CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Willful Exposure to Infectious Disease

Controlling the Spread of Infectious Diseases in Los Angeles with Strict Measures

In an attempt to control the spread of contagious and sexually transmitted diseases, the Californian state has implemented stringent measures that involve punishing individuals who knowingly infect others with various illnesses, particularly sexually transmitted infections. The Health and Safety Codes 120290 and 120291 govern these laws in Los Angeles. Although these measures may be considered controversial, they remain helpful in reducing the rate of infections throughout the state.

Understanding the Laws Governing Willful Exposure to Infectious Diseases in Los Angeles

According to the Health and Safety Code 120290, individuals who are aware of their infectious or contagious health status should not willfully expose others to the same conditions. This law also prohibits them from intentionally exposing another person who may not have the same illness. Additionally, this law encompasses the act of putting an infected person in a place or circumstance where they may infect others.

On the other hand, Health and Safety Code 120291 applies only to HIV transmission. This code considers unprotected sex a serious offense when engaged in willfully or without revealing one’s HIV status. Even if an individual did not have the intention to harm their partner, they could still be found guilty of violating the code.

Penalties for Violating Health and Safety Laws

The Los Angeles authorities consider the violation of Health and Safety Code 120290 a punishable crime. A guilty party can face up to six months of imprisonment in a Los Angeles county jail or a maximum fine of $1,000.

When an individual violates the Health and Safety Code 120291, the county considers it a felony. This offense can result in a sentence of no less than three years in a state prison.

Conviction for Willful Exposure to Infectious Diseases

To convict an individual of willful exposure to infectious diseases, the prosecutor must prove that the accused party exposed someone to a contagious illness. They should also prove that the defendant knew of their infectious status at the time of exposure and that they intended to infect the other party. However, proving the intention aspect is typically difficult since the clause is not clearly defined in the Health and Safety Codes, giving the accused party leverage in their defense.

Importance of Hiring a Lawyer

Willful exposure to infectious diseases in Los Angeles is a serious offense, and individuals need to take the necessary precautions and prepare a strong defense to avoid imprisonment. Hiring a lawyer is crucial since they can help prove that the defendant had no intent to expose someone to an infectious disease. In the case of willful exposure to HIV, the lawyer can assist in proving that the defendant did not intend to infect their sexual partner with the virus. The defense team will also provide evidence that the defendant restricted sexual activity to oral sex and that they informed their partner of their infectious status before engaging in sexual activity.

Further Information about Willful Exposure to Infectious Diseases in Los Angeles

– According to the Health and Safety Code governing willful exposure to infectious diseases, exposing another person to the disease is a crime regardless of whether they contract the illness or not.
– A defense that states that the defendant had no knowledge of their infectious status may not always make the case invalid since the defense will depend on whether the accused party suspected they had the illness or not.
– Common diseases like a cold or flu are unlikely to be prosecuted in Los Angeles.

In conclusion, individuals convicted for willful exposure to infectious diseases need to contact qualified lawyers who can provide the necessary legal representation. The lawyers will help them understand their options and prepare a defense that proves their innocence. These measures aim to curb the spread of infectious diseases and create a healthy community where all residents can live without fear of exposure to an infectious disease.