Sex Crimes Defense

Sex Crimes Defense Attorney in Orlando, Florida 

What is a Sex Crime?

A sex offense is when a person (male or female) sexually abuses or instigates forced sexual encounters through psychological or physical manipulation. 

Why are sex crimes given importance by the law and the enforcing agencies?

Law enforcement officers often rush to investigate sex crimes because of their terrible nature. Prosecutors often believe that justice demands an uncompromising approach to prosecuting charges, even if there are apparent flaws in the evidence.

It is impossible to bring justice when innocent people are prosecuted and when the actual perpetrator of a sexual crime continues to be free from other criminal charges.

Sex crime charges are prevalent. According to Florida’s Trial Court Statistical Reference Guide, more than 3300 sexual offense charges were filed during 2016-17.

The stakes for the accused are high when they are accused of sexual violence. Even misdemeanor sex crimes like prostitution, exhibition, and voyeurism can lead to severe consequences.

An accused of a felony sexually motivated offense could face a long sentence in prison and be designated a sex offender. A conviction for felony sex crimes could result in a lifetime of supervision, making it difficult to find work and a place to call home.

Types of Florida Sex Crimes

Numerous sex-related offenses are included in Florida’s statutes. Florida laws attempt to catch all possible human activities related to sexual misconduct and deviance. The Florida sex crime list could be divided into subcategories, such as prostitution and lewdness. The following offenses are considered sex crimes in Florida:

• Bestiality       
• Child Exploitation        
• Child Molestation 
• Child Pornography
• Federal Sex Crimes
• Forcing Another To Become A Prostitute
• Human Trafficking
• Indecency With A Child
• Indecent Exposure   
• Injunction
• Internet & Computer Sex Crimes    
• Lewd & Lascivious Crimes    
• Pimping & Pandering    
• Prostitution     
• Rape    
• Retail Display of Pornography to a Minor    
• Sale or Distribution to a Minor    
• Sex Trafficking  
• Sexting    
• Sexual Assault     
• Sexual Battery   
• Sexual Predator Act    
• Sexual Tourism  
• Solicitation  
• Stalking     
• Voyeurism

Is prostitution punishable in Florida?

Prostitution offenses are defined in Chapter 796 under the Florida Statutes § 796.07 prohibits and criminalizes prostitution. People who make private property houses of ill reputation or massage parlors into places where lewd acts can be performed under Flordia Statute § 796.07 are also punished. 796.06 prohibits renting property to perform lewd acts or run a prostitution ring. Fla. Stat. § 796.04 also criminalizes attempts to force another person into prostitution. Section 796.05 prohibits pimping and obtaining support from prostitution.

How does the State of Florida define as sexual battery?

Sexual Battery is a wide range of offenses described in greater detail in §§ 794 and 800 Florida Statutes. Sexual Battery includes sexual assault (sometimes called indecent assault) and rape, as well as statutory rape. The severity of penalties for a Chapter 794 Florida Statute convicted person will depend on the facts of the case, the age, and gender of the perpetrator and victim, the authority status of the perpetrator, and any other aggravating factors, such as prior sexual offenses or the presence of or threat to use a weapon.

Fla. Stat. § 794.11 refers to sexual Battery as an oral, vaginal, or oral penetration or union with a sex organ. It also includes penetration of those areas with another object without consent. The statute allows support only to be freely given, voluntarily and intelligently. If permission was obtained through undue influence, it is not considered accessible. A person cannot refuse to fight back or engage in physical altercations and does not consent to them giving their consent.

What does consent mean in Sexual Battery?

“Consent” refers to complete voluntary consent. It does not include any forced sexual approaches or intimate relationships. This does not mean you are unable or unwilling to resist the perpetrator. (Fl. Stat. Title XLVI § 794.011 (1, a-j))

Who is a mentally incapacitated person in Sexual Battery?

