Sex Trafficking Lawyer in Riverside, California

It is important to note that the State is only allowed to introduce evidence that was legally obtained. There are many rules that govern how, when, and where police may gather evidence against a criminal suspect. When these rules are violated, a sex trafficking attorney in Riverside or San Bernardino may move the trial court to exclude the illegally obtained evidence.

Under the law, evidence seized in violation of a defendant’s constitutional rights is considered the “fruit of the poisonous tree” and cannot be introduced at trial. The State’s case may also be weakened by a thorough and detail-oriented cross-examination of key witnesses. Biases and inconsistencies in a witness’ account of events may discredit much of his or her testimony in the eyes of the jury.

It is important that every opportunity be taken to defend a case in which the defendant is accused of recruiting, funding, marketing, soliciting, or otherwise participating in the crime of sex trafficking because a conviction can result in heavy fines and a lengthy period of incarceration (up to 15 years in the federal system, for example).

Any sex crime conviction can be embarrassing and limit the defendant’s future employment and housing options. A conviction for sex trafficking can also result in the defendant’s name being added to the sex offender registry. Because of the current focus on this particular crime, both state and federal prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions under laws like the federal and California Trafficking Victims Protection Acts.