Sex Crimes

Sex crimes are among the most serious offenses in the state of Florida, carrying with them harsh penalties and lifetime registry as a sex offender. These crimes included lewd and lascivious acts, sexual battery, voyeurism, prostitution, and sex crimes involving minors. Even the mere accusation of a sex crime can follow you around forever. That is why it’s important to call an experienced Tampa sex crimes attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A. to discuss your options and schedule a free consultation.

Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction

Sex crime convictions can change your life as you know it. Not only are the punishments severe, involving years in prison, but a conviction also requires a mandatory registration as a sex offender (FL Statute 943.0435) or a sexual predator (FL Statute 775.21). This will place you on a permanent registry of sex offenders, and you will be required to update law enforcement of phone number and address changes.

Not only this, but your entire neighborhood will have access to your sex offender status and identifying information. One conviction can effectively ruin your life. However, not every arrest leads to a conviction. By contacting an aggressive Tampa sex crimes attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A., we may be able to avoid a conviction.

Penalties for Sex Crimes

The penalties for sex crimes range from probation to life in prison, depending on the charge. Lewd and lascivious exhibition and solicitation/prostitution are both generally classified as misdemeanors, punishable by fines and a maximum sentence of one year in jail. Multiple offenses can result in these charges being upgraded to felony charges. If these charges involve a minor or a child under the age of 12, they are classified as felonies. Lewd and lascivious acts such as molestation, battery, and conduct involving minors are also felonies.

Child pornography and sexual battery charges are both felonies, punishable by up to life in prison, depending on the circumstances. Sexual battery on a child under the age of 12 is a capital felony, and sexual battery with the use of serious physical force or a deadly weapon is a life felony.

What to Do if You Have Been Charged or Accused of a Sex Crime

If you have been charged or accused of a sex crime, it is important that you contact a knowledgeable Tampa sex crimes attorney as soon as you can. Do not talk to law enforcement about the charges or allegations. Always consult an attorney before you speak to anyone about the allegations. Your attorney should be looking out for your best interests and will advise you on the best course of action.. As soon as you have been accused or arrested seek the advice and representation of an attorney.

Criminal Attorney in Tampa

If you or someone you know has been accused or charged with a sex crime, call an experienced Tampa sex crimes attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A. today. Call 813-444-3912 to schedule a no charge consultation to explore all of your options.

Criminal Attorney in Sarasota

If you have been charged with a crime in Bradenton or Sarasota contact us to schedule a consultation by calling 941-893-5816.