Florida Sex Crime Charges Explained

Facing sex crime charges in Florida could leave you feeling overwhelmed, scared, and filled with questions. Accusation alone can severely impact your reputation, your employment, and your family. However, with the right information from a Florida sex crime lawyer on your side, you can challenge the accusation with confidence.

Sex Crime Charges in Florida

In 2024, reported rape cases accounted for 10.5% of all violent crimes in Florida. Additionally, there have been 31,551 arrests related to sexual assault in the Sunshine State alone over the past five years.

Due to the violent crime nature of many sex crimes, as well as the likelihood of repeat offenses, the state of Florida takes sex crime charges very seriously. Here are some examples of the charges that could be filed against you should you be accused of such a crime:

Solicitation and/or Prostitution

According to Florida Statute 796.07, it is illegal to solicit a sex worker or work in prostitution. If you are charged with first-time solicitation, it is considered a second-degree misdemeanor.

Furthermore, should you be found guilty of these charges, you could end up paying a mandatory $5,000 civil penalty, serving up to 60 days in jail, owing another $500 in fines, and being forced to serve 100 hours in community service.

Should you be charged with and convicted of additional solicitation offenses in the future, the penalties will only increase. Mitigating factors can also play a role in the severity of potential penalties, such as soliciting a minor or involvement in human trafficking.

Sexual Battery

Florida Statute 794.011 states that sexual battery is the same thing as rape. Both terms are defined as incidents where an unwanted sexual act is forced onto a nonconsenting party, resulting in penetration and/or the union of any sexual organs. This includes cases with coercion and/or intoxication.

Regardless of whether this is a first-time offense, charges typically fall into felony territory due to the severity of the crime. The law also dictates that the penalties for those found guilty should reflect said severity.

Additional Sex Crime Charges

There are several other examples of sex crimes that you can face charges for in the state of Florida, including the following:

• Failure to register as a sex offender. Should you fail to submit to the court-required process of registering as a sex offender, you could face felony charges and, if you are found guilty, prison time.
• Lewd and/or lascivious conduct. Lewdness and lascivious conduct are any situations where you are acting inappropriately around and/or with minors, which can result in felony charges and, depending on the age and variety of contact, serving a lengthy amount of time in prison if you are found guilty.
• Soliciting a child via the internet. It is a third-degree felony to solicit a child over the internet unless the child lied about their age, which can change it to a second-degree felony.

Hire a Sex Crimes Lawyer

Defending yourself from sex crime accusations in Florida begins with a sex crimes lawyer from Paul Figueroa Law. Our team understands the long-term impact these accusations can have and works diligently with our clients to meet their unique needs. At Paul Figueroa Law, you can get the guidance and resources you need to build a strong defense, protecting your rights and your future. With over a decade of experience, our team knows the intricacies of Florida laws.

Florida Sex Crimes Lawyer

Contact Paul Figueroa Law today to schedule a consultation and get the representation and guidance you need to protect your rights, reputation, and future. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you.