Miami, Florida Unlawful Sexual Activity With a Minor Attorney

Skilled Lawyer Defending Against Child Molestation and Sexual Misconduct Charges in Miami, FL

Allegations of sex crimes involving children are among the most serious criminal charges a person can face. People who are convicted of these offenses are likely to face lengthy prison sentences, and they will also be required to register as sex offenders. Mere accusations of child molestation or related offenses can destroy a person's reputation, personal relationships, and career. Because these cases often involve complex legal issues, emotional testimony, and forensic evidence, it is crucial to have a strong legal defense.

At The Hoffman Firm, our attorney can analyze the evidence in these cases, challenge the prosecution's claims, and ensure that a defendant receives a fair trial. These matters require a strategic defense that considers factors such as false accusations, mistaken identity, lack of intent, or constitutional violations. Attorney Evan Hoffman has a strong understanding of Florida's sex crime laws and the defense strategies that can be used in these situations, and he will work to protect the rights of clients and help them achieve the best possible outcomes to their cases.

Unlawful Sexual Activity With a Minor

Florida law prohibits those who are at least 24 years old from engaging in sexual activity with minors between the ages of 16 and 17. Even if a minor consents, an adult may face criminal charges for engaging in sexual intercourse with the minor. This offense is a second-degree felony, and a person who is convicted may face a possible prison sentence of as much as 15 years, as well as a fine as high as $10,000.

Lewd or Lascivious Battery

Adults over the age of 18 may face criminal charges if they engage in any form of sexual activity with children under the age of 16. Charges of lewd or lascivious battery may apply if an adult has sexual intercourse with a minor between the age of 12 and 16 or if they force, or encourage a child under the age of 16 to engage in any form of sexual activity, including prostitution, bestiality, or sadomasochistic abuse. This offense is a second-degree felony.

Lewd or Lascivious Molestation

If an adult engages in sexual contact other than intercourse with a child, they may be charged with lewd or lascivious molestation. A person who touches a child's private parts or causes a child to touch their own private parts could face criminal charges. If an adult over the age of 18 touches a child between the ages of 12 and 16, they may be charged with a second-degree felony. A person under the age of 18 touches a child under the age of 12, second-degree felony charges may apply, and if they touch a child between the ages of 12 and 16, they may be charged with a third-degree felony, which carries a potential sentence of five years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000. An adult who touches a child under the age of 12 may be charged with a life felony that could result in a sentence of life in prison.

Online Solicitation of a Minor

Florida law makes it a crime to use the internet or electronic communication to solicit a minor into engaging in sexual activity. Law enforcement agencies will often conduct sting operations in which undercover officers pose as minors online. Even if no actual minor was involved, a person can still face charges based on their online communications and their attempts to meet a minor to engage in unlawful sexual conduct.

The offense of traveling to meet a minor may apply in situations where a person allegedly enticed or lured a child into engaging in sexual acts that are illegal, and the person allegedly traveled to meet the child. Travel may be within the state of Florida, to Florida from another state, or from Florida to another state. This offense is a second-degree felony.

Contact Our Miami Child Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

If you have been accused of a sex crime involving a minor in Miami, you will need legal help to address these charges and defend against a conviction. Because of the severe penalties that you may face, a strong defense is essential to help you protect your rights and your future. The Miami child molestation defense attorney at The Hoffman Firm understands the sensitive nature of these cases, and he will help you determine the best approach to take to protect your reputation and avoid a sex crime conviction. Contact us at 305-249-0090 to discuss your case in a free and confidential consultation.