Fort Myers Sex Crimes Defense Lawyers
Although some crimes are punished with longer prison sentences or heftier fines, sex crime convictions can follow a person around forever, years and decades after they have served their time. Some people convicted of sex crimes find themselves stuck on a sex offender registry they can never get off of, and others find themselves subject to an involuntary and indefinite civil commitment. If you are facing sex crime charges in Florida, even if you think the charges have no basis and can be easily disproven, getting skilled and experienced legal representation is essential to protecting your rights and securing the best outcome available.
Led by former criminal prosecutors and seasoned defense attorneys, Foley & Wilson Law Firm is committed to providing the highest level of professional representation while treating clients with the utmost dignity and respect. If you’ve been charged with a sex offense in southwest Florida, contact our experienced Fort Myers sex crimes defense lawyers for immediate assistance.
Child Pornography (Florida Statutes 847.001, 847.0135, 847.0138, and 827.071)
Child pornography offenses in Florida are taken extremely seriously, but as with all criminal charges, prosecutors bear the burden of proving every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. To secure a conviction of child pornography, the prosecution must prove that an individual knowingly possessed, produced, or distributed explicit materials involving minors. Child pornography offenses can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with varying degrees of severity depending on factors such as the age of the minor involved.
Indecent Exposure (Florida Statutes 800.03 and 800.04)
Indecent exposure involves willfully exposing one’s sexual organs in a public place or within the presence of others. This offense is typically classified as a misdemeanor, but repeated offenses or exposure in the presence of a minor can lead to felony charges.
Lewd and Lascivious Molestation (Florida Statutes 800.04)
Lewd and lascivious molestation, often referred to as child molestation, involves engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with a minor under the age of 16. This crime is a felony, and the severity of charges may vary based on the age of the victim and other factors.
Sexual Battery (Florida Statutes 794.011)
Sexual battery, commonly known as rape, is a serious felony offense. It occurs when an individual engages in non-consensual sexual activity with another person. Penalties for sexual battery convictions can range from lengthy prison sentences to life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances.
Solicitation of Prostitution (Florida Statutes 796.07)
While solicitation of prostitution may not be a sex crime in the traditional sense, it is still a criminal offense in Florida. Individuals who solicit sexual services for payment can face misdemeanor charges, reputational damage, and be saddled with an embarrassing and debilitating criminal record.
Statutory Rape (Florida Statutes 794.05)
Statutory rape involves engaging in sexual activity with a minor who is below the age of consent, even if the minor appears willing. Charges for statutory rape vary based on the ages of the individuals involved and can range from misdemeanor to felony.
Traveling to Meet a Minor (Florida Statutes 847.0135)
Traveling to meet a minor with the intent to engage in sexual activity is a serious offense. This crime is typically classified as a felony, and penalties can be severe.
Defenses to Sex Crimes in Fort Myers
Defending against sex crime allegations requires a skilled legal approach. Common defenses include:
- Consent: Demonstrating that the sexual activity was consensual and involved parties of legal age.
- False Accusations: Proving that the accusations are untrue or made with malicious intent.
- Lack of Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove the elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Mistaken Identity: Establishing that the defendant was not the perpetrator.
- Statute of Limitations: Asserting that the charges were filed beyond the applicable statute of limitations.
Sex Offender Registration in Florida
Individuals convicted of certain sex crimes in Florida may be required to register as sex offenders under Florida Statutes 775.21 and 943.0435. The consequences of registration mean that your name, address and a picture of you are posted on a public database searchable by name or neighborhood. The registry gives people the ability to print out flyers with your information on them and post them in the area or go door-to-door and give them to your neighbors. Registration is for life and requires regular reporting to the sheriff and within 48 hours of any address change.
Failing to register as a sex offender is a separate criminal offense and can result in additional penalties, including imprisonment.
Conviction for offenses involving physical violence or a minor or as a repeat sexual offender can also result in an involuntary civil commitment under the Florida Sexual Predators Act, where you are committed to a mental facility indefinitely. With a sex crime arrest, your entire future is at stake, and charges should never be taken lightly.
Contact Foley & Wilson Law Firm for Robust Sex Crime Defense in Fort Myers
At Foley & Wilson Law Firm, we understand the gravity of sex crime allegations and are committed to providing the highest level of defense, treating you with professionalism, dignity and respect. Our experienced legal team will work tirelessly to protect your rights, reputation, and future. If you or a loved one is facing sex crime charges in Fort Myers, Florida, contact us immediately for a confidential consultation. Your defense begins here.
