Best Sex Crime Lawyer Los Angeles – Helfend Law Group

Sex crime accusations carry a profound stigma that can impact every aspect of your life, from your relationships to your career and reputation.

Even if your case never reaches a courtroom, the mere allegation can be enough to cause lasting damage to your personal and professional relationships.

With an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at the scene early on, you stand the best chance of not only beating the allegations against you, but also protecting your personal and professional reputation.

Practicing since 1984, Los Angeles sex crimes attorney Robert M. Helfend of Helfend Law Group has successfully defended hundreds of sex crimes cases, earning accolades from SuperLawyers, Lead Counsel and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100. Call 800-834-6434 to schedule your free consultation.

Why hire the Helfend Law Group for your case?

As we mentioned above: This is not a time to work with a a junior attorney or a criminal defense lawyers who don’t have the time to manage your case personally.

Attorney Robert M. Helfend handles every case taken by the Helfend Law Group personally, and he brings more than 40 years of experience to every case he represents. He is a specialist in sex crimes cases, having defended hundreds of sex crimes cases, from simple sexual assault and lewd acts cases to complex child pornography cases.

When you work with the Helfend Law Group, you get:

  • Personal attention
  • Thorough investigation of your case and separate forensic evaluation
  • End-to-end care, taking your case to trial if needed

Sex crime cases often turn on details that aren’t obvious at first glance. Early in the process, your legal team may need to move quickly to preserve evidence, identify witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s version of events before a case gains momentum.

Depending on the allegations, a defense may involve working with investigators, medical professionals, or forensic experts to review and challenge the evidence. This is especially important in Los Angeles County sex crime cases involving digital data, disputed statements, or claims that rely heavily on credibility.

What is considered a sex crime in California?

California law doesn’t specifically define “sex crimes.” Instead, state law outlines various offenses involving sexual misconduct, each with their own elements and penalties. They are often collectively referred to as “sex crimes.”

Sex crimes are serious offenses, and they can result in significant legal penalties, including jail time and mandatory sex offender registration.

Depending on the specifics of the case, a sex crime conviction can also result in the loss of professional certifications, limiting your ability to find work. It can limit where you are legally allowed to live, and it can jeopardize your immigration status.

What happens if someone accuses me of a sex offense?

Many sex crime allegations involve conflicting statements and limited physical evidence. In these cases, the prosecution’s case may depend heavily on credibility, timing, and what investigators believe happened based on interviews and context. That is why it can be risky to assume the truth will “come out on its own” without legal representation.

It is also common for investigators to look beyond the initial report. Police may review prior communications, search digital devices, and interview other potential witnesses as they build a criminal prosecution. Early intervention can sometimes shape how the investigation unfolds and whether charges are filed.

Every case is different, but below is a general outline of how a typical sex crimes case might unfold:

  1. The alleged crime is reported
  2. The accuser is interviewed
  3. Forensic investigation
  4. “Pretext call” – In a pretext call, police can have the accuser make a phone call to the suspect in order to secure a confession while the suspect is unaware that police are listening in. 
  5. Investigation of other misconduct
  6. The suspect is interviewed

If there is enough evidence to support it, the suspect can then be arrested by law enforcement and charged with a sex offense.

What should I do if someone accuses me of a sex crime?

If you are accused of a sex crime in Los Angeles, your actions in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Here are critical steps to take to protect your freedom:

  1. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Even if you believe you can “clear things up,” anything you say can be used against you. Politely but firmly assert your right to remain silent until your lawyer is present.
  2. Retain an experienced defense attorney. Engage a criminal defense law firm as soon as possible. Your attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights and begin crafting a defense strategy tailored to your case.
  3. Avoid contact with the alleged victim. Reaching out to the alleged victim or any potential witnesses could be misconstrued as witness tampering or intimidation, leading to additional criminal charges. Let your attorney handle all communication.
  4. Preserve evidence and records. Save any communications, photos, or other documentation related to the accusation. This evidence may help refute claims or provide context.
  5. Don’t talk about your case. Refrain from discussing the case with anyone besides your lawyer. This includes friends, family and especially social media, where statements can be misconstrued or used against you in court.
  6. Stay calm and composed. Being accused of a sex crime is overwhelming, but staying calm can help you make rational decisions and protect your freedom. Lean on your legal team for support and guidance throughout the process.

What to expect after an arrest in a Los Angeles sex crimes case

After an arrest, most people enter the Los Angeles court system quickly. Your first appearance may include arraignment, bail conditions, and early protective orders. A superior court judge can impose strict release terms even before the case has been fully investigated.

In many cases, the deputy district attorney will argue for conditions that restrict contact, travel, or access to certain places. The court may also issue temporary criminal protective orders and set future court dates that become critical deadlines for your defense.

