Protect Your Rights Against Sex Crime Allegations in Florida
Since the start of the #MeToo movement toward the end of 2017, there has been an influx of sexual misconduct allegations in every industry. Unfortunately, such accusations can have profound damage to a person’s life and reputation—even before he/she is ever formally charged for the underlying offense. Although many people may believe hiring a Sarasota sex crime lawyer is a sign of guilt, doing so is one of the most important steps to clearing your name and protecting your rights and freedom.
Sex Crime Cases We Handle
At the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA, we have a solid understanding of how the state prepares and presents sex crime cases. Before opening our practice, Eric Reisinger spent time as a prosecutor at the State Attorney’s Office, where he learned the strategies and tactics the state uses to obtain a guilty plea or verdict.
We aggressively defend individuals facing sex crime charges, including:
Rape or Sexual Battery Defense: We will carefully investigate the facts and circumstances to make certain that law enforcement officers have followed procedure and gathered all relevant evidence. We will look for any evidence that suggests consent, as well as indications that the victim has a history of problems telling the truth. When appropriate, we will also seek and evaluate DNA evidence, if available.
Lewd and Lascivious Behavior Defense: We defend people on all types of charges that fall under lewd and lascivious behavior, including exposing or touching yourself in a lewd way in public. We handle crimes involving lewd or lascivious behavior toward children.
If you are accused of a sex crime in Sarasota or Arcadia, contact us today at (941) 541-5335 and schedule a free consultation with our Sarasota sex crime attorney.
Understanding the Legal Process for Sex Crime Allegations
Navigating the complexities of sex crime allegations can be overwhelming. At the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the legal process is crucial for anyone facing such serious charges. Our experienced Sarasota sex crime lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way.
Here’s what you can expect during the legal process:
Initial Consultation: We offer a confidential consultation to discuss your case and outline your options.
Investigation: Our team will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence and building a strong defense tailored to your situation.
Pre-Trial Proceedings: We will navigate pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, and prepare you for potential trial scenarios.
Trial: If necessary, we will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to protect your rights and interests.
Post-Conviction Options: If convicted, we can assist with appeals and other post-conviction remedies to seek justice on your behalf.
By understanding each phase of the legal process, you can make informed decisions about your defense strategy. Our dedicated team is committed to providing you with the support and expertise you need during this challenging time.
Key Insights on Sexual Battery Charges in Florida
Sexual battery, such as rape, involves using coercion, force, or incapacitation to commit a non-consensual sexual activity. Rape is considered a second-degree felony, which carries a maximum prison term of 15 years, fines of up to $1,000. However, if a sexual battery involves a physically helpless victim, threats of serious physical injury, a drugged victim, or an offender who is a police officer or in a position of control, it is aggravated sexual battery is a first-degree felony, punishable by a maximum 30-year prison sentence and a fine no more than $10,000.
If aggravated sexual battery involves a person between 12 and 18 years old, a deadly weapon, or likely to cause serious personal injury, it is a life felony, punishable by life imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000. If aggravated sexual battery involves a child under 12 years of age, it is a capital felony, which is punishable by life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.
Furthermore, a conviction of a sex crime can result in registration as a sex offender – potentially for the rest of your life.
Understanding Your Rights and Options