“Mentally incapacitated” refers to a temporarily incapacitated person by a drug, anesthetic, or other intoxicating substance. (Fl. Stat. Title XLVI § 794.011 (1, a-j))

Who is the Offender in Sexual Battery?

An “Offender” is a person who has committed an act of sexual assault. (Fl. Stat. Title XLVI § 794.011 (1, a-j))

What does physically helpless mean in Sexual Battery?

“Physically helpless” refers to a situation in which the victim cannot communicate effectively with the perpetrator or defend themselves physically against themselves. (Fl. Stat. Title XLVI § 794.011 (1, a-j))

What does retaliation mean in Sexual Battery?

“Retaliation” refers to situations in which a perpetrator threatens the victim using physical violence, psychological abuse, or forced sex. (Fl. Stat. Title XLVI § 794.011 (1, a-j))

Who is the ‘Victim’ in Sexual Battery?

“Victim” refers to a person who has been sexually assaulted. (Fl. Stat. Title XLVI § 794.011 (1, a-j))

What is a lewd act in Florida?

Chapter 800 of Florida Statutes defines lewdness as the offense of sexual Battery. § 800.04 Fla. Stat. criminalizes sexual activity between a person older than 16 and who is 12 years old. This crime is often referred to as “statutory rape.” This crime is not protected by ignorance of age or the belief that the victim is older than they are, even if misrepresented. Other acts, such as lewd molestation or lewd and lascivious conduct that involves one person touching the sex organs and being unable to consent due to age, are also criminalized by the statute.

Fla. Stat. § 800.4 covers acts described as lewd and lascivious, such as an indecent or public display of genitalia.

Each section of the statute contains a specific penalty for each offense.

Does Florida have laws protecting minors from harmful sexual material?

Fla. Stat. Chapter 847 prohibits the creation and dissemination of obscene matter. The statute was created to protect minors from being sexually exploited and prevent them from becoming prey to consenting adults’ selfish and petty desires. Fla. Stat. § 847.0133 makes it a third-degree felony to show obscene material or content to minors.

So what is considered obscene under Fla. Stat. § 847.001 defines obscenity as material that an adult object to because it appeals to the sexual urge, depicts inappropriate conduct in a way that offends the sexual interest, and has no literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.

What is Sexual Assault? 

According to Florida Statute Title XLVI § 794.011 (2-3), a person who commits or attempts to commit an act of sexual Battery on the sexual organs of a victim can be punished in one or both of these ways depending on their age and victim.

What happens if I get convicted of Sexual Assault?

Statute Section	Offender Age	Victim Age	Penalty
§ 794.011(2a)	18 or older	Less than 12	Capital felony
§ 794. 021(2b)	Younger than 18	Less than 12	Life imprisonment or a fine up to $15,000
§ 794.11(3)	Any age	Any age	Life-threatening offense if the victim is threatened with a deadly instrument or physical violence
§ 794.011(4a)	18 or older	12 to 18	1st-degree felony, leading to a $10,000 fine and/or a 30-year sentence
§ 794.011(4b)	18 or older	18 or more	1st-degree felony, leading to a $10,000 fine and/or a 30-year sentence
§ 794.011(4c)	Younger than 18	Older than 12	1st-degree felony, leading to a $10,000 fine and/or a 30-year sentence

Florida Statute Title XLVI § 794.011 (2-3) provides that the imposable penalty to a person convicted of sexual depends on the perpetrator’s age and the victim’s. The following section lays down specifically each penalty: 