This early window matters. A defense attorney can begin gathering records, locating witnesses, and identifying weaknesses in the evidence while your case is still developing.

If I am arrested, how is bail handled in Los Angeles sex crimes cases?

In Los Angeles, bail amounts are typically determined by the Los Angeles County bail schedule, which assigns specific bail amounts to various crimes.

However, judges have the discretion to adjust these amounts based on factors such as the severity of the alleged offense, the defendant’s criminal history and the perceived risk to the community.

For sex crimes, bail amounts are often higher to reflect the gravity of the charges. In cases involving multiple counts, prosecutors may “stack” bail amounts, leading to a significantly higher total bail.

Additionally, the court may impose a Penal Code § 1275 hold, which requires the defendant to prove that bail funds are from legitimate sources and not from criminal activities. This process involves providing detailed financial documentation to demonstrate the legality of the funds used for bail.

Given the complexities of bail in criminal cases involving sex crimes, if someone you know has been arrested and charged with a sex crime, it’s a good idea to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can navigate the bail process effectively.

Helfend Law Group sex crime practice areas

The Helfend Law Group defends against all types of sex crimes. This includes:

Child molestation – Penal Code Section 288.5 PC

Child molestation is often charged as “continuous sexual abuse of a child” under California Penal Code Section 288.5 PC. This applies when an adult is accused of committing three or more acts of substantial sexual conduct or lewd acts with a child under the age of 14 over a period of three months or longer. These allegations are among the most serious sex offenses in the state and carry the possibility of decades in prison.

Los Angeles County prosecutors take an especially aggressive stance on these cases. The District Attorney’s Office has dedicated sex crimes units, and local law enforcement often works closely with specialized task forces when investigating allegations involving underage minors. Even before charges are filed, police reports and interviews with alleged victims are used to build a case that can be difficult to challenge without an experienced defense attorney.

A conviction for continuous sexual abuse can bring a sentence of up to 16 years in state prison and mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender. Defending against these charges requires a careful legal defense strategy that examines every detail, from the credibility of the alleged victim to whether false accusations or prior convictions influenced the case. For people accused in Los Angeles, early intervention by a skilled law firm can mean the difference between years of prison time and a more favorable outcome.

Important links:

Child pornography – Penal Code Section 311.11 PC

It’s illegal to create, sell or possess photographs, films or digital files that depict a person under 18 years of age engaging in or simulating sexual conduct. Even “sexting” a naked picture of a minor can get you in trouble for child pornography in California.

Some of the most common child pornography crimes prosecuted in California include:

  • Child Pornography Possession
  • Child Pornography Distribution
  • Peer to Peer Sharing of Child Pornography
  • Possession of Obscene Material

The consequences of child pornography charges are varied and can be extremely severe. A defendant may lose his or her job and may face ruined personal and professional relationships, not to mention social ostracism and even such extremes as threats of injury and worse. If convicted, a defendant may face imprisonment and fines.

At a state level, child pornography is a “wobbler” offense and may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the particular circumstances. A defendant may also be face sentenced with multiple counts of child pornography possession at once, one for each picture, video or other material allegedly found in his or her possession. This means that the criminal penalties can quickly add up. If a defendant is charged in federal court, the penalties are even more severe.

Important links:

Failure to register as a sex offender – Penal Code Section 290 PC

Under California Penal Code Section 290, anyone convicted of certain sex crimes must register as a sex offender with local law enforcement. Registration must be renewed every year within five working days of the person’s birthday, and updates are required any time there is a change of residence. Even a missed deadline or paperwork error can be treated as a violation.

In Los Angeles County, prosecutors pursue failure to register cases aggressively. The District Attorney’s Office views noncompliance as a threat to public safety, and judges in downtown Los Angeles and surrounding courthouses often impose harsh sentences. Depending on the underlying conviction, failing to register can be charged as either a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in county jail or as a felony that may lead to state prison time.

These cases are complex because people accused may not have intended to break the law. Moves between counties, misunderstandings about reporting deadlines, or even clerical mistakes by police departments can trigger charges. A skilled defense attorney can review the police report, establish a reasonable belief of compliance, and argue for dismissal or reduced penalties. Early intervention is critical to avoid additional jail time and to protect your future.

Important links:

Indecent exposure – Penal Code Section 314 PC

Indecent exposure involves deliberately exposing one’s genitals to someone else with the intent to offend or for sexual gratification. It is sometimes charged in conjunction with the crime of “lewd conduct in public” (Penal Code 647a PC).

While indecent exposure carries a relatively light sentence in terms of jail time, it does carry a mandatory 10-year registration as a sex offender.

Important links:

‘One Strike’ cases – Penal Code Section 667.61 PC

“One Strike” charges can apply in cases where the victim is accused of committing a sex crime that also involves specific aggravating factors. These can include previous convictions for specified sex offenses, committing the offense during a burglary or kidnapping the victim.

