Fresno Sexual Abuse and Assault

Fresno sexual abuse charges generally refer to one adult controlling another or sexual impropriety between an adult and a child.  It indicates a lack of consent on the part of the victim, which can be because the victim is not old enough, does not have the capacity to consent, or has the capacity but does not consent.

Fresno sexual assault charges are very similar to those for sexual abuse.  The most common charge is rape. 

Unfortunately, many charges of sexual assault and sexual abuse in Fresno are based on false allegations.  Such allegations stem from a variety of circumstances:

• A divorcing spouse alleges sexual abuse to gain full custody of the children
• A child makes a Fresno sex abuse charge through the prompting of a parent, or even based on anger over a punishment or some other perceived slight
• A woman alleges sex assault against a famous or wealthy individual for financial gains
• A woman makes a Fresno sexual assault charge out of jealousy or revenge

Charges should be taken seriously whether or not they are true.  Our experienced Fresno sexual assault attorneys can build a strong defense for the accused.

Charges and Defense

Whatever the specific charges, the prosecution must provide solid proof of its case.  Fresno sexual abuse or sexual assault defense can be based on any number of strategies, such as—

• Consent:  When a Fresno sexual assault lawyer can issue a defense indicating that the act was mutually consensual, and both parties have a legal capacity for consent, sexual assault charges in Fresno are no longer valid.
• False accusations:  Many cases of sexual assault are cases of word-against-word.  When a Fresno sexual assault attorney can show that the testimony of the accuser does not prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, the accused may go free.
• Inconsistent evidence:  The Fresno sexual assault defense may focus on pieces of evidence or testimony that prove conflicting circumstances.
• Psychological examinations:  A sexual assault attorney in Fresno may be able to prove that the accuser has a psychological condition placing the testimony's truthfulness in doubt.
• Motive to lie:  In many cases, a sexual assault lawyer in Fresno can point to motives to lie—such as a desire to gain full custody of a child in a divorce action—that can cast doubt on the prosecution.

Sexual assault law in Fresno is complex and requires experienced legal representations.  The Law Office of Rick Berman & Eric Schweitzer has a proven track record for achieving optimal results for clients needing sexual assault defense in Fresno.  Contact the Law Office of Rick Berman & Eric Schweitzer today for a free consultation.