There are many situations that could lead to a person being charged with a sex crime. From verbal harassment, to unwanted touching, to outright assault, the law takes sex-based offenses seriously and prosecutors will not go easy on you if you are charged. You need someone in your corner who will be your partner in this important moment, as your freedom and future are at stake.
At the Law Offices of Robert David Malove, our criminal defense attorneys understand the interactions of local court procedure and state law to defend against the interactions the prosecution is alleging you made. Working with a Key West sex crimes lawyer is your best defense against severe penalties and registration as a sex offender.
Understanding Sex Crimes in Key West
Key West follows state law for regulating sex crimes, and Florida maintains some of the most rigorous sex crime statutes in the country. Sex offenses in Florida are a wide range of illicit acts that can cover things like a psychiatrist’s sexual misconduct with a client, a teacher’s sexual relationship with a student, and a person’s solicitation of prostitution, in accordance with Florida Statutes § 491.0112, Stat. § 800.101, and Stat. § 796.07. The legal definitions of “consent” outlined in Stat. § 794.011(1)(a) and “lewd behavior” per § 800.04 for purposes of understanding sex crimes are highly technical and often require an experienced attorney who values attention to detail.
What Are The Penalties for Serious Sex Crimes in Key West?
The penalties for serious sex crimes in Key West can include life in prison and a $15,000 fine for certain types of sexual battery under Stat. § 775.082 and Stat. § 775.083. Cases of sexual battery involving a weapon or use of serious force under Stat. § 794.011 are first-degree felonies carrying a potential sentence of 30 years to life in prison. Even less severe charges, like lewd battery, are typically second-degree felonies that can result in 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
In addition to prison time, a sex crime conviction almost certainly requires you to register as a sexual offender for life under Stat. §943.0435. Long after your sentence, these registration requirements will restrict you from living in specific neighborhoods and working professional jobs. Engaging the professional legal services of a qualified sex crimes lawyer in Key West can give you your best chance at a minimum sentence and sometimes depending on your circumstances, a complete dismissal of the charges against you.
Call a Key West Sex Crimes Attorney Today to Protect Your Freedoms
Regardless of the nature or circumstances of your specific allegations, a Key West sex crimes lawyer is here to listen without judgement. Working with legal counsel means having a partner and advocate throughout the lengthy legal process of your criminal proceedings. Call the Law Offices of Robert David Malove today for your free, confidential consultation.