Florida Sex Offense Defense Attorney
What Are Sex Offenses?
Sex offenses include numerous types of illegal sexual activity. They include both felonies and misdemeanors and range from the very serious crime of sexual battery, commonly known as rape, to less serious crimes like prostitution, solicitation and indecent exposure. Sexual battery generally consists of unwanted physical contact or penetration with the sexual organ of another person. Sexual contact or penetration is considered unwanted if the alleged victim verbally refused it, physically resisted it, or was unable to give legal consent because of his or her age or mental state. The most serious sex offenses are those against young children and those involving physical injury. Other sex offenses include voyeurism, possession of child pornography, date rape, lewd and lascivious behavior, pimping, pandering, child molestation and statutory rape.
What To Do If You Or Someone You Know Is Accused Of Committing A Sex Offense
Being charged with or just investigated for a sex offense can be devastating, even if a conviction does not result. This is because the social stigma and professional limitations that accompany allegations of involvement in a sexual offense can permanently affect every aspect of your life, including your family, position in the community and income. For that reason, if you or someone you know is being investigated for or has been charged with a sex offense, you need the team of defense attorneys from Escobar, Michaels & Associates, an aggressive and committed law firm that is experienced in defending against sex offenses. Since 1986, the attorneys of Escobar, Michaels & Associates have successfully defended clients who have been charged with all types of sex offenses. We represent clients accused of committing sex offenses throughout Florida, including Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, Polk County, Pasco County and Manatee County.
Penalties And Other Consequences Of Being Convicted Of A Sex Offense
The penalties for a sex offense conviction can be extremely serious and have life-altering consequences. Prison is only one potential consequence. A conviction can also result in strict sex offender probation, significant fines, loss of the right to vote or own a weapon, being shunned by society and loss of parental rights. Additionally, you may be required to register as a sex offender or sexual predator for the rest of your life. Information from the sex offender registry is made public, which increases your chances of having your reputation ruined for life. Florida’s sex offender and sexual predator registration requirements are extremely complex, and failure to comply with them can result in both a violation of probation and a new felony charge, which can then lead to an additional prison sentence.
Additionally, if you are convicted of a sexual offense that is considered violent, Florida’s Jimmy Ryce law may subject you to involuntary civil commitment in an institution for an indefinite period of time after you serve any criminal sentence imposed by the court. However, many defenses are available to those who are charged with sex offenses. Contacting an attorney who is experienced in sex offense defense as soon as possible allows evidence to be evaluated and witnesses to be questioned early, providing the best opportunity for a successful defense. A successful defense is the only way to avoid the harsh penalties and other consequences that can result from a sex offense conviction. As aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorneys, we will help you obtain the best results under the particular law and facts of your case and may be able to get your charges reduced or even dismissed.
If you or someone you know has been accused of a sex offense, contact Escobar, Michaels & Associates for a free consultation to learn more about your rights and defenses.
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