Riverside County Defense Attorney For Sex Offenses And Gun Charges
Kenneth J. Kahn has more than three decades of criminal defense experience with misdemeanor and felony charges. Having worked on both sides of the courtroom, Mr. Kahn is able to bring his clients savvy strategies for excellent results, protect their rights and give them confidence to face their future.
In California, sex offenses and gun charges encompass a variety of illegal activities, such as:
- Rape: Nonconsensual sexual intercourse achieved through force, threats or when the victim is incapacitated.
- Sexual battery: Unwanted and intentional touching of another person’s intimate parts for sexual arousal, gratification or abuse.
- Child molestation: Engaging in or attempting lewd acts with a minor.
- Statutory rape: Sexual intercourse with a person who is below the age of consent, which is 18 in California, regardless of whether they gave consent.
- Indecent exposure: Deliberately exposing one’s genitals in public to offend or alarm others.
- Possession of child pornography: Having or distributing any material that depicts minors engaged in sexual conduct.
- Sexual assault: A broad category that includes any nonconsensual sexual act, often involving coercion or force.
- Lewd conduct in public: Engaging in sexual acts in a public place where others might see and be offended.
- Solicitation for prostitution: Offering or agreeing to exchange money or something of value for sexual acts.
- Human trafficking for sexual purposes: Recruiting, transporting or harboring individuals for the purpose of sexual exploitation.
- Illegal possession of a firearm: Possessing a firearm without the proper permits/registration required by California law.
- Assault with a firearm: Using a firearm to threaten or harm someone.
- Negligent discharge of a firearm: Firing a gun in a manner that violates local ordinances and state safety laws.
These offenses carry serious legal consequences and vary in severity depending on the specifics of each case.
Are Sex Offenses Misdemeanors Or Felonies?
Sex offenses in California can be either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the nature and severity of the offense. Some less severe offenses may be charged as misdemeanors, while more serious offenses, especially where the alleged victim is younger than age 16, are typically charged as felonies.
What Is The Most Common Gun Charge?
One of the most common gun charges in California is “Carrying a Concealed Firearm” (Penal Code Section 25400). It is illegal in California to carry a concealed firearm on your person or in a vehicle without a proper permit for carrying a concealed weapon (“CCW”). This gun charge may be unconstitutional under the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. However, the United States Supreme Court has not heard an on-point case challenging this law. Carrying a concealed weapon may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony (hence, it is a “wobbler”).
Penalties for violating this law include one year in county jail for a misdemeanor and up to three years in prison for a felony, plus a heavy fine along with probation.
Possible defenses might involve:
- Arguing a violation of the Fourth Amendment due to unlawful search and seizure
- Not knowing the firearm was there
- Proving the gun was in a locked container or in the trunk of your car
- Showing you have a valid permit or license to carry the weapon
The charge you might face depends on the specific details of your case and your previous criminal history. Having a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney in your corner can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
No Matter The Charges You Are Facing – Contact An Experienced Defense Attorney
If you are contending with charges for sexual assault, dangerous weapons, illegal gun possession, reckless discharge or any other type of gun charge or sex crime, send an email or call Law Offices of Kenneth J. Kahn, P.C., in Riverside at 951-618-8953 for a consultation. You have a right to an attorney and a right to due process. Mr. Kahn will defend your rights aggressively.