If I am being charged with molesting a 13 year old girl what am I facing if convicted in terms of prison time? Can I obtain probation or do I have to go to prison if I am found guilty? Penal Code Section 288

The penalties in California for felony child molestation are severe. IF you are found guilty of this offense you are facing a potential state prison sentence of three, six or eight years. IF you are sent to prison you will have to do 85% of the time before you are placed on parole. In addition you would have to register as a sex offender per Penal Code Section 290. However, in some cases, the court can order a Penal Code Section 288.1 report and if the report is positive the court has the power to place you on probation. If you are placed on probation the court can sentence you to up to one year in county jail as a condition of formal probation.

You would have a probation officer and you would still have to register as a sex offender, but if you receive probation you would be avoiding going to state prison.

Sex offense defense in California is a very complicated area. Wallin and Klarich are one of the few law firms in California who have tremendous experience defending people who find themselves accused of sex crimes. Feel free to call us toll free at 877-466-5245 to discuss your case.