How might registration as a sex offender impact my life?
If you have been accused of a sex offense in Florida, you are likely experiencing a wide range of emotions, from fear and confusion to anger. Being charged with any sex offense in the state of Florida can have potentially lifelong consequences. Sex offense convictions can result in serious prison time, hefty fines, a felony criminal record, and registration as a sex offender. Having a sex offense on your record can impact nearly every aspect of your live, including your freedom of movement and your basic civil rights. Our West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyers explore the consequences of a sex offense and potential defenses you could raise against a sex offense charge below.
Sex Offense Penalties in Florida
There are several sex offense crimes in the state of Florida, ranging in severity from prostitution to rape(sexual battery) and child pornography. Any sex offense carries the potential for prison time. The crime of lewd or lascivious battery, for example, could result in a minimum sentence of seven years and a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Sexual battery or rape could result in life in prison depending on the victim’s characteristics.
Convictions for certain sex offenses, including sexual battery, prostitution, human trafficking, and much more, will require registration as a sex offender. As a sex offender, you will need to report to your local sheriff’s office and provide detailed information, such as your fingerprints, tattoos, place of employment, home address, vehicle information, and much more. You will need to complete the registration at least twice a year, or up to four times a year. You will remain on the registry for your entire life. As a sex offender, you will be listed on a public registry and you will not be permitted to live within a certain radius of a school zone.
Defense Against Sex Offense Charges
Sex offenses are serious crimes that must be vigorously defended against. While being accused of a sex offense is a difficult matter, there are many potential defenses you may be able to raise. Depending on the nature of the charges and circumstances surrounding the alleged crime, your attorney may help you to challenge the evidence, reveal an illicit motive on the part of your accuser, or uncover tainted testimony. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to get started protecting your legal rights today.