Sex Crime Lawyer in Orlando, FL

Sex crime and prostitution charges have serious consequences in Florida and can have a lasting impact on every aspect of a person’s life. Under Florida law, these offenses are often met with severe penalties, which may include heavy fines, lengthy prison sentences, and, in certain cases, mandatory registration as a sex offender. Felony charges for lewd and lascivious molestation can result in life-altering sentences, including life imprisonment and a permanent criminal record. Even the allegation of involvement in a sex crime can impact your reputation, making it essential to understand your rights and seek immediate legal support. Being registered as a sex offender can severely impact your ability to secure employment, find housing, and maintain personal relationships due to the stigma associated with the registry. The sex offender registry in Florida is accessible to the public, which can lead to social ostracism and difficulties in community integration for those registered.

At The Wiseman Law Firm, we offer more than 24 years of experience defending clients facing a range of sex crime charges across Central Florida, including those involving prostitution. Led by a former prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney, we understand both sides of the courtroom, allowing us to craft a strategic, thorough defense against these challenging charges. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer is crucial to help you explore all possible legal defenses, and our firm is known for its aggressive defense approach to protect your rights against severe accusations. Our priority is protecting our clients’ futures through detailed case analysis, careful preparation, and assertive representation in court. We serve clients throughout Orlando, Maitland, Winter Park, and other Central Florida communities. If you’re dealing with a sex crime accusation, we’re here to provide the guidance and support you need.

Types of Sex Crimes We Handle at The Wiseman Law Firm

At The Wiseman Law Firm, we understand the complexities and high stakes involved in defending against sex crime charges. Many of these offenses are classified as various degree felonies under Florida law, reflecting the severity of the allegations and the potential for significant penalties. With over 1/4 of a Century of experience in criminal defense, our team handles a wide range of sex crime cases, providing dedicated, strategic representation to protect our clients’ rights and future. We recognize the importance of developing a tailored defense strategy for each type of charge, as an effective defense strategy can be crucial in achieving the best possible outcome. Some of the types of sex crimes we defend include the following:

Prostitution and Solicitation

Charges related to engaging in, or soliciting others for, prostitution carry severe penalties in Florida. We work to minimize the impact of these charges by challenging the evidence, scrutinizing police conduct, and exploring defense strategies that can lead to favorable outcomes.

Sexual Battery

Sexual battery, or non-consensual sexual contact, is one of the most serious charges in Florida, often leading to lengthy prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration. Sexual battery involves non-consensual sexual acts, including penetration with a sexual organ, and is distinct from lewd and lascivious molestation. Lewd and lascivious molestation specifically involves the intentional touching of a minor under 16 years of age in a sexual manner, while sexual battery refers to a broader range of non-consensual sexual acts, including rape, against individuals of any age. Both offenses carry severe penalties in Florida, but the specific consequences depend on the nature of the offense and the ages of the individuals involved.

We carefully investigate each case results, analyzing witness testimony and evidence to identify inconsistencies and weaknesses in the prosecution’s claims.

Sexual Assault and Rape

These serious charges carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration. Statutory rape is a felony offense involving sexual activity with minors under 16 years of age, and is closely related to other charges such as lewd or lascivious molestation. We thoroughly investigate evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and build a strong defense to protect your rights and future.

Lewd or Lascivious Offenses

Florida law strictly prohibits lewd and lascivious acts involving minors, with a range of offenses defined under Florida Statute 800.04. Lewd and lascivious molestation is specifically defined as the intentional touching, in a lewd or lascivious manner, of the breasts, genitals, genital area, buttocks, or the clothing covering those areas of a person younger than 16 years of age, or causing, encouraging, or forcing the minor to touch the perpetrator in such a manner. The law also covers related offenses such as lewd or lascivious conduct, lewd or lascivious behavior, lewd or lascivious exhibition, lascivious battery, and lascivious exhibition, all of which involve sexual activity or exposure with or in front of minors.

The terms ‘lewd’ and ‘lascivious’ are interpreted by Florida courts to mean actions committed with wicked, lustful, unchaste, licentious, or sensual intent. The prosecution must prove that the defendant intentionally touches or intentionally causes a minor to touch in a lascivious manner, and that such acts were committed with the required sensual intent.

The severity of felony charges and penalties for lewd or lascivious molestation depends on the victim’s age and the offender’s age. If an adult over 18 years of age is convicted of lewd or lascivious molestation against a child under 12 years of age, it is classified as a life felony, punishable by a prison sentence of up to life in prison. If the victim is between 12 and 16 years of age and the offender is over 18, the crime is a second degree felony, carrying up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. If the offender is under 18 and the victim is between 12 and 16 years of age, the charge is a third degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Prior convictions for such acts can result in upgraded felony charges and longer prison sentences, up to 30 years.

Florida law prohibits using the victim’s consent, the defendant’s ignorance of the child’s age, or the victim’s misrepresentation of age as defenses to lewd or lascivious molestation. The state prosecutor aggressively pursues these cases, often relying on victim testimony, and must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.

Possible defense strategies include challenging the evidence, asserting mitigating circumstances, or, in some cases, invoking the Romeo and Juliet exception, which may allow certain individuals close in age to petition for exclusion from sex offender registration requirements. Defendants may also present evidence of mitigating circumstances to seek a lesser sentence.

Individuals convicted of lewd or lascivious molestation, lewd or lascivious conduct, or related offenses are required to register as sex offenders for life, including periodic reporting to the local sheriff’s office.

