Lakeland, FL Sex Crime Defense Attorney

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Lakeland, FL - Ricardo Alvarez offers aggressive legal services for alleged sex crimes. Contact Sex Crime Defense Attorney Ricardo Alvarez Today!

Call 863.709.0808 about your Sex Crime Defense legal needs in Lakeland, Polk County, and Central Florida.

Sex Crimes have a unique distinction of being one of the few crimes that if convicted will result in the guilty party to have to register as a sexual offender. This distinction will affect where you can live, and in some cases where you can work or even socialize. And this is all after the jail or prison term the convicted party may have to serve. Once thought to be a strictly male driven crime, in recent years there has been a distinct increase women being charged and convicted of sex crimes as well.

Many individuals each year are wrongfully accused of sex crimes throughout the United States. Our duty as your attorney is to vigorously fight for you in an effort to ensure you do not fall victim to a legal system that is under tremendous political and social pressure to convict anyone who is indicted for a sex crime.

Sex Crimes may include, but are not limited to:

Child Molestation • Lewd Acts with Child • Child Pornography • Sodomy • Spousal Rape / Marital Rape • Date Rape • Statutory Rape • Sexual Assault • Sexual Battery • Internet Sex Crimes • Human Trafficking • Indecent Exposure • Prostitution • Solicitation of Prostitution • Sexual Abuse • Incest • Sex with Animals • Avoiding Registration as Sex Offender.

In order to obtain a conviction for sexual crimes the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused actually committed the crime (or crimes) he or she is being tried for. Depending upon the specific sex crime, this may include placing the accused at the scene of the alleged crime, provide proof of the act or acts in question, sometimes intent must be proven, sometimes a lack or absence of consent must be proven.

If the defense presented by your attorney at trial causes just one jury member to have reasonable doubt as to the accused guilt of committing the the sex crime, as it relates to the current trial, the accused cannot be found guilty. If the jury believes that your defense was more credible or viable than the prosecution's case, than you may be acquitted of all charges.

If you have been charged with a sex crime, you need an attorney on your side who is knowledgeable of the law, experienced at trial, and able to negotiate for you from a position of strength. Call our law office 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 863.709.0808, or by using our online case evaluation form.

We stand ready to aggressively represent you, and answer all of your questions. An aggressive defense of your case in the early stages could lead to the charges against you being dismissed or reduced.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY SERVING LAKELAND, WINTER HAVEN, BARTOW, POLK COUNTY, AND CENTRAL FLORIDA

Contact Sex Crime Lawyer, Ricardo Alvarez today at 863.709.0808

Ricardo Alvarez is a Criminal Defense Attorney who serves the Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Polk County, Hardee County, Highlands County, Hillsborough County and Central Florida areas.

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez handles local, state and federal criminal cases.

Mr. Alvarez is a former prosecutor for the 10th Judicial Circuit of Florida, whichh covers Hardee, Highlands, and Polk Counties.

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez was also former producer, news director, and vice president of news & Sports for Telemundo in New York, NY, and was also a producer and executive producer for Univision in New York, NY and San Fransisco, CA.

RICARDO ALVAREZ - BIOGRAPHY › › ›

Criminal Defense • DUI Defense • Drug Charges • Felony • Misdemeanor • Arson • Assault • Battery • Burglary • Robbery • Theft • Traffic Crimes • Traffic Ticket • Driving Under License Suspension • Domestic Violence Defense • Domestic Injunction Violations • Fraud Crimes • Homicide Crimes • Juvenile Offender Defense • Sealing and Expungement • Sex Crimes • Violation of Probation Defense • Weapon - Firearm Charge Defense • White Collar Crime Defense

CONTACT THE LAW OFFICE OF RICARDO ALVAREZ, P.A. › › ›

What are types of Sex Crimes in the State of Florida?

In the State of Florida, various types of sex crimes are categorized under state law. Some of the common sex crimes in Florida include:

Child Molestation • Lewd Acts with Child • Child Pornography • Sodomy • Spousal Rape / Marital Rape • Date Rape • Statutory Rape • Sexual Assault • Sexual Battery • Internet Sex Crimes • Human Trafficking • Indecent Exposure • Prostitution • Solicitation of Prostitution • Sexual Abuse • Incest • Sex with Animals • Avoiding Registration as Sex Offender.

What are the potential penalties for sex crime convictions in Florida?

Penalties for sex crime convictions in Florida can vary widely based on the specific offense and circumstances, but they can be severe. For example, convictions for sexual battery or rape can result in lengthy prison sentences, including life imprisonment for certain cases. Offenders may also be required to register as sex offenders, subjecting them to community notification and residency restrictions. Convictions for lewd or lascivious acts with a minor may lead to incarceration, probation, and mandatory sex offender registration. Child pornography offenses can result in significant prison terms and mandatory registration as well. Additionally, those found guilty of soliciting prostitution may face fines, probation, or mandatory educational programs. Human trafficking convictions can lead to lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines.

