There are several types of crimes that can be classified as sex offenses. In the State of Florida these offenses are defined as illicit sexual intercourse, sexual contact, or prohibited behavior with the intention of obtaining sexual gratification without force or threat of force, where the victim is not capable of giving consent. The designation given after found guilty would vary depending on the severity of the crime. Being charged with a sexual offense in the state of Florida is an extremely serious setback.
If you or a loved one are being charged with a sexual offense in Tampa, FL, Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, or the surrounding areas, you need to contact us right away. Our Criminal Defense Attorneys have over 20 years of experience successfully litigating sex crime cases in the state of Florida. We offer free consultations and are open 24/7. We will work with you, listen to your side of the story, and craft a defense strategy suited to your specific situation to help you get the best outcome possible. Give us a call today.
What are the Types of Sex Offenses?
Sexual Battery: Where the person being accused had penetration or oral contact with the victim or engaged in any sexual act with a minor. It also includes solicitation of sexual acts with a minor.
Aggravated Sexual Battery: The same description above, but a deadly weapon was also involved, or the victim was threatened into sexual activity.
Statutory Rape: When sexual acts are committed with a minor who is 12 or younger. Sexual Battery is also an automatic charge in these situations.
Lewd and Lascivious Acts: This includes indecent exposure, molestation, exhibition over digital devices, etc.
Prostitution & Solicitation: Any type of prostitution or solicitation, the charges could be worsen if such acts involve a person who is underage.
Child Pornography: Possession of child pornography of any type.
Conviction
If found guilty of a sexual crime depending on the severity of the situation you may be given the status of sexual offender or sexual predator and be added to the State of Florida database in addition to the sentence for the crime committed. This designation is not a punishment or a part of the sentence, it is simply a status that resulted from the conviction. This status comes with strict rules and restrictions that must be followed to avoid another charge.
Who is Considered a Sexual Offender?
Someone designated as a sex offender in the State of Florida has been convicted of conducting lewd and Lucious acts with a minor, child pornography, sexual performance with a minor, or child prostitution.
Who is Considered a Sexual Predator?
Individuals designated as sexual predators in the State of Florida are repeat sexual offenders, these subjects have used physical violence to commit their crimes, and/or prey on children. Basically, individuals who have been convicted of a first-degree felony related to sexual misconduct or convicted of two second-degree felonies related to sexual misconduct. These individuals pose a big thread to society. This designation is not a sentence or punishment, it is simply the status given to an offender after being convicted of certain crimes.
What are the Sex Crime Penalties in the State of Florida?
Second Degree Misdemeanor:
- Jail sentence of up to 60 days
- Fine of up to $500
First Degree Misdemeanor:
- Jail sentence of up to one year
- Fine of up to $1000
Third Degree Felony:
- Jail sentence of up to 5 years
- Fine up to $5,000
Second Degree Felony:
- Jail sentence of up to 15 years
- Fine of up to $10,000
First Degree Felony:
- Jail sentence of up to 30 years
- Fine of up to $10,000
Our criminal defense attorneys have over 20 years of combined experience serving the Tampa area, Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, and other adjacent areas. We have successfully litigated hundreds of sex-related offenses and are ready to hear out your side of the story. Call us today for your free consultation, we will work with you to gather all the facts and details of the case, so we can craft a superb defense strategy suited for your situation.
We also have offices in Orlando, Lakeland, Ocala, Kissimmee, Jacksonville, Sanford, Melbourne and Daytona Beach.
Here are some legal resources in the Tampa Bay area to help you navigate your legal situation.