Among some of the most serious criminal accusations a person may face in Palm Beach Gardens are those involving a sex crime. A sex crime can range from the relatively minor charges of indecent exposure to the very serious accusations of sexual battery. The potential penalties that people face are often contingent upon the age of the alleged victim and whether any force or coercion was used in the alleged assault.
With the potentially life-changing effects of these allegations, it is critical that people obtain experienced representation dedicated to protecting their freedom and reputation. Palm Beach Gardens sex crimes defense lawyers work to defend individuals from the moment we are hired. Every stage of a sex crimes case, from an initial arrest to a trial, is critical.
Examples of Sex Crimes in Palm Beach Gardens
A sex crime is any crime that involves the exposure of a person to unwelcome or impermissible sexual activity. There does not need to be any actual contact; the attempt to perform these acts is just as serious as the actual act. Some prominent examples of sex crimes include:
Indecent Exposure
According to Florida Statute 800.03 it is illegal for any person to be nude in a public place, or to expose their sexual organs in a lewd manner. A violation here is a first-degree misdemeanor.
Lewd or Lascivious Battery
Under Florida Statute 800.04(4), any person who engages in any sex act with a person between the ages of 12 and 16 is guilty of a Second-Degree Felony. The concept that the alleged victim of the crime consented to the contact is not a defense.
Sexual Battery
As per Florida Statute 794.011, this is any unwelcome oral, vaginal, or anal penetration by a person’s sex organ or through the use of any object. In its basic form, this crime is a first-degree felony, but depending upon several circumstances, it may be as serious as a capital felony.
Possible Consequences for Sex Offenses
Depending upon the charges, the identity of the alleged victim, and the use of force in the alleged act, the penalties range from the minor to the harshest available by law. Some sex crimes are charged as misdemeanors. This means an offense may result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. However, most sex crimes are felonies. The lowest level felonies allow a sentence of up to five years.
However, allegations of sexual battery are always at least first-degree felonies. This means they can result in imprisonment for a maximum of 30 years. Some instances, such as the sexual battery of a child under the age of 12, are capital crimes where the prosecution may seek the death penalty. In addition, many sex crimes may require the individual to register as a sex offender. This includes charges for sexual battery, unlawful sexual activity with some minors, and transmission of child pornography. A Palm Beach Gardens sex crimes lawyer could mitigate the penalties that an individual may face.
Contacting a Palm Beach Gardens Sex Crimes Attorney
Simply facing accusations of a sex crime can forever change a person’s life. As soon as someone is arrested, the sensational nature of the accusations can damage a person’s reputation in the community and turn public opinion against them.
A Palm Beach Gardens sex crimes defense lawyer could stand up for you in court. Our goal is to provide a powerful and thorough defense while taking steps to protect the reputation of the accused. The stakes could not be higher, take a measure to protect yourself. Contact our firm today.
