Miami Lewd and Lascivious Conduct Attorney
Whether you or a loved one has been arrested or is under investigation for lewd and lascivious conduct or lewd and lascivious battery, it is critical to consult with an experienced Miami lewd and lascivious conduct attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the process and help maximize your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
What are Lewd and Lascivious Conduct Charges in Florida?
Under Florida Statutes section 800.04(6), lewd or lascivious conduct includes intentionally touching someone under 16 in a lewd or lascivious manner, or soliciting that person to commit a lewd or lascivious act. Solicitation does not require physical contact.
Possible Penalty for Lewd and Lascivious Conduct Charge
For an offender age 18 or older, lewd or lascivious conduct is a second-degree felony, ordinarily punishable by up to 15 years in prison. For an offender under 18, it is a third-degree felony, ordinarily punishable by up to 5 years in prison if sentenced as an adult. Most sexual offenses are based on the alleged victim’s testimony. Lewd and lascivious conduct cases are no different. It is critical to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An experienced defense lawyer can evaluate your case and come up with the most compelling defense to present to the prosecutor, court, and jury.
What is a Lewd and Lascivious Battery?
Lewd or lascivious battery includes sexual activity with a child age 12 through 15. It also includes encouraging, forcing, or enticing a child under 16 to engage in sexual activity, prostitution, sadomasochistic abuse, or sexual bestiality.
Lewd or lascivious battery and sexual battery are separate offenses with different elements and penalties.
Consent and a mistaken belief about the child’s age are not defenses to lewd or lascivious battery. Florida’s Romeo and Juliet registration-relief provision allows some people who meet its requirements to seek removal of sex-offender registration obligations. It does not make the underlying conduct lawful or provide a defense to the charge.
Possible Penalty for Lewd and Lascivious Battery Charge
Lewd or lascivious battery is generally a second-degree felony, ordinarily punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. An adult with a qualifying prior conviction can face a first-degree felony, ordinarily punishable by up to 30 years. Sex-offender probation carries strict conditions when imposed. An adult conviction generally also requires sex-offender registration, even if adjudication is withheld, unless the person qualifies for relief. Even after you have served your sentence, the stigma of being a convicted sex offender can follow you for the rest of your life.
Contact an Experienced Lewd and Lascivious Molestation Attorney in Miami
By immediately hiring an experienced lewd and lascivious molestation attorney in Miami, you are reducing the chances that your case will result in long-term consequences for your career, personal life, and reputation. You need the counsel of one of our experienced lawyers to guide you through the process and maximize your chances of resolving your case with a favorable outcome. CALL US NOW for a CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION at (305) 538-4545, or simply take a moment to fill out our securely encrypted intake form. The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry.
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