A sex crime conviction is the last thing you want to deal with for the rest of your life. A criminal record of this nature can become a major obstacle in your career, your personal life and your reputation in the community. Jail time, costly fines and penalties are a real possibility. You may be listed on a sex offender registry and prevented from living or working wherever you wish for years to come if you are convicted of any of the following criminal offenses (or other sex crimes) and live in Florida:
- Luring or enticing a child
- Human trafficking
- Sexual battery
- Unlawful sexual activity with a minor
- Recruiting a minor for prostitution
- Lewd or lascivious behavior upon or in the presence of a child younger than 16 years old, an elderly person or a disabled adult
- Computer pornography possession, transmission or manufacture
- Sexual misconduct
- Rape
- Statutory rape
When Should You Consult an Attorney?
You may not have been arrested yet, but if you have cause to suspect that you might be accused of any such crime, your best criminal defense is an early, smart defense. You have the right to speak with a lawyer at any stage of your case, including:
- Rumors
- Pre-investigation
- Investigation underway
- Post-arrest
- Post-conviction, if you need an appellate lawyer
Gainesville Sex Crimes Lawyers
With Avera & Smith on your side, you can count on an astute, detailed and aggressive approach to your defense. We may look into the credibility of the complaining witness. We can also look for possible misidentification issues or questions of intent. The unique facts of your case will help determine our recommended approach, but the goal will be the same no matter what: the most favorable outcome attainable.
If you are a college student, or perhaps a student athlete, rest assured that we understand your special concerns and challenges. Our experience has prepared us to help prevent or mitigate the worst consequences of a sex crime charge whenever possible. We can speak on your behalf if your legal problems come to the attention of an athletic coach, for example.
If you or someone you know is facing criminal sex offense charges in Florida, consult with a criminal defense attorney at Avera & Smith as soon as possible. Attorney-client communications are confidential.
Stalking
Stalking is defined in Florida Statute section 784.048 and is not easily summarized because there are many ways in which someone can be accused of stalking. The simplest example (which does not cover all possible acts that could legally constitute stalking) is any series of contacts by one person to another through any means (including electronic posts) that can cause substantial emotional distress and serve no legitimate purpose.
The most common cases involve relationship breakups where one party refuses to stop contacting the other after they have been asked to stop. Simple stalking cases are first-degree misdemeanors punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Depending on what is said and whether it constitutes a credible threat, if the stalking continues after an injunction has been granted or involves a victim under the age of 16, it can be charged as a third-degree felony with a maximum of five years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine. In addition, the court can issue a no-contact order that is valid for 10 years. Once again, any violation of that no-contact order is a third-degree felony.