. Depending on the situation, they may also be considered guilty if the victim consented and gave false information regarding their age.

Call the Law Office of Christopher P. Welch immediately to set up a free consultation with a dedicated criminal defense lawyer.

California Statutory Rape Sentences

Because of the nature of statutory rape, the age of both parties involved is critical in determining the sentencing a person will receive. The closer they are in age, the greater chance the defendant has of receiving minimal charges.

Sentencing guidelines are as follows:

  • In the event that one party is no more than 3 years older than the other, the offense will always be charged as a misdemeanor.
  • If the offender is more than 3 years older than the victim, they may receive charges of committing a felony or a misdemeanor.
  • If the victim is younger than 16 and the offender is at least 21 years of age, the guilty party has an increased chance of receiving a felony charge.

Many charges of statutory rape are unexpected or even unfounded. If you have been accused of statutory rape, it is important that you take immediate action to avoid fines, prison time, and registration as a sex offender. The Ventura sex crimes lawyer at Law Office of Christopher P. Welch has handled a wide range of defense cases for more than a decade. With a 9.5 Avvo rating, he is qualified to help you seek a favorable result in the toughest cases.

Call the firm today to discuss your case in a free consultation! 

Our Verdicts Speak for Themselves

See Our Winning Case Results
  • Not Guilty Facing Life in Prison
  • Not Guilty Resisting Arrest
  • Case Dismissed Domestic Violence
  • Case Dismissed Solicitation for Murder
  • Case Dismissed Domestic Violence
  • Case Dismissed Attempted Rape

The Stories That Matter

See What Our Previous Clients Have to Say
  • “Best Attorney You Could Ask For!”
    “Being there when you need him most, hand in hand. He walks you out of the living hell that had you bound. My Guardian Angel.”
    - Gilbert R.
  • “He Obtained Impossible Results!”
    “Mr. Welch communicated with us every step of the way, making us feel comfortable in his capable hands going through the worst situations our family has faced. We are forever grateful for his help, and can not recommend him enough.”
    - Lynette D.
  • “He Achieved Excellent Results for Me!”
    “He represented us in a difficult legal matter with excellent results. Always available for questions and responds right away. We have a great trust in him which is what one needs in legal matters. Reasonable fees too!”
    - Anthony M.
  • “Well Skilled Attorney!”
    “We were more than pleased with the outcome he provided. My brother was facing a lot of years and Welch managed to get the impossible done. My brother got released on probation. Definitely recommend him.”
    - Stephany P.
  • “The Best Choice!”
    “As an Attorney, he went above and beyond the call of duty to meet my legal needs. I recommend Mr. Welch for any legal counsel 100%. Chris will always reply to your messages or any questions right away and is very courteous and personable!”
    - Janet O.
  • “Cleared My Name”
    “Mr. Welch took care of all my worries and concerns while clearing my name through all the false accusations. I was more than happy with the outcome we were awarded”
    - James D.
  • “Above and Beyond”
    “We are absolutely impressed and satisfied with the effort Chris put in to help us with our case. He literally went above and beyond more then any other public defender that we have ran into.”
    - Jenny T.
  • “Reasonably Priced, Prompt, and Available to Answer My Questions”
    “Chris represented me on a matter I was dealing with to my complete satisfaction. He was reasonably priced, prompt, and available to answer my questions. Most of all, my worry level went from 'elevated' to 'calm' during a 40-minute first consultation that I”
    - Lisa L.

    Request Your Free Consultation Now

    Fill out the following form or call (805) 467-6542 to get started.
    • Please enter your first name.
    • Please enter your last name.
    • Please enter your phone number.
      This isn't a valid phone number.
    • Please enter your email address.
      This isn't a valid email address.
    • Please make a selection.
    • Please enter a message.
    • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy