St. Johns County Sex Crime Attorneys

Protecting Your Rights and Fighting for Justice

St. Johns County sex crime attorneys are dedicated to defending individuals facing serious allegations and ensuring their rights are protected throughout the legal process. With a deep understanding of the complexities of sex crime cases, our experienced defense lawyers work tirelessly to provide aggressive representation and fight for the best possible outcome for our clients. If you or a loved one is facing sex crime charges, contact Shoemaker Law today at 904-736-3387 to schedule a consultation.

What Are the Common Types of Sex Crimes in Florida?

Understanding the different types of sex crimes in Florida is essential for anyone facing such charges. Florida law categorizes sex crimes into various offenses, each with its own legal definitions and penalties. Some of the most common types include:

Sexual Battery

Often referred to as rape, sexual battery involves non-consensual sexual contact. Florida law defines this offense based on the use of force, coercion, or incapacitation of the victim. Penalties can vary depending on factors such as the age of the victim and the presence of any aggravating circumstances.

Lewd or Lascivious Acts

These offenses typically involve inappropriate sexual conduct with minors. Florida law distinguishes between lewd or lascivious battery, molestation, conduct, and exhibition, each carrying different penalties based on the nature of the act and the ages of the individuals involved.

Possession of Child Pornography

This crime involves the possession, distribution, or creation of explicit material depicting minors. Florida imposes strict penalties for these offenses, including mandatory minimum sentences and sex offender registration.

Solicitation and Prostitution

Solicitation involves offering or agreeing to engage in sexual acts for money or other benefits. While often considered a misdemeanor, solicitation can carry severe consequences, especially if it involves minors or occurs in certain locations.

Sexual Cyber Harassment

With the rise of digital communication, Florida has enacted laws to address crimes involving the non-consensual distribution of sexually explicit images. This offense, often referred to as “revenge porn,” can result in criminal charges and civil penalties.

Each of these offenses requires a nuanced understanding of Florida law and the potential defenses available. An experienced attorney can help you navigate these complexities and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.

What Should I Do if I Am Accused of a Sex Crime?

Being accused of a sex crime can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. It is essential to take immediate and appropriate steps to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

Remain Calm and Composed

While it is natural to feel anxious or upset, it is crucial to remain calm and composed. Avoid making any statements or decisions that could negatively impact your case.

Do Not Speak to Law Enforcement Without an Attorney

You have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. Exercise these rights by refraining from speaking to law enforcement officers without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it is vital to have legal representation before engaging in any discussions.

Gather Evidence and Documentation

Begin collecting any evidence or documentation that may be relevant to your case. This could include text messages, emails, social media interactions, or any other communication that may support your defense. Share this information with your attorney to help them build a comprehensive criminal defense strategy.

Avoid Contact with the Accuser

It is generally advisable to avoid any contact with the person accusing you of the crime. This can prevent further complications and ensure that you do not inadvertently say or do anything that could be used against you.

Consult with an Experienced Attorney

As soon as possible, seek the counsel of an experienced sex crime attorney in St. Johns County. They can provide guidance on the legal process, help you understand your rights, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your case.

Taking these steps can help you protect your rights and position yourself for the best possible outcome in your case.

What Are the Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction in Florida?

A conviction for a sex crime in Florida can have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the immediate penalties imposed by the court. Understanding these potential outcomes is crucial for anyone facing such charges.

Legal Penalties

Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, legal penalties can include imprisonment, fines, probation, and mandatory participation in rehabilitation programs. Some offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences, leaving little room for judicial discretion.

Sex Offender Registration

One of the most significant consequences of a sex crime conviction is the requirement to register as a sex offender. This registration is public and can severely impact your personal and professional reputation. It may limit where you can live, work, and travel, and it often involves regular check-ins with law enforcement.

Employment Challenges

A criminal record, especially one involving a sex crime, can make it difficult to find employment. Many employers conduct background checks, and a conviction can lead to disqualification from certain jobs, particularly those involving children or vulnerable populations.

Social Stigma

Beyond the legal and professional consequences, a sex crime conviction carries a significant social stigma. This can affect personal relationships, community standing, and overall quality of life. The public nature of sexual offender registries can exacerbate these challenges, leading to isolation and discrimination.

Loss of Rights

Sometimes, being convicted may lead to losing specific civil rights, including the ability to vote, possess firearms, or serve in public office. These losses can have long-term implications for your civic engagement and personal freedoms.

Given these potential consequences, it is essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible if you are facing sex crime or sexual abuse charges. An experienced attorney can help you understand the stakes and work towards minimizing the impact of a conviction.

How Does Florida Law Define Consent in Sex Crime Cases?

Consent is a critical element in many sex crime cases, and understanding how Florida law defines and interprets consent is essential for both the accused and the accuser.

In Florida, consent is defined as a conscious, informed, and voluntary agreement to engage in a specific sexual act. It should be provided willingly and can be revoked at any moment.

Several factors can impact the determination of consent, including:

Age

Florida law recognizes that minors cannot legally give consent to sexual activity. The age of consent in Florida is 18, although there are certain exceptions for individuals close in age.

Incapacity

Consent cannot be given if an individual is incapacitated due to drugs, alcohol, or a mental or physical condition. This includes situations where the individual is unconscious or otherwise unable to communicate their willingness to participate.

Coercion or Force

Consent obtained through coercion, threats, or force is not considered valid. This includes scenarios where a person feels pressured to participate in sexual acts because of the threat of harm or other adverse outcomes.

Authority or Influence

In cases where one party holds a position of authority or influence over the other, such as a teacher-student or employer-employee relationship, consent may be scrutinized more closely to ensure it was not obtained through undue pressure or manipulation.

Understanding these subtleties is essential for anyone engaged in a case involving a sex crime. An experienced attorney can help clarify how consent applies to your specific situation and develop a defense strategy that addresses this critical element.

How Can a St. Johns County Sex Crime Attorney Help Me?

When facing charges related to sex crimes in St. Johns County, Florida, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is crucial. These accusations may result in harsh consequences, such as extended imprisonment, substantial monetary penalties, and obligatory registration as a sex offender. A skilled lawyer can offer crucial support in maneuvering through the intricate legal framework, safeguarding your rights every step of the way.

Why Shoemaker Law is the Right Choice for Your Defense

At Shoemaker Law, we understand that facing sex crime charges is an overwhelming and deeply personal experience. Our team combines legal skill with compassionate representation, ensuring your case is handled with the utmost discretion and care. We have a proven track record of achieving successful outcomes for clients in St. Johns County, including reductions in charges, favorable plea agreements, and outright dismissals.

What sets Shoemaker Law apart is our commitment to personalized defense strategies. We take the time to understand every detail of your case, leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to protect your rights and secure your future. With extensive knowledge of Florida’s sex crime statutes and courtroom procedures, our St. Johns County sex crime lawyers are prepared to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and advocate tirelessly on your behalf.

If you or a loved one is facing sex crime charges, don’t wait. Call Shoemaker Law today at 904-736-3387 for a free consultation. Let us provide the strong and effective defense you deserve.