There are few things more devastating or life-altering than being charged with a crime. This is particularly true for sex crime cases. Finding a criminal attorney in Plantation that will zealously defend you against sex crime charges can significantly improve your chances of avoiding or minimizing the consequences of a conviction.

An experienced Plantation sex crimes lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, explore your available options, and aggressively pursue the most favorable result possible in your case.

What are Sex Crimes?

There are many types of offenses that can be considered sex crimes. In Florida, the vast majority of sexual offenses can be classified into three main categories – sexual battery, lewd or lascivious acts, and other sex crimes involving children or minors.

There are also crimes that are sexual in nature but do not necessarily fall under the previously mentioned categories, such as prostitution, incest, indecent exposure, or video voyeurism.

Most sex crimes are felony offenses and a conviction is not only punishable by incarceration but will also require registration as a sex offender. To best defend against such penalties, an individual should contact an experienced sex crimes attorney in Plantation as soon as possible.

How is Sexual Battery Defined?

The offense of sexual battery (rape) refers to any nonconsensual sexual activity that occurs by use of force, coercion, or incapacitation. Under Florida Statute 794.011(1)(h), sexual activity includes any “oral, anal, or vaginal penetration by, or union with, the sexual organ of another or the anal or vaginal penetration of another by any other object,” but does not include an act done for a bona fide medical purpose.

Sexual battery offenses range in severity from a second-degree felony to a capital felony, depending on the age of the victim and whether any aggravating circumstances apply. For example, the use of a deadly weapon or physical force that is likely to cause serious personal injury. No matter the severity of the crime, a Plantation sex crimes attorney can help defend against the charge.

Lewd or Lascivious Offenses

Under Florida Statute 800.04, lewd or lascivious offenses means sexual activity that was committed upon or in the presence of persons less than 16 years of age. Sexual activity is defined the same way as it is under the sexual battery statute.

The most common of these offenses include, but are not limited to:

  • Lewd or lascivious battery
  • Lewd or lascivious molestation
  • Lewd or lascivious conduct
  • Lewd or lascivious exhibition

Lewd and lascivious crimes are felony offenses of varying degrees. Consent and ignorance of the victim’s age are not valid defenses in these types of cases.

Other Sex Crimes Involving Children or Minors

In addition to lewd and lascivious offenses, there are a number of other sex crimes involving children or minors. These offenses are defined in various Florida criminal statutes, including Chapters 787, 794, 827, and 847 of Title XLVI. Some examples of these sexual offenses are:

  • Child sex trafficking
  • Unlawful sexual activity with certain minors (statutory rape)
  • Child pornography
  • Computer facilitated offenses
  • Sexual performance by a child

Benefit of an Attorney

When it comes to sex crime charges, the stakes are too high to be without experienced legal representation. This is why a Plantation sex crimes lawyer will handle each case with the sensitivity and dedication their clients deserve.

An experienced sex crimes attorney in Plantation will work tirelessly to protect your rights, freedom, and future by building a defense strategy around the unique circumstances of your case.

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