Definition

Child Molestation under California Penal Code Section 647.6, is a criminal offense and it is normally filed as either a misdemeanor. Child Molestation is when a molester annoys, or molests a child, sometimes with the intent of sexual gratification.

A child in this instance is anyone under the age of 18 years old.

Elements of the Crime

In order to take an Child Molestation CPC 647.6 case to trial, certain elements of the crime will have to be proven. This includes:

·         That the defendant deliberately harassed a minor

·         That the defendant may have done so for sexual gratification

Punishments for CPC 647.6

These penalties are to be determined by a judge and he/she will make a decision based on the circumstances surrounding the case.

When found guilty of child molestation, it is usually filed as either a misdemeanor  , which includes:

Misdemeanor charges for Child Molestation include up to one year in jail, or up to five thousand dollars in fine. It could also be a combination of both these charges. Registration as a sex offender is also a probability.

Legal Defenses for California Penal Code 647.6

A good lawyer can present many legal and valid defenses for Child Molestation charges under California Penal Code 647.6 to prove someone’s innocence. MacGregor and Collins is based in Orange County, California, and has successfully defended  those who were falsely accused of Child Molestation. Call (949) 250-6097 to speak to a lawyer, should you be on trial for Child Molestation.