Are there types of Sex Crimes that you do not have to actually commit the act to be convicted in the State of Florida?

In Florida, some sex crimes do not require the actual commission of the act for a conviction. For example, attempted sexual battery or attempted rape can lead to charges and penalties even if the act was not completed. Additionally, solicitation of a minor or engaging in sexually explicit conversations with a minor online can result in criminal charges, even if there was no physical contact. Child pornography charges can be brought against individuals who possess, distribute, or create explicit images of minors, regardless of whether they were directly involved in the production. These offenses highlight the importance of understanding the broad scope of sex crime laws in Florida and the potential consequences of engaging in related activities, even if the act itself was not completed.

In the State of Florida, is it still a sex crime the individual you had sexual contact with told you he or she was over the age of 18 and showed you an ID that stated that they were over the age of 18, when they were actually under the age of 18?

In Florida, if an individual engages in sexual activity with another person who represented themselves as being over the age of 18 and provided a fake ID, while they were actually under the age of 18, it can still result in criminal charges. Florida's age of consent is generally 18, and the law typically does not provide an exception for cases where the minor misrepresented their age. The law places the responsibility on the person engaging in sexual activity to verify the age of their partner independently. Ignorance of the minor's true age is generally not a valid defense in such cases, and it can lead to serious legal consequences, including charges related to statutory rape or sexual battery.

Can I negotiate a plea deal or settlement in a sex crime case in Florida?

Yes, plea deals or settlements are common in sex crime cases in Florida, just as in other criminal cases. Prosecutors may offer plea bargains to resolve sex crime charges, which can involve reducing the charges or recommending a lighter sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. The terms of these deals vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the strength of the evidence. However, it's crucial to understand that sex crimes are often treated very seriously by the legal system, and plea negotiations may still result in significant penalties, including mandatory sex offender registration and lifelong consequences. Consulting with an experienced attorney is essential to navigate the legal process, evaluate the potential consequences, and make informed decisions about plea deals in sex crime cases.

Is the State of Florida one of the States that no longer has Statute of Limitations for alleged Rape charges?

While no legislation has been passed that completely does away with the Statute of Limitations for all sex crimes, In September 2021, Donna’s Law pas passed for certain sexual offenses commited after July 1s, 2020 can be prosecuted at any time. Prosecutors have been particually savy in bringing charges in a manner that includes rape and sexually motivated crimes against children. However, the list of types of sexual offences is growing, and rape charges are agressively prosecuted. With more an more States moving to do away with the Statue of Limitations for any Rape Crime, it is not out of the question for the Florida Legislature to soon follow suit.

Can I be charged with a sex crime even if it was consensual?

Yes, individuals can be charged with a sex crime even if the sexual activity was consensual under certain circumstances. Consent is a complex legal issue, and it depends on various factors, including age, mental capacity, and the specific nature of the sexual activity. For example, in cases involving minors, the age of consent laws come into play, and engaging in sexual activity with a minor, even if both parties agreed, can lead to charges. Additionally, if consent was obtained through coercion, manipulation, or when one party was unable to provide informed consent due to intoxication or incapacitation, it may not be considered valid consent in the eyes of the law, potentially leading to charges of sexual assault or rape. Consent should be voluntary, informed, and freely given by all parties involved to be legally valid.

What do I do if I had consentual sex, and  

In a sex crime case in Florida, various types of evidence may be used against you. This can include physical evidence such as DNA, forensic examination results, and photographs. Witness testimony, including statements from the alleged victim and any witnesses, plays a crucial role. Electronic evidence, such as text messages, emails, or social media interactions, may also be introduced to establish communication or intent. Additionally, any prior criminal record, especially if it includes similar offenses, may be presented in court to establish a pattern of behavior. The credibility and consistency of the evidence, as well as how it was collected and handled, can significantly impact the outcome of the case.

Are there any alternatives to incarceration for sex crime offenders in Florida?

In some cases, Yes, there are alternatives to incarceration for sex crime offenders in Florida. Depending on the circumstances of the case, some individuals may be eligible for probation or community supervision, which can include mandatory counseling, sex offender treatment programs, and strict reporting requirements. Additionally, some offenders may be eligible for pretrial diversion programs, where they can avoid incarceration by completing rehabilitation or educational programs. In cases where incarceration is not the primary sentence, sex offenders may be subject to registry requirements, parole, or probation for a specified period. It's important to note that eligibility for these alternatives varies based on the specific charges, the defendant's criminal history, and other factors.

Contact Domestic Violence Criminal Defense Lawyer, Ricardo Alvarez today at 863.709.0808

6700 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813

Phone: 863.709.0808

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