Melbourne Sex Crimes Attorneys

Experienced Defense Against Sex Crimes in Brevard County

Sex crimes are among the most serious criminal charges with far-reaching and lasting consequences for convictions. Even the accusation of a sex crime creates a stigma that can ruin someone’s life, reputation, and career. For this reason, you should immediately contact an experienced attorney when accused of a sex crime. The Melbourne sex crimes lawyers at Funk, Szachacz & Diamond represent clients facing criminal charges for sex crimes.

Types of Sex Crimes in Florida

A wide variety of acts are classified as sex crimes in Florida. Possession of child pornography, lewd and lascivious behavior, and unlawful sex with minors, statutory rape, sexual battery, and rape are some of the most common criminal charges.

Are Sexual Battery and Rape Considered the Same Thing?

Yes, the term Sexual battery is used to describe both forcible rape and statutory rape (sexual relations with a minor). This includes oral, anal or vaginal penetration by, or union with, the sex organ of another, or the anal or vaginal penetration by any other object.

Depending on the circumstances, sexual battery can be a capital felony, life felony or a first or second degree felony. Anyone soliciting another to engage in an act that would constitute sexual battery is guilty of a third degree felony.

What is Lewd and Lascivious Conduct?

There are varying degrees of this crime and various acts which constitute a violation of Florida law as it relates to sex with minors.

In general, the age of the victim and to a degree the age of the defendant effect the seriousness of the charge and penalties. All can carry a significant prison sentence as well as designation as a sexual predator or sexual offender. Jimmy Rice Act ramifications can also apply.

What are the Penalties for Sex Crimes in Florida?

Conviction of sex crimes carries harsh penalties. The specific penalty depends on the charges, the age of the victim, and other unique factors of the situation. Generally, the more severe the crime, the longer the prison term. The age of the victim and whether the person is a first time offender can also factor into the punishment in a specific case.

A conviction carries penalties that include:

• Mandatory Incarceration – All felony sex crimes carry mandatory prison sentences. The length of the sentence depends on the specific charges and other factors.

• Strict Sex Offender Probation – People convicted of felony sex offenses are placed on this probation. This requires mandatory counseling for sex offenders, imposes a curfew, and restricts where you can live and work.

• Sex Offender Registration – Sex offender registration is required in Florida and throughout the United States. Residency information must be updated every three to six months for the rest of the person’s life.

• Post-Release Civil Commitment – The State Attorney can seek to have a sex offender committed to a civil facility after release from prison. This keeps the person locked up after completion of the prison sentence.

Although penalties vary depending on the crime, all carry the possibility of lengthy prison sentences and the conviction will follow you long after you are released. All three of our board certified Melbourne sex crimes attorneys work together on every case to build a solid defense strategy and protect the rights and interests of our clients.