• § 794.011(2a). Anyone at least 18 years old who injures the sexual organs or sex of a victim younger than 12 years will be charged as a capital felon.
• § 794. 021(2b). Anyone younger than 18 who commits this offense, and injures the sex organs of a victim less than 12 years old, will be charged with a felony. This is punishable by life imprisonment or a fine of up to $15,000.
• § 794.11(3): Anyone who threatens the victim with a deadly instrument or uses physical violence (which could cause serious injuries) will face a life-threatening offense.
• § 794.011(4a). Anyone 18 or older who commits or attempts to commit an act of sexual assault on the sexual organs or victims as young as 12 but not older than 18 years old will be charged with a 1st-degree felony. This can lead to a $10,000 fine and/or a 30-year sentence.
• § 794.011(4b). Anyone 18 years old or older who commits or attempts to commit an act of sexual assault on the sexual organs or victims of 18 years old or more senior will face a 1st-degree felony charge, which can result in a $10,000 fine and/or a 30-year sentence.
• § 794.011(4c). Anyone younger than 18 who commits or attempts to commit an act of sexual assault on someone older than 12 will be charged with a first-degree felony. This can lead to a $10,000 fine and/or a 30-year sentence.

What is Sexual Abuse?

If the sex offense does not involve physical violence, the victim and the perpetrator may be subject to one of several punishments. This is as per Fla. Stat. § 794.011 (5, A-C).

What happens if I get convicted of sexual abuse?

Statute Section	Offender Age	Victim Age	Penalty
§ 791.11(5a)	18 or older	Less than 12	1st-degree felony, punishable by a $10,000 fine and/or a sentence of not more than 30 years
§ 791.011(5b)	18 or older	18	2nd-degree felony, leading to a $10,000 fine and/or a 15-year sentence
§ 791.011(5c)	Younger than 18	Older than 12	2nd-degree felony, leading to a $10,000 fine and/or a 15-year sentence

Fla. Stat. § 794.011 (5, A-C) provides the imposable penalties to a person convicted of sexual abuse:

• § 791.11(5a). Any person aged 18 or older who commits sex battery on a victim younger than 12 will be charged with a first-degree felony. This is punishable by a $10,000 fine and/or a sentence of not more than 30 years.
• § 791.011(5b). Anyone 18 or older who commits a sexual battery against an 18-year-old victim will be charged with a second-degree felony. This can lead to a $10,000 fine or a sentence of not more than 15 years in prison.
• § 791.011(5c). Anyone younger than 18 who commits sexual Battery on a victim older than 12 years will be charged with a second-degree felony. This can lead to a $10,000 fine or a sentence of not more than 15 years in prison.

What happens when there are multiple culprits in committing sexual battery?

The Florida Legislature could reclassify charges and punishments if the crime involved more than one person. The Florida Statute Title XLVI § 794.023 (2) allows the court to reclassify the crime if it can be proved (without any doubts) that more than one perpetrator participated in the sexual Battery or assault. In these cases, a 2nd-degree felony will be converted to a 1st-degree felony, and a 1st-degree felony will become a life-threatening felony.

What happens when a teacher is accused of sexual battering a student? 

Florida Statute § 800.101 states that authorities (individuals aged 18 or older) cannot engage in sexual conduct with students or initiate or encourage them to do so. A 2nd-degree felony will result in a $10,000 fine and/or a 15-year sentence.

This crime is not the same as those of teachers, as described in Fla. Stat. Title XLVI § 775.0862.

Human Trafficking for Sexual Purposes

RAINN defines human trafficking for sexual activity as a range of sex crimes that target children and adults.

Florida Statute Title XLVI § 787.06 defines human trafficking as a form of modern slavery in which people are transported to be sold or harbored (in a similar manner as other material goods). Trafficking is when children and adults are sold into prostitution or other shady activities related to sexual activity.

• “Commercial Sexual Activity” is defined as the violation of Fla. Stat. § 796, or an attempt to do it, to sell and/or produce pornography and perform sexually explicit acts.
• “Services” could refer to the victim’s duties, such as forcing marriage or performing sexual acts upon various clients.
• “Sexually explicit performance” is a live or recorded act or show (for private or public display) designed to stimulate or sexually arouse the buyer.

The fourth chapter of § 787.06 (4) identifies four types of punishment depending on the severity and nature of the crime.

• If the perpetrator is a parent or guardian of the victim, they will be charged as a life felony and could face life imprisonment and/or a $15,000.00 fine.
• If the perpetrator brandishes the victim into traffic, the accused will be charged with a second-degree felony. This can lead to a $10,000 fine or a maximum of 15 years imprisonment.

What is victim stalking?

Florida Statute § 784.48 (3) states that anyone who actively, maliciously, and continually pursues, harasses, or cyberstalks victims will be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. This is punishable with a $1,000 fine and/or a sentence of not more than one year in prison.

As stated in Fla. Stat. § 784.048(4), anyone previously charged with stalking or sexual harassment will be charged with a third-degree felony. This is punishable with a $5,000 fine or five years in prison.

A different chapter, Fla. Stat. § 784.048(5), states that anyone who stalks or cyberstalks any child under 16 years old will be charged with aggravated stalking. This is a third-degree felony and can result in a $5,000 fine or a maximum of 5 years imprisonment.

What is cyberstalking?

Fla. Stat. § 784.049 describes cyberstalking when a victim is photographed in an unintentional or sexually explicit way by a suspect. If the victim is depicted nude, “sexually explicit images” are used.

Can I use the victim’s age as a defense in court when accused is sexual assault cases?

Florida Statute § 794.021 states that because the victim’s age directly affects the severity of the crime, the culprit cannot use this age to defend himself in court. Victims cannot protect themselves by falsely representing their age or believing they are a certain age.

How can I remove myself from the Sex Offender Registry?

The sex offender registry is maintained by the offender for the rest of their lives, as per Florida Statute § 943.0435 (11). This rule does not apply to offenses classified as sexual offenders for registration purposes if the offender is granted a pardon or has his conviction overturned in a postconviction proceeding.

As per Florida Statute § 943.0435 (11)(a), certain offenders may be able to have their names removed and the registration requirement removed if they:

• The offender was lawfully released from confinement and supervision for 25 years.
• Has not been convicted of any misdemeanor or felony offense during that time.
• Certain crimes were committed as he did not engage adults.

Florida Sex Crime Laws, Penalties, & Legal Defenses

A person charged in Florida with a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. However, a person accused of sex crimes could feel that he or she must prove his innocence. The charges for sex crimes can be met with ridicule and public scorn. When they hear the charges, some people might think the accused is a pervert or a predator. It is difficult to change the public perception of someone charged with sex crimes, let alone convicted.

A person accused of a Florida sex offense is not subject to the public perception that they are guilty. However, an attorney can help defend their rights and fight for justice. A person charged in Florida with a sex offense is entitled to the same constitutional rights as any other person in the state.

Florida Sex Crimes Prosecution

It is challenging to investigate and prosecute sex crimes. Many accusations of criminal sexual behavior do not have any physical evidence. However, despite a lack of investigation, the state’s lawyer will still bring the case to trial. This is because there is a bias toward sexual assault victims. Instead of pursuing a thorough investigation, the police will conduct a joint inquiry to resolve the case. You run the risk of rushing to judgment, resulting in the wrong person being charged.

Delayed disclosure is one of the most common problems in sexual crime cases. Delayed disclosures are frequently a result of crimes where the victim and the perpetrator are both known, but this is not always the case. A delayed disclosure will occur when the victim cannot tell someone what happened. Particularly in cases of child sexual abuse, prosecutors will seek to hire an expert to discuss why delayed disclosures are standard but not indicative of fabrication.

Prosecutors often believe that the victim of a sexual offense is always telling the truth. This is false. Crime victims are flawed human beings that harbor grudges, have faulty memories, are susceptible to suggestions, and may even believe they are guilty of stealing. They must be cross-examined. The person charged with sex crimes should conduct a thorough factual investigation before going to trial. This will allow their lawyer to prepare an effective cross-examination for all witnesses. False allegations of sexual abuse can also lead to a person’s loss of life at home, work, and community. A person’s reputation might not be restored fully even if they are acquitted. Inflicting sexual offenses on someone else can not only destroy their reputation but also compromise the integrity of those who were the victims.

Undercover Sting Operations

Florida law enforcement officers have earned a reputation by using undercover agents to penetrate prostitution rings, human trafficking operations, and street-level sexual behavior. Undercover stings by zealous officers have infiltrated prostitution rings, human trafficking operations, and street-level sexual behavior.

There are many ways to sting someone. Officers can pose as children to talk to people online. To conduct a “john sting,” female police officers could dress up as prostitutes. Officers could also post fake ads on websites like Backpage, Craigslist, Tryst.link, or YesBackpage to attract a “john” to seduce him and distribute pornographic imagery to children or solicit a prostitute.

Entrapment is one of the defenses that can be used against someone accused of a sexually-motivated crime. Florida Statutes § 777.201 lists elements of entrapment. When a police officer violates the accused’s due process rights, entrapment is an affirmative defense that the accused can use. If a police officer induces or persuades an accused to commit a crime, it is called “entrapment.” The methods used by the police to overcome the will of the accused are such that there is a substantial chance that someone innocent would do the same. The question is, in other words, whether the accused was “predisposed” or not to commit the crime.

A person accused of a crime must prove that they committed the crime. If the defendant is burdened with confirming that the police entrapped them, the judge or jury is responsible for deciding the matter.

A statutory withdrawal defense is available to the person accused of the sex offense of solicitation. Also known as the affirmative defense against renunciation, it allows them to withdraw from the criminal enterprise. Florida Statute § 777.04(5) (a-c) defines the elements of withdrawal the accused must demonstrate to prove that they started entirely from the criminal enterprise. The accused must withdraw completely from unlawful solicitation to be able to withhold from them successfully.

1. Prevented or abetted the crime;
2. The accused was persuaded to join the criminal enterprise and to leave the criminal intent;
3. As agreed, co-conspirators stopped committing the crime.

What is Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)?

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) maintains a database called Combined DNA Index System, also known as CODIS. CODIS contains the DNA profiles of convicted offenders and unknown biological profiles of suspected offenders gathered from crime scenes. To identify a “match,” law enforcement agencies can upload anonymous profiles to CODIS and compare them to the database.

Without confirmation, CODIS “hits” are not admissible in court. However, they can alert the police to the suspect’s identity. To be admissible in court, crime scene analysts must obtain a sample of the suspect from CODIS.

CODIS is a potent law enforcement tool. Jurors find DNA evidence persuasive. The jury could find DNA evidence conclusive despite jury instructions to the contrary. But scientific evidence isn’t always reliable. Scientists are not perfect. Analysts can make errors and even fabricate results. Anybody facing allegations of a sex crime in Florida should carefully examine the evidence and seek every defense possible to avoid a wrongful conviction.

Penalties for Sex Crime Convictions

Fla .Stat. § 775.082 lists the possible sentences for Florida crimes. The charges against which the accused has been convicted will determine whether they are a capital felony or a life felony.

Sex crimes such as soliciting a prostitute are misdemeanors that can only be punished with a one-year sentence. Depending on their criminal history, the offender may also be eligible for diversion programs. A person convicted of any other crime of sexual violence, or underage victims that cause grievous bodily harm, could face death or life imprisonment without parole for committing capital felonies. Others can result in a sentence up to life, with the possibility of parole or a term of years.

In addition to the sentence, the offender will likely be eligible for probation.

Collateral Consequences

Register as a Sex Offender/Sex Predator

Many Florida sex crimes will lead to the conviction of sexual predatory or sex offender registration with the sheriff in their county. A person’s duty to register is independent of any prison sentence or probationary term imposed by the court. The judge can, however, make a written determination that the defendant is a predator of sexuality and order reporting.

Florida Statute § 943.435 requires that a person convicted of certain crimes register as a sexual offender. This section includes pleas of guilty and nolo contendre.

Florida Statutes § 775.21 are the Florida Sexual Predators Act. This law is a comprehensive piece that aims to prevent sexual predators from committing further acts of violence. The statute may require registration. It could also mean that internet connections can be forfeited. The statute also requires that the sheriff’s department with which the offender is registered publish information to the public regarding the offender.

Residency Restrictions

Florida Statute § 775.215 restricts a convicted sex offender’s ability to live in certain areas. This section requires that a person lives within 1,000 feet of a school, park, or daycare.

What to do if I am charged with sex crimes in Florida?

Criminal charges for sex crimes could cause life-changing consequences for you and your family members. The penalties will depend on how severe the charges are.

It is possible to lose custody of your children, risk losing your job and have a criminal conviction on your record, which cannot be sealed.

This is why you should have an experienced lawyer by your side to provide you with the most effective legal defense. Leppard Law Criminal Defense Attorneys are dedicated to helping you. We analyze each situation and look at all the possible legal options to identify the most efficient way to proceed. With a strategy in place, our Attorneys will work with you to push for the best legal result.

Although these circumstances can feel isolating, many were in the same situation, and our attorneys have helped them get through with a positive outcome. As evidenced by our plethora of reviews on the internet, we are dedicated to our client’s safety and satisfaction, and we have fulfilled their specific objectives time and time again.

FAQs

What is the penalty for sex crimes in Florida?

The penalties for sex crimes in Florida can vary widely depending on the nature and severity of the crime committed. They typically include imprisonment, fines, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and other severe consequences. In the most severe cases, such as sexual battery or child molestation, the perpetrator could face life imprisonment.

Is Florida tough on sex offenders?

Yes, Florida has stringent laws concerning sex crimes. Offenders can expect harsh penalties, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and lifelong registration as a sex offender. These strict laws are enforced to protect residents and deter potential offenders.

Do sex offenders get gain time in Florida?

Under Florida law, certain sex offenders are not eligible for gain time, which is a reduction in sentence for good behavior while incarcerated. This primarily includes those convicted of capital, life, or first-degree felonies involving sexual offenses.

What are the types of sex crimes recognized by the state of Florida?

Florida recognizes various sex crimes, including sexual assault, sexual battery, lewd and lascivious behavior, child molestation, prostitution, possession of child pornography, and sexual cyber harassment, among others.

How can I find an experienced sex crimes defense attorney in Orlando, Florida?

Leppard Law: Florida DUI Lawyers & Criminal Defense Attorneys PLLC is a highly recommended law firm in Orlando, Florida. Our legal team has extensive experience and proven results in defending clients against sex crime charges.

How does the registration process work for sex offenders in Florida?

Florida requires convicted sex offenders to register with local law enforcement within 48 hours of establishing residence in the state. This registration must be updated annually, but also within 48 hours of any change in address, vehicle, or employment status.

What are the possible defenses against sex crimes charges in Florida?

Defenses to sex crimes charges can include lack of evidence, mistaken identity, false accusation, consent, or alibi, among others. An experienced defense attorney can help identify and build the most robust possible defense strategy based on the specific circumstances of your case.

How does Florida define consent in sex crime cases?

Under Florida law, consent is defined as intelligent, knowing, and voluntary agreement and does not include coerced submission. Consent cannot be given by someone who is underage, mentally incapacitated, or physically helpless.

What is the statute of limitations for sex crimes in Florida?

The statute of limitations for sex crimes in Florida can vary, with some crimes like sexual battery having no statute of limitations under certain circumstances. However, generally, the limit is within three years for a first-degree misdemeanor and within two years for a second-degree misdemeanor.

Can a minor be charged with a sex crime in Florida?

Yes, a minor can be charged with a sex crime in Florida. However, the state’s juvenile justice system typically handles these cases, and the legal process can differ significantly from adult courts.

How can digital evidence be used in a sex crimes defense case in Orlando, Florida?

Digital evidence such as text messages, emails, social media interactions, and other electronic records can be crucial in a sex crimes defense case. They can help establish a timeline, prove consent, or disprove the accuser’s claims.

What are the potential consequences of a sex crime conviction in Florida?

A sex crime conviction in Florida carries severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. It can also have lasting impacts on your reputation, career, housing prospects, and family relationships.

How does Florida law handle false accusations of sex crimes?

If someone is falsely accused of a sex crime in Florida, a skilled defense attorney can help defend their rights and reputation. If it is proven that the accusations were false, the accuser could face legal consequences for perjury or filing a false police report.

How does a plea bargain work in sex crime cases in Florida?

A plea bargain is an agreement between the defendant and the prosecution where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence. In sex crime cases, plea bargaining can sometimes be a strategic move, but it’s essential to discuss this option with your attorney thoroughly.

Can an alleged victim retract their accusation in a sex crimes case?

Yes, an alleged victim can retract their accusation. However, it does not automatically lead to the case being dropped. Prosecutors may continue with the case if they believe there is sufficient evidence to prove the crime occurred.

What role does a private investigator play in a sex crimes defense case?

A private investigator can play a crucial role in a sex crimes defense case by gathering evidence, locating witnesses, and building a robust defense strategy. They can help uncover information that may prove your innocence or discredit the prosecution’s evidence.

What are the potential effects of a sex crime charge on my professional and personal life?

A sex crime charge can have severe effects on your professional and personal life. Professionally, you may lose your job or find it challenging to secure future employment. Personally, the charge can strain relationships and result in social stigma.

Are there any diversion programs or alternative sentencing options available for sex crimes defendants in Florida?

While Florida does offer diversion programs and alternative sentencing for some offenses, these options are typically not available for serious sex crimes. Each case is unique, so consult with your attorney about potential options.

How can past convictions influence the sentencing in a sex crimes case?

Previous convictions, particularly for similar offenses, can result in harsher sentences in a sex crime case. Under Florida’s habitual felony offender laws, repeat offenders can face significantly enhanced penalties.

What are my rights during an investigation or trial for a sex crime?

You have several critical rights during an investigation or trial, including the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, the right to a fair and speedy trial, and the right to confront witnesses against you.

How does the state of Florida handle cases involving sex trafficking?

Sex trafficking is a serious crime in Florida, carrying severe penalties. The state’s approach involves stringent prosecution of offenders, as well as protective measures and support for victims.

What’s the difference between state and federal sex crime charges?

The main difference lies in jurisdiction and severity of potential penalties. Federal sex crimes often involve crossing state lines or using interstate facilities and usually carry harsher penalties than state charges.

Can character references be used as part of a sex crimes defense strategy in Florida?

Yes, character references can be used in defense strategy. They can help portray the defendant in a positive light, indicating that the alleged behavior is out of character. However, the use of character references should be carefully considered with your attorney.

Lawyers for sex crimes within Orlando, FL

Leppard Law Criminal Defense Attorneys understands that these charges can devastate your life and future. You have everything at stake and deserve the best representation. Let us advocate aggressively for you! Our defense lawyers are determined to avoid a conviction in each case. We are battle-trained fighters who know how to investigate your arrest and the state’s evidence. We might be able to reveal mistakes that occurred during the search or arrest. In many instances, we can reduce the charges or obtain a dismissal.

The criminal defense lawyers of Leppard Law Criminal Defense Lawyers represent clients accused of sexually motivated crimes across the Middle District of Florida. Our offices are in downtown Orlando, located just a few minutes from the Middle District of Florida federal courthouse and the state courthouse. 

Contact us at (407) 476-4111 to arrange a free case consultation. Let experienced sex crimes defense attorneys in Orlando assist you.