These charges, which can include molestation, indecent exposure, or acts of a sexual nature involving a minor, carry extremely harsh penalties. Our firm is committed to safeguarding your rights and building a defense aimed at reducing or dismissing these serious allegations.

Sexual Misconduct

We represent clients accused of various forms of sexual misconduct, including accusations of inappropriate sexual behavior or harassment. These charges often arise in sensitive contexts and can be challenging to navigate. Our team provides a compassionate, strategic approach, ensuring a thorough and respectful defense process.

Online Solicitation and Internet Sex Crimes

With the increasing use of digital communication, charges related to online solicitation or other internet-based sex crimes are becoming more common. We understand the nuances of digital evidence and work to uncover issues related to entrapment, evidence handling, and constitutional rights.

What Should You Do When Arrested for a Sex Crime in Florida?

If you have been arrested for a sex crime in Orlando, FL, it is important to take the following steps:

• Remain Silent With Law Enforcement: You have the right to remain silent and to not incriminate yourself. Use it. Do not speak to law enforcement or anyone else about your case without first consulting with a sex crime defense attorney.
• Contact an Orlando Sex Crime Defense Lawyer: Hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in sex crime cases. They will be able to advise you on your rights and can help you navigate the criminal justice system.
• Gather Evidence: Ask your attorney to help you gather any evidence that may be helpful in your defense, such as witnesses or any other physical evidence.
• Follow the Court’s Orders: Follow all court orders and conditions of release. Failure to do so can result in additional criminal charges and may jeopardize your case.
• Be aware of the potential consequences: Sex crime convictions can carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and a lifetime of social stigma.

It’s important to keep in mind that every case is different, and the best course of action will depend on the specific facts of your case. An experienced attorney will be able to advise you on the best strategy for your defense, and will fight to protect your rights and interests throughout the legal process.

Defenses to Sex Crimes in Florida

Facing sex crime charges in Florida can be daunting, but several defenses may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances of each case. The following are some common defenses we employ in sex crime cases:

• Consent: Consent may be a viable defense if evidence shows the alleged victim willingly participated. This defense requires clear proof, like messages or other forms of documented agreement.
• False Allegations: Some accusations arise from personal motives, like revenge or custody disputes. Identifying inconsistencies or motives can challenge the credibility of these claims.
• Mistaken Identity: Misidentification is possible, especially in cases based on uncertain eyewitness testimony. DNA evidence or an alibi can help prove innocence.
• Lack of Intent: Some charges require intent, and proving a lack of it can weaken or dismiss charges, especially in cases of misunderstanding or misinterpretation.
• Entrapment: In online cases, entrapment may apply if law enforcement induced the defendant to act unlawfully. This requires scrutiny of police actions.
• Insufficient Evidence: Weak or circumstantial evidence may not meet the burden of proof, allowing an attorney to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.

For lewd and lascivious molestation charges in Florida, it is important to note that the law specifically prohibits using the victim’s consent or ignorance of the victim’s age as defenses. However, individuals accused of lewd and lascivious molestation may be eligible for the Romeo and Juliet exception, which allows certain individuals to petition for exclusion from sex offender registration requirements if they meet specific criteria. Additionally, defendants can present mitigating circumstances in their cases, which may allow the court to deviate from minimum sentencing requirements if adequate evidence is provided.

Each of these defenses requires careful preparation and a strong legal strategy. At The Wiseman Law Firm, we meticulously examine every aspect of the case to identify the best possible defenses. We are committed to safeguarding our clients’ rights and building a robust defense to achieve the best outcome possible.

Protecting Your Rights With The Wiseman Law Firm

If you’re facing sex crime charges in Florida, having an experienced defense team is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome. At The Wiseman Law Firm, we offer more than 24 years of criminal defense experience, and our team is led by a former prosecutor who understands the strategies used on both sides of the courtroom. We approach each case with dedication, ensuring thorough investigation, strategic defense, and compassionate support to minimize the impact of these serious charges on your life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Crimes Charges

What should I do if the police contact me about a sex crime allegation?

Do not speak to law enforcement. Detectives are trained to elicit statements that can be used against you. Exercise your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and state clearly that you want to speak with your attorney. Contact Wiseman Trial Law immediately so we can protect your rights from the very beginning of the investigation.

Will I have to register as a sex offender if I am convicted?

In Florida, convictions for many sex-related offenses carry mandatory, lifetime registration on the Sex Offender Registry. This severely impacts where you can live, work, and travel. Because the collateral consequences are so devastating, it is critical to hire an aggressive defense attorney to fight the charges and aim for a dismissal or reduction.

Can the charges be dropped if the accuser takes back their statement?

No, an accuser cannot simply “drop the charges.” Once an arrest is made or an investigation begins, the decision to prosecute lies entirely with the State Attorney’s Office. Even if the alleged victim recants, the prosecutor may still move forward using other evidence. Your lawyer must negotiate directly with the prosecutor to get the case dismissed.

What are the penalties for a sex crime conviction in Florida?

Penalties vary widely depending on the specific charge, the age of the alleged victim, and your prior record. They often include mandatory minimum prison sentences, strict probation, steep fines, GPS monitoring, and sex offender registration. Due to the severity of these penalties, you cannot afford to face these charges alone.

Don’t face these challenging accusations alone. Contact us today to discuss your options and start building a strong defense. Call (407) 420-4647 or reach out via our contact form.