Sex Crimes

Being investigated for sex crimes in Florida can cause feelings of immense anxiety. Understandably so. If you find yourself, or someone you care about, in such a position, the first positive step to take is to set up a consultation with a law firm experienced in defending sex crime charges. In southern Florida, there is no team more qualified than Piotrowski Law.

Protecting Your Rights, Your Reputation, and Your Future

With Piotrowski Law firm, there is no judgment. We understand the pressure someone learning of a criminal investigation into sex crimes can bring. But investigation and accusation do not mean conviction, and we are here to protect your rights. We are committed to our clients’ privacy and to the “presumption of innocence.”

Understanding Sex Crime Charges in Florida

It is important for any possible defendant to understand sex crime charges in Florida. Recent laws have become even tougher on sexual offenses.

Most offenses require sex offender registration, including:

• Sexual battery
• Lewd and lascivious acts
• Solicitation
• Child pornography
• Online solicitation of a minor

Convictions of sex crimes carry a minimum weight of five years up to a lifetime conviction, or even the death penalty for sexual assault against children under 12.

The Long-Term Impact of Sex Offender Registration

Even following release from custody, anyone registered as a sex offender in Florida will have lifetime regulations and restrictions, including recent updates to SB 212, effective July 1, 2016.

Included are:

• Housing restrictions of at least 1,000 feet from any school, daycare, or park.
• Barriers affecting employment.
• A lifelong registration for most, with a few exceptions for 25 years of a clean record.
• Severe penalties for non-compliance, including a third-degree felony for not updating information, which could result in possible prison time.

Despite a withholding of adjudication and no formal conviction, a defendant may still have to register as a sex offender.

Strategic Defense Against Sex Offense Allegations

It is essential for those being investigated to reach out to an experienced sex crimes lawyer immediately to help prevent charges from being formally filed. Sex crimes defense involves conducting an independent investigation, looking for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case while examining possible evidence, and looking for inconsistencies.

Challenging the Evidence and Intent

False accusations and prosecution credibility can be challenged with common motives of false claims, including divorce leverage, custody disputes, and mistaken identity. Illegal searches of phones and computers are Fourth Amendment violations, and improper interrogations are a Fifth Amendment violation. Both are illegal.

Why Choose Piotrowski Law for Your Defense?

During his legal career, Chad Piotrowski has served as a Miami-Dade State Prosecutor, which gives him insight into how a prosecutor thinks. This gives him the foresight into how a prosecuting attorney may act and react. As such, he can predict moves of the opposition and create valuable defense strategies for your defense.

The Piotrowski team has garnered respect across Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Monroe counties and throughout the state. You can trust our discretion, confidentiality, and protection for our clients’ reputations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Sex Crimes

Will I have to register as a sex offender if my charges are dismissed?

Generally, not. If charges are dismissed, registration is not needed.

What is the difference between a “Sexual Offender” and a “Sexual Predator” in Florida?

In Florida, a sex offender is someone who has been convicted of or has pled guilty or no contest to a sex offense involving a minor. A sexual predator is someone who has a history of being a repeat sexual offender or someone who has used physical violence during their offense(s).

Can a sex crime conviction ever be sealed or expunged in Florida?

No, a sex crime conviction cannot be sealed or expunged in the state of Florida.

How soon should I contact a lawyer if I am under investigation?

Contact an experienced, established sex crimes defense attorney at once.

Contact a Florida Sex Crimes Lawyer Today

If you find yourself, or a friend, being investigated or accused of a sex crime, don’t wait. Contact Piotrowski Law to defend your rights and protect your freedom. For a discreet, non-judgmental review of your case, call us now!