The purpose of this law is to impose severe punishments for particularly heinous sex crimes, and punishments can range as high as life in prison.

Important links:

Oral copulation with a minor – Penal Code Section 287 PC

Oral copulation with a minor involves cases where someone older than 18 engages in oral sex with someone younger than 18. In cases where the oral sex was not consensual, this can also result in “oral copulation by force or fear” charges.

This crime is a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony sex crime, depending on the facts of the case. In either case, it carries mandatory sex offender registration.

Important links:

Rape – Penal Code Section 261 PC

Rape is defined under Penal Code Section 261 as nonconsensual sexual intercourse committed through force, threats, duress, fraud, or when the alleged victim is unconscious or otherwise unable to give consent. California law treats this offense as one of the most serious sex crimes, and penalties are severe. A conviction may result in state prison time and mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender.

In Los Angeles, rape cases are often assigned to specialized units within the District Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors rely heavily on physical evidence, police reports, and the testimony of the alleged victim to build their case. Jury pools in Los Angeles County can also be influenced by the region’s high-profile media coverage of sex crimes, which makes defending these charges especially complex.

Possible sentences include up to eight years in state prison, with longer terms if certain aggravating factors are present, such as multiple alleged victims or the use of a weapon. A strong legal defense strategy may challenge whether consent was present, whether the prosecution can prove specific intent, or whether false accusations played a role. Early intervention by an experienced defense attorney can help secure a more favorable outcome and reduce the risk of the maximum penalties.

Important links:

Revenge Porn – Penal Code Section 647(j)(4) PC

Revenge porn describes the act of intentionally distributing an intimate image of someone else when there was a previous understanding that the image would be kept private. Penalties for a revenge porn conviction can range as high as a year in county jail and up to $2,000 in fines.

Important links:

Sexual assault & sexual battery – Penal Code Section 243.4 PC

California law prohibits touching the intimate part of another person for purposes of sexual arousal, sexual gratification or sexual abuse when that person does not consent. This is sexual battery, which is also known as sexual assault.

Depending on the circumstances and the severity of the act, sexual battery can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, with penalties that may include imprisonment and/or fines. If convicted, you might also be required to register as a sex offender.

Important links:

Sex offender registry removals

The California sex offender registry is a database of individuals living in the state that have been previously convicted of certain sex crimes. Appearing on California’s Megan’s Law database carries a number of requirements that can make it difficult to find a place to live, a job and otherwise live a normal life.

Depending on the circumstances around your conviction, it might be possible to be removed from the registry.

Important links:

Solicitation of a prostitute – Penal Code Section 647(b) PC

It’s illegal in California to ask, entice or encourage someone else to engage in prostitution. You do not need to actually engage in sexual intercourse in order to be charged for soliciting a prostitute.

As a result, police departments routinely run “stings” with officers posing as prostitutes. If you have been caught in one of these stings, it’s important to speak with experienced sex crimes defense lawyers.

Statutory rape – Penal Code Section 265.5 PC

Statutory rape describes a case in which a person who is older than 18 has sexual intercourse with someone who was younger than 18 at the time of the encounter. Many states have “Romeo and Juliet” laws, which make it legal for two parties to have intercourse if they were around the same age, but that is not the case in California. It is always illegal to have intercourse with someone younger than 18.

Statutory rape can be treated as a misdemeanor sex crime or felony, depending on the facts of the case.

Important links:

Sexual penetration with a foreign object – Penal Code Section 289 PC

This law makes it a felony to commit nonconsensual penetration with any object or body part other than a sexual organ. In Los Angeles, prosecutors handle these cases as seriously as rape, and enhancements apply when the alleged victim is a child.

The maximum prison terms depend on the age of the victim. For an adult victim, the maximum is 8 years in state prison. If the victim is under 18, the maximum increases to 10 years. If the victim is under 14, the maximum is 12 years.

Convictions also require sex offender registration. Each act can be charged as a separate count, so sentences can add up quickly when prosecutors allege multiple instances of penetration.

Annoying or molesting a child – Penal Code Section 647.6 PC

This statute criminalizes conduct that disturbs or offends a minor under 18 when done with sexual intent. No physical contact is required. Lewd comments, sexual advances, or exposure directed at a child are enough to support charges.

In Los Angeles County, prosecutors often charge 647.6 in combination with other offenses, especially when digital communications or social media are involved. Police reports in these cases frequently come from undercover sting operations.

The penalties depend on the circumstances. A first offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in county jail. If the defendant has a prior sex offense conviction, the charge can become a felony with up to 3 years in state prison. Any conviction under this statute requires sex offender registration.

