If you’ve been arrested for a sexual offense, do not wait any longer to retain defense. You need our seasoned legal team to better prevent you from losing your time, freedom and money to an alleged sexual criminal offense. With so much at stake, you should entrust our knowledge, resources, and fortitude to work around the clock to protect your reputation and rights.
Sexual offenses are aggressively prosecuted in Florida, and many convicted defendants face multiple years behind bars. Sexual crimes are taken so seriously in Florida that, in some cases, convicted offenders have been sentenced to life in prison. With former prosecutorial experience, our trial attorneys at McLaughlin Morris Law can provide high-quality legal representation during your time of need. Attorneys Drew McLaughlin and Jeff Morris are dedicated to aggressively defending your case.
Accused of committing a sex crime? Schedule your free consultation with us online or by calling (561) 404-0529!
Understanding Sexual Offenses Under Florida Law
Sexual offenses are penalized depending on the details surrounding the incident. Below is a list of commonly committed sex crimes in South Florida:
- Sexual Battery: Commonly referred to as rape, this involves the penetration of the sexual organs (oral, anal, or vaginal) of a person without their consent. Sexual battery is usually charged as a first degree or life felony.
- Statutory Rape: An individual can be charged with this offense if they are at least 24 years old, and they participate in sexual activity or penetrate any sexual organ of a minor who is 16 or 17 years old. Illegal sexual activity with a minor is a second-degree felony.
- Indecent Exposure: An offender can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor if they expose their sexual organs in public.
- Lewd and Lascivious Conduct: It is against the law for an individual to engage in indecent/sexually charged behavior in public. This offense is considered a second-degree misdemeanor.
Consequences of Sex Crime Convictions in Florida
Several factors influence the penalties you may face if convicted of a sex crime. Some of these factors include the age of the alleged victim, whether or not the victim suffered substantial injuries, and your criminal history. Your penalties may include:
- Second-degree misdemeanor: Jail sentence of up to 60 days and/or a fine of up to $500.
- First-degree misdemeanor: Jail sentence of up to 1 year and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
- Third-degree felony: Prison sentence of up to 5 years and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
- Second-degree felony: Prison sentence of up to 15 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000
- First-degree felony: Prison sentence of up to 30 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
- Life felony: Prison sentence of 30 years to life and/or a fine of up to $15,000.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your alleged offense, our Delray Beach sex crime attorneys at McLaughlin Morris Law may be able to identify alleviating factors that could reduce your potential penalties or dismiss them altogether.
Get in Touch with Our Delray Beach Sex Crime Lawyers
Consult with our knowledgeable Delray Beach sex crime attorneys who are well-versed in Florida’s sexual offense laws. By doing so, you will not only understand how we can help you, but you’ll learn about the unique advantages we have over other law firms. Don’t gamble your freedom; protect it by hiring us to advocate for your best interests.
If you are facing charges for a sex crime, make an appointment for your free consultation online or by calling (561) 404-0529 now!
