Child Molestation Law in California – Penal Code 647.6 PC
Facing an allegation of child molestation in California is one of the most serious and life-altering situations a person can experience.
Even an accusation—without a conviction—can permanently damage your reputation, career, family relationships, and future.
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for child molestation under California Penal Code 647.6 PC or related statutes, it is critical to contact an experienced California sex crimes defense attorney immediately.
Early legal intervention can make the difference between dismissed charges and a lifelong sex offender designation.
At Cron, Israels & Stark, we defend individuals accused of child molestation throughout California with discretion, precision, and aggressive advocacy.
Schedule your consultation at (424) 372-3112 or contact us here.
What Is Child Molestation Under California Law?
California does not define “child molestation” under a single statute. Instead, the term refers to several sex-related crimes involving minors, depending on the child's age, the nature of the conduct, and whether force or coercion was involved.
Key California Child Molestation Statutes
Penal Code 647.6 PC – Annoying or Molesting a Child
This statute criminalizes conduct motivated by an unnatural or abnormal sexual interest in a minor under the age of 18.
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Typically charged as a misdemeanor
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Punishable by up to 1 year in county jail
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Can be elevated to a felony in repeat-offense cases
Penal Code 288(a) – Lewd or Lascivious Acts with a Child Under 14
This felony offense applies when a person touches a child under 14—or causes the child to touch them—with the intent to arouse sexual desires.
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Punishable by up to 8 years in state prison
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Mandatory sex-offender registration
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No physical injury is required for conviction
Penal Code 288(c)(1) – Lewd Acts with a Minor Aged 14 or 15
Applies when the accused is at least 10 years older than the minor.
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Charged as a misdemeanor or felony
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Sentencing depends on facts, age gap, and prior record
Penal Code 288.5 – Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child
Applies when three or more qualifying acts occur over a period of at least three months with a child under 14.
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Felony offense
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Punishable by up to 16 years in state prison
Related Sex Crime Charges
Child molestation allegations often accompany or escalate into related offenses, including:
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Internet-based sex crime allegations
What Must the Prosecution Prove?
To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:
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You willfully touched a child or caused a child to touch you
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The act was done with specific sexual intent
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The conduct was motivated by sexual arousal or gratification
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The child fell within the protected age range under the statute
In many cases, there is no physical evidence—only an allegation. These cases often rely entirely on testimony, which can be challenged.
Why Child Molestation Allegations Are Especially Dangerous
Child molestation cases are uniquely difficult because:
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Accusations alone can destroy reputations
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Children may be influenced by adults or misunderstand events
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False allegations can arise from custody disputes, family conflict, or manipulation
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Law enforcement and prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions
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Convictions trigger mandatory sex offender registration, often for life
You cannot afford to “wait and see” how the case develops.
Common Legal Defenses to Child Molestation Charges
A skilled defense attorney may assert one or more of the following defenses:
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No sexual intent – The contact was accidental or non-sexual
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False allegations – Motivated by family disputes, coaching, or retaliation
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Lack of credibility – Inconsistent statements or unreliable testimony
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Age-based defenses – Statutory requirements not met
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Unlawful police conduct – Improper interviews or investigative errors
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Insufficient evidence – Failure to meet the burden of proof
Each case requires a customized defense strategy based on facts, evidence, and procedural errors.
Why You Need an Experienced Sex Crimes Defense Attorney
Child molestation charges carry some of the harshest penalties in California criminal law. A conviction can result in:
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State prison sentences
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Lifetime sex offender registration
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Permanent criminal record
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Loss of employment and housing
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Irreparable damage to family relationships
At Cron, Israels & Stark, we conduct independent investigations, challenge witness credibility, consult forensic experts when necessary, and fight relentlessly to protect your rights.
Speak With a Los Angeles Child Molestation Defense Lawyer Today
If you are under investigation or have been charged with child molestation under Penal Code 647.6 or related statutes, time is critical. The sooner you involve a defense attorney, the more options you have.
📞 Call Cron, Israels & Stark at (424) 372-3112
🔒 All consultations are confidential
📍 Serving clients throughout California
Your future is too important to leave to chance.
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