Statutory Rape Attorney Salinas

Facing Life-Changing Sex Crime Charges

If you or someone you love has been accused of statutory rape in or around Salinas, you are dealing with a situation that can change everything. You may be worried about jail, a permanent record, and what family, friends, or employers will find out. It is normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn.

I defend people who are under investigation or already charged with statutory rape in the Monterey County Superior Court in Salinas. These cases carry serious penalties and a heavy stigma, and they also raise complicated questions about ages, relationships, and actual consent. As a statutory rape attorney, my role is to protect your rights, guide you through the process, and help you make informed decisions at every stage.

From the first phone call, our conversation is confidential. I listen carefully, review what has happened so far, and explain how California law applies to your situation. My goal is to provide calm, clear advice so you can move from panic to a plan.

Facing statutory rape charges in Salinas? Speak with a knowledgeable statutory rape lawyer today to understand your rights and next steps—call (888) 315-0588.

How I Approach These Cases

Statutory rape accusations are different from many other criminal charges. The facts often involve private relationships, online communication, and strong emotions on all sides. In my criminal defense practice, I work with clients facing sex offense allegations, including statutory rape, and I understand how quickly these cases can escalate in Monterey County.

I regularly represent people whose cases are filed at the Monterey County Superior Court in Salinas. This includes cases investigated by the Salinas Police Department or the Monterey County Sheriff's Office. Knowing how local prosecutors often charge and negotiate these cases helps me give you realistic advice about your options.

When I take on a statutory rape case, I start by gathering and reviewing every piece of available information, such as police reports, witness statements, and digital records. I look closely at ages, timelines, prior contact between the people involved, and how the investigation was handled. I also want to understand your background, your family responsibilities, and what you are most worried about, so that the defense strategy fits your life, not just the charges.

Confidentiality and trust are essential in this work. I provide a private space where you and your family can talk openly about what happened without fear of judgment. During the case, I keep you informed about hearings, deadlines, and key decisions, and I explain the pros and cons of different paths, whether that is fighting charges in court or considering negotiated outcomes.

What To Do After An Allegation

The first hours and days after a statutory rape allegation can have a lasting impact on your case. You might receive a call from a Salinas detective asking you to tell your side, or you may already have a date to appear at the Monterey County Superior Court. Family members of the alleged victim might also reach out. It is very important to move carefully.

You have the right to remain silent and to have a lawyer with you during any questioning. People often think they can clear things up by talking, but statements made to police or schools can be used against you later. Before you respond to any investigator or sign anything, it is wise to get legal advice from a statutory rape lawyer Salinas residents can contact quickly.

If you or a loved one is facing an allegation, these steps can help protect you:

• Do not talk about the situation with police, school staff, or the other family until you speak with a lawyer.
• Save messages, photos, social media posts, and contact information that might relate to the relationship or the night in question.
• Avoid posting anything online about the case or the people involved.
• Write down what you remember about important dates, places, and conversations while they are still fresh.
• Contact my office as soon as you can so I can speak for you and help prepare for any interviews or court dates.

Early representation can make a real difference. In some situations, I can communicate with law enforcement before charges are filed or begin planning for the first appearance in the Salinas courthouse. The sooner I understand what is happening, the more effectively I can help you respond.

California Statutory Rape Laws

To understand what you are facing, it helps to know how California treats statutory rape. In this state, the age of consent is generally 18. That means sexual intercourse with someone under 18 can be charged as statutory rape, even if the younger person agreed in fact and never said no. The law focuses on age, not just actual consent.

California law allows prosecutors to charge statutory rape in different ways, depending on the age difference and the circumstances. If both people are close in age, charges might be filed as a misdemeanor. If there is a larger age gap or if there are prior convictions, prosecutors may seek a felony. The exact charge affects the possible sentence and how the case is handled in Monterey County courts.

Potential penalties can include jail or prison time, probation, fines, and various court-ordered conditions. In some situations, a conviction can lead to sex offender registration, which can affect where you live, where you work, and how you move forward with your life. These rules are detailed, and whether they apply depends on the specific statute and facts.

Beyond formal penalties, statutory rape charges can create serious collateral problems. A conviction can affect immigration status, professional licenses, college or graduate school applications, and many types of employment. I take time to discuss these possible impacts with clients in Salinas so that any decision about plea offers or trial takes your whole future into account.

Defenses & Case Strategies

Every statutory rape case is unique, and there is no single defense that fits everyone. My first step is to understand what the prosecution would have to prove, what evidence they plan to use, and where there may be weaknesses or room for doubt. Then I work with you to decide what approach makes the most sense in the Monterey County court system.

In many cases, the reality of the relationship is more complex than the accusation suggests. There may be questions about how old each person said they were, how long they knew each other, or whether parents or others were aware of the relationship. The law treats minors differently from adults, but issues like mistaken age or close age gaps can be important when arguing about charges or negotiating outcomes.

Digital evidence often plays a central role. Text messages, social media conversations, photos, location data, and call records can clarify timelines and sometimes challenge the way events are being described. I carefully review this material when it is available, and I talk with you about what it shows and how a judge or jury might see it.

Strategy also depends on your goals and your risk tolerance. Some clients in Salinas want to fight charges all the way through trial if necessary. Others are more focused on reducing the potential penalties or avoiding registration. I explain the range of possibilities, how judges in the Salinas courthouse typically handle similar cases, and what preparation is needed if we decide to file motions, challenge evidence, or go before a jury.

Throughout the process, I provide direct advice in plain language. I do not promise specific results, because outcomes depend on many factors, including facts, law, and the decisions of prosecutors and judges. What I can offer is careful preparation, close attention to the details of your case, and a defense that is built around your real concerns and priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have to register as a sex offender?

Not every statutory rape conviction leads to registration, but some do. It depends on the specific charge, your record, and current California registration rules. I review these details with you so you understand the risks before deciding how to handle your case.

What happens at my first court date in Salinas?

At the first appearance in the Monterey County Superior Court in Salinas, the judge typically tells you the charges and addresses release conditions. If I represent you, I appear with you, speak on your behalf, and begin protecting your rights from the start of the case.

Should I talk to the police before I hire you?

In most situations, it is safer not to talk to police about statutory rape allegations before speaking with a lawyer. Even truthful statements can be misunderstood or used against you. I can advise you about whether an interview is a good idea and, if so, help you prepare.

Can a consensual relationship still lead to charges?

Yes. Under California law, a relationship can be considered consensual in fact but still lead to statutory rape charges if one person is under 18. The law focuses on age and age differences. I explain how these rules affect your case and what arguments may still be available.

How quickly can you start on my case?

When you contact my office, I try to respond as promptly as possible because early steps matter. We can typically schedule a consultation quickly, review what has happened so far, and plan for any upcoming contact with law enforcement or the Salinas court.

Talk To A Statutory Rape Lawyer

If you or a family member is facing statutory rape charges in Salinas, you do not have to try to navigate this alone. The stakes are high, and the choices you make now can affect your freedom, your reputation, and your future. Speaking with a statutory rape attorney Salinas residents can reach directly is an important first step.

When you contact Lavorato & Scott, I will listen to your concerns, explain the court process in Monterey County, and discuss possible paths forward. Our conversation is confidential, and there is no judgment. I work to provide clear advice so you understand your options before you make any major decisions about your case.

Schedule your confidential consultation online or call us at (888) 315-0588 today to speak with a Salinas statutory rape lawyer and understand your legal options.