Almost no sex crime is taken more seriously than a crime involving a minor. Simply being charged with a sex crime against a minor can have dramatic and long-standing consequences. However, actually being convicted of sexual conduct with a minor can be life-altering. Your ability to secure a job, get an apartment, or even spend time in a park may be irreparably damaged.
At The Morris Firm, we understand the serious implications that a sexual conduct with a minor charge can impose on an individual, both emotionally and criminally. That is why we are dedicated to diligently working with you on creating a compelling and strong legal defense for your situation. You need experience and compassion on your side – that is what we strive to provide to all our clients.
Don’t wait to get the legal help you need. These charges won’t magically go away. You need immediate, strong representation to help you navigate the legal process. Talk to an experienced Pensacola sex crime defense attorney today about your situation. Call (850) 503-2626, and let’s set up a case evaluation.
Definition of Sexual Conduct with a Minor
Florida law prohibits what is officially called “unlawful sexual activity with certain minors.” This refers to any type of sexual contact by a person 24 years of age or older with a person who is 16 or 17 years old. Sexual activity refers to any form of oral, anal, or vaginal penetration by an individual or an object. Even though a minor can say “yes” to engaging in a sexual act, consent from a minor is not a viable defense in the state of Florida. A minor’s previous sexual history can also not be considered relevant in a court of law.
Another common misconception when it comes to sexual conduct with a minor charge is that if the individual did not know the minor’s true age, then no crime has been committed. That is false. Ignorance of a minor’s true age is not considered a viable defense by Florida courts. That is why it is vital to get an experienced defense attorney on your side immediately. Cases involving sexual activity are nuanced and complex. You need a legal team with the resources and experience it takes to help build a solid defense strategy for you. Protect your legal rights by contacting The Morris Firm today.
Penalties for Sexual Conduct with a Minor
Unlawful sexual activity with a minor is a serious offense. Under state law, it is considered a second-degree felony and carries heavy consequences if an individual is convicted. If an individual is found guilty of the charges, a judge may pronounce a sentence upon them that includes any combination of the following penalties:
- Up to 15 years in prison
- Up to 15 years of probation
- Fines up to $10,000
In addition to these penalties, anyone convicted of sexual activity with a minor will be required to register in the state of Florida as a sex offender. This will also mean having to report to the authorities on a periodic basis and having to provide a current address and employment status. For those with prior convictions, especially of a sexual nature, a judge may impose enhanced penalties.
Registering as a Sex Offender
Having to register as a sex offender after a conviction can be a life-altering experience. This registry has the ability to impact everything in your life, from the people you interact with to what kind of job you can hold down. It also means that detailed information about you, including your picture, is put online, readily accessible to anyone.
The public sex offender registry website is also updated in “real-time,” meaning you must provide authorities with correct and up-to-date information regarding your address, employment status, and other pertinent information as soon as any changes occur. A conviction means you must also obtain a new driver’s license from the DMV, which specifically states that you are a sex offender. Other conditions that you may have to comply with include:
- Sex offender treatment program
- Random searches by a probation officer
- Restrictions on where you can live
- Restrictions on being near parks, schools, or other areas with minors
- Restrictions on volunteering or working with minors
- Theme park restrictions
Legal Defenses for Sexual Conduct with a Minor
A strong legal defense is a well-crafted plan that draws on an attorney’s experience and the particular circumstances of the individual case. No two cases are ever alike, and a strong defender should never use a one-size-fits-all strategy. The legal team at The Morris Firm thoroughly reviews all the elements of a sexual conduct case, from the incident itself to the police work leading up to the arrest. We review the situation and the evidence, and from there, craft a defense strategy that gives you the best opportunity for a positive outcome.
In Florida, consent from a minor or ignorance of their age is not a viable defense in the eyes of the court. Defense strategies that may apply to your unique situation could include:
- False allegation
- Lack of evidence
- Unreliability of the evidence
- Illegal search and seizure
- Inaccuracy of witness statement
Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney Today
Prosecutors aggressively pursue sexual cases involving minors. You need an equally aggressive attorney on your side who can protect your rights. The attorneys with The Morris Firm are experienced and professional and can handle your case with the support and guidance you need during this stressful time. We will guide you through every step of the legal process and work towards the most positive outcome for your situation.
Everyone deserves a strong defense. If you have been charged with sexual conduct with a minor, get immediate representation from a defense team with the knowledge and the resources to fight for you. Contact the experienced team at The Morris Firm today. Schedule a case evaluation by calling us at (850) 503-2626, and let’s talk about building a solid defense for you.
