Sex offense allegations
A sexual offense allegation can put personal relationships, employment, and reputation at immediate risk. A careful, discreet review of the evidence is essential.
Understand the allegation.
Allegations may involve disputed consent, age, communications, conduct involving minors, or registration-related obligations. The elements and potential consequences differ substantially by charge.
Issues to examine
The complete context of communications; identification; timelines; witness accounts; forensic evidence; the circumstances of interviews; and the statutory requirements of the charged offense.
What may be at stake
Certain convictions may carry lengthy incarceration and sex offender registration obligations. Registration requirements and duration are offense-specific; they should not be assumed from the label of an allegation.
A practical next step
Preserve devices, messages, and other records without changing them. Follow any protective order. Discuss interview requests and any contact with the reporting person with counsel.
Discuss your situation with Gravitas ↗California Judicial Council: criminal jury instructions ↗
General information, reviewed October 27, 2026. Charges, penalties, defenses, and eligibility depend on current law and the facts. These topics do not represent a promise of an outcome or an offer to accept every matter.