San Diego Sex With a Minor Lawyer

There are few accusations more serious or more emotionally charged than being accused of a sex offense involving a minor. Whether the case involves a false accusation, a misunderstanding, or a consensual relationship where one party was underage, these cases carry heavy legal penalties and intense public scrutiny. If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for a crime involving sex with a minor, you need to act quickly—and you need a defense attorney who understands both the stakes and the nuances of California law.

Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq., Attorney at Law, provides experienced, nonjudgmental representation to individuals facing sex crime charges throughout San Diego County. As a former Public Defender, Anthony knows how prosecutors build these cases and how to challenge them effectively in court. He approaches each case with calm and focus, offering reassurance to clients while mounting a strong and thoughtful defense.

This is not the time to try explaining yourself to the police or hoping the situation blows over. Call our San Diego minor sex crimes lawyer right away so we can protect your rights and begin building your defense.

California’s Laws on Sex With a Minor

Under California law, a person cannot legally consent to sexual activity until they are 18 years old. That means any sexual conduct involving a minor—even if the minor agreed to it—can be charged as a crime. These offenses are sometimes called “statutory rape,” although California doesn’t officially use that term in its penal code.

Common charges include:

Penal Code § 261.5 – Unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor
Penal Code § 288(a) – Lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14
Penal Code § 287 – Oral copulation with a minor
Penal Code § 289 – Sexual penetration with a foreign object involving a minor

The specific charge—and potential penalty—depends on the age of the alleged victim, the age difference between the parties, and the nature of the alleged act. The more significant the age gap or the younger the alleged victim, the more serious the charge.

Potential Penalties and Long-Term Consequences

Sex with a minor charges can be filed as misdemeanors or felonies. A misdemeanor might apply when both parties are close in age, while felony charges are more likely when the alleged victim is significantly younger or the relationship involves coercion, manipulation, or authority figures.

Convictions can result in:

Months or years in county jail or state prison
Felony probation or mandatory supervised release
Thousands of dollars in fines
Mandatory registration as a sex offender under Penal Code § 290
Restrictions on where you can live, work, or travel
A permanent criminal record with a sex offense conviction

The sex offender registration requirement alone can have life-altering consequences, making it difficult to find employment, housing, or maintain custody of your children. In many cases, the mere accusation—before a single fact is proven in court—can lead to job loss, ruined relationships, and social isolation.

That’s why it’s so important to have a defense attorney who knows how to handle these cases with care, discretion, and strategic precision.

Common Defenses to Sex With a Minor Charges in San Diego

While these charges are serious, there are often defenses available. Every case is different, and the facts matter. Anthony Vargas takes the time to learn your side of the story and develop a defense tailored to the details of your situation.

Possible defenses may include:

Mistake of age – In some cases, especially when the accused is under 21 and the minor is close in age, showing a reasonable belief that the person was over 18 can affect how the case is charged or resolved.
False accusation – Unfortunately, people can be falsely accused out of anger, jealousy, or confusion. These cases often lack physical evidence and hinge on credibility.
Insufficient evidence – If the prosecution can’t prove every element of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt, the case must be dismissed.
Lack of intent or actual sexual conduct – In some cases, what’s alleged may not rise to the level of a criminal offense under the law.

These cases often involve sensitive investigations, including phone records, text messages, social media, and forensic analysis. Anthony knows how to examine the evidence, identify weaknesses in the state’s case, and protect your rights every step of the way.

A Judgment-Free Approach to a High-Stakes Situation

At our firm, we understand how scary and isolating it is to be accused of a sex offense—especially when the accusation involves a minor. But you are not your charge, and you deserve to have someone in your corner who will fight for you without judgment.

Anthony Vargas handles every case with professionalism, compassion, and discretion. He will explain your options clearly, answer your questions honestly, and make sure you are informed and empowered throughout the process. Whether the best path is negotiating a favorable resolution or taking the case to trial, Anthony brings experience, confidence, and a relentless commitment to your defense.

Speak to a San Diego Sex With a Minor Defense Attorney Today

If you are facing charges involving sex with a minor in San Diego, do not talk to police or prosecutors without a lawyer. The consequences of a conviction can last a lifetime—but the right defense can make all the difference.

Call Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq. today to schedule a confidential consultation. We represent clients across San Diego County, from the downtown San Diego courthouse to Chula Vista, El Cajon and Vista. Let us help you take control of the situation and fight for your future.