Sexting and internet crimes against minors

California law makes it illegal to solicit, send, or possess sexual images of minors. This includes asking an underage minor to send explicit photos, forwarding such images, or possessing child sexual abuse material on any device.

Los Angeles has internet crimes task forces that investigate these cases. Police often run undercover stings posing as minors online. Search warrants target phones, computers, and cloud accounts, and each file or transmission can be charged separately.

Penalties vary depending on the charge. Possession of child pornography is punishable by up to 3 years in state prison. Distribution or sending harmful matter to a minor can carry up to 6 years. Soliciting or luring a minor online for sexual purposes can result in up to 5 years in prison. Felony convictions also require sex offender registration.

Human trafficking for sexual purposes – Penal Code Section 236.1 PC

This offense involves causing or attempting to cause someone to engage in commercial sex through force, fraud, or coercion. When the victim is a minor, proof of coercion is not required.

Los Angeles County has multi-agency task forces dedicated to these cases. Large operations often involve surveillance, financial records, and cooperating witnesses. Multiple victims can lead to multiple felony counts.

Penalties are severe. Human trafficking of an adult for sex is punishable by up to 20 years in state prison. If the victim is a minor and the case involves force, fraud, or coercion, the sentence can be 15 years to life. Convictions also carry fines up to $500,000 and lifetime sex offender registration.

Unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor (statutory rape) – Penal Code Section 261.5 PC

This law makes sexual intercourse with anyone under 18 illegal, regardless of consent. The penalty depends on the age difference between the accused and the minor.

Los Angeles prosecutors carefully examine the age gap when filing charges. Evidence often includes phone records, texts, and witness statements. Even consensual relationships can lead to charges if one party is underage.

If the accused is not more than three years older than the minor, the offense is a misdemeanor with up to 1 year in county jail. If the age difference is more than three years, it becomes a wobbler with a felony maximum of 3 years in state prison. If the accused is 21 or older and the minor is under 16, the felony maximum is 4 years.

Sexual exploitation of a minor – Penal Code Section 311.3 PC

This statute makes it illegal to knowingly create, duplicate, or exchange media depicting a minor under 18 engaged in sexual conduct. It targets those who employ, coerce, or persuade minors to participate in sexual performances or images.

In Los Angeles, these cases are often built with digital forensics, undercover operations, and testimony from minors. Prosecutors frequently bring multiple counts when several files or victims are involved.

A conviction under Penal Code 311.3 is a felony. Each count is punishable by up to 6 years in state prison. If there are multiple images or victims, sentences can be stacked. Convictions also require mandatory sex offender registration.

Aggravated sexual assault of a child – Penal Code Section 269 PC

This statute applies when a child under 14 is sexually assaulted by someone at least seven years older. It elevates crimes such as rape, sodomy, oral copulation, and penetration when committed against very young victims.

In Los Angeles, these cases are assigned to senior prosecutors and supported by specialized child interview teams. The police report may list repeated conduct over months or years, leading to multiple counts.

The penalty for a conviction under Penal Code 269 is 15 years to life in state prison for each count. Sentences must run consecutively when the offenses involve multiple acts or victims. Lifetime sex offender registration is mandatory.

Penalties for sex crime charges in California

Most sex crimes in California are either felonies or “wobblers.” Wobblers can be either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the facts of the case and your criminal history. Penalties can include, but aren’t limited to:

  • Jail time
  • Fines
  • Restraining orders
  • Mandatory counseling
  • Community service

Will I have to register as a sex offender?

If you are convicted of a sex offense, you might also be subject to mandatory sex offender registration. However, this isn’t Registered sex offenders have to update their information annually and anytime they move.

The California Sex Offender Registry has three tiers:

  • Tier 1: You must register for a minimum of 10 years
  • Tier 2: You must register for a minimum of 20 years
  • Tier 3: You must register for the rest of your life

If you fail to update your registration, you can be charged with failure to register as a sex offender (under Penal Code 290 PC). Penalties for failure to register can depend on the original crime you were charged with, but it can range as high as three years for felons.

Defenses against sex crime charges

Sex crimes are rarely witnessed by anyone other than the accuser and the accused. Evidence is usually sketchy, if there is any evidence at all. This is how innocent people can get caught up in these cases. 

A skilled criminal defense attorney can comb through the details of your case, raising critical pieces of evidence and witness testimony that can see your charges reduced or dropped entirely. 

Call experienced Los Angeles sex crimes attorney Robert M. Helfend today for a free review of your case – 800-834-6434.

– Published January 22, 2013. Updated January 18, 2026..

References

  1. California Penal Code Section 288.5. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN&sectionNum=288.5
  2. California Penal Code Section 311.11. http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN&sectionNum=311.11
  3. 10 U.S. Code § 920. https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10/920
  4. 18 U.S. Code § 2242. https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/2242

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