The Right Attorney is Critical When Facing Sex Crimes Charges of a Sexual Nature in Florida
Have you been accused of a sex crime in Florida? If so, you need to understand the high stakes you are facing. Depending on the severity of the alleged crime, charges range from misdemeanors to felonies. More than that, however, you should know that many people will assume the worst about you based on charges alone. This makes your choice of defense attorney especially important.
In Pasco, Hernando and Sumter counties, clients regularly turn to Karatinos Law, PLLC, for skilled and aggressive defense representation. Keeley is known for her effectiveness both inside and outside the courtroom as well as for giving every client the attention and advocacy they deserve. She has helped countless others, and she can help you, too.
Common Sex Offense Charges
Generally speaking, a sexual offense is non-consensual and unlawful sexual contact or behavior motivated by the sexual gratification of the offender. There are several ways in which a crime could be considered sex-related, and the severity of the penalties associated can vary based on the nature of the offense and the type/status of the alleged victim.
Some of the most common sex offenses include:
- Sexual battery
- Indecent exposure
- Prostitution
- Lewd and lascivious
- Possession of child pornography
- Failure to register as a sex offender
The penalties associated with sex crimes can vary from a misdemeanor for prostitution or indecent exposure offenses to a felony for failing to register as a sex offender, possession of child pornography, or, more severely, sexual battery. The severity of penalties for lewd and lascivious depends on the age of the alleged victim as well as the alleged conduct of the defendant. Depending on the severity of the charge, certain sex offenses can be punishable by life in prison.
The Sex Offender Registry Can Greatly Limit Your Opportunities in Life
Being on the sex offender registry can make it difficult or impossible to find a place to live, to find or keep a job and to be a part of the community in any meaningful way. Certain sex crimes require a defendant be placed on the sex offender registry if a defendant is sentenced to the charge.
In Florida, sex offenses that qualify for sex offender registry include but are not limited to:
- Human Trafficking
- Sexual battery
- Sexual misconduct
- Kidnapping where the victim is a minor
- Unlawful sexual activity with minors
- Lewd and lascivious offenses
- Sexual performance/Child pornography
- Video voyeurism upon a child younger than 16
- False imprisonment where the victim is a minor
- Luring or Enticing a Child
- Obscenity offenses
As your lawyer, Keeley will work tirelessly to defend your rights, freedom and reputation. If it is possible to keep you off the registry, she will make every effort to do so.
Call Keeley Today
Florida laws are harsh when it comes to sex crimes. Your defense starts by contacting Karatinos Law, PLLC, for a free consultation. Just call 352-405-0537 or reach out online.