Sexual Assault

San Francisco Sexual Assault Criminal Defense Attorney

John M. Runfola has helped many clients in the San Francisco Bay area and throughout California fight back against unfounded allegations of sexual misconduct. We know that sexual assault cases are uniquely challenging. Resolving these cases can be particularly urgent due to the stigma associated even with an arrest. Sex crimes can include sexual assault, rape, spousal sexual assault (marital rape), sexual conduct with a minor, "date rape," child molestation, statutory rape, child sexual abuse and indecent exposure. In California, if a person is convicted of almost any sex crime he or she will be required to register as a sex offender under Meghan's Law.

We recognize the importance of presenting a balanced picture of our client both in court and in the media. John M. Runfola is adept at identifying and exploiting deficiencies in the prosecution's cases against clients charged with sexual assault.

If you have been charged with sexual misconduct in California, contact sexual assault defense attorney John M. Runfola for determined defense representation.

Aggressive, Creative Defense Against Accusations of Rape and Sexual Assault

Sexual assault and rape cases typically involve physical evidence and questions of consent. As a result, accurate collection, preservation and testing of physical evidence such as blood, semen, DNA, hair, and fiber is crucial for establishing the prosecution's case. Experienced criminal defense attorney, John Runfola works with forensic specialists, lab technicians and psychologists in evaluating the prosecution's case against you and developing the best possible defense in your case. We scrutinize the entire record in a rape or sexual assault case to uncover any violation of your constitutional rights, uncover mishandling of the physical evidence and expose faulty police work. We work hard to identify contradictory testimony and expose medical, psychological, and personal problems that could explain why a victim has leveled charges, and tell your side of the story.

Defending Against Charges of Child Sexual Abuse

Research has demonstrated how highly suggestible children are when asked leading questions by investigators. Sometimes, children are given a doll and asked if they were touched in certain areas; at other times, they may be asked to draw pictures of what is alleged to have happened. In each case, children may offer contradictory testimony or may embellish a story. Physical examinations may be inconclusive. As your attorney in a case alleging child sexual abuse or child molestation, Mr. Runfola may consult with child psychologists and medical experts in order to expose the untrustworthy nature of these kinds of child interviews and the conclusions prosecutors attempt to draw from them.

Effectively Confronting Charges of "Acquaintance Rape"

The Law Offices of John M. Runfola understands the unique legal, social, and emotional pressures associated with charges of sexual misconduct. We are particularly skilled at handling cases of "acquaintance rape."

Psychological problems, medication, or a personal vendetta can lead to charges of date rape or sexual assault when a personal relationship deteriorates. Depending on the facts involved, it may be important to consider your working relationship with your accuser, the personal history between you, and other information. We investigate the personal background of the accuser in order to determine if their friends or acquaintances are aware of certain patterns of behavior on the part of the alleged victim. We subpoena all available records and documents to meaningfully investigate areas that will be useful on cross examination. If you have been charged with date rape or domestic violence, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side.

Upon accepting a client, we vigorously prepare his or her case as if we going to trail and simultaneously attempt to negotiate a settlement that would be most favorable to our client. To schedule a consultation with a sensitive, effective sex crime lawyer, contact the Law Offices of John M. Runfola through this Web site or by phone at 415-391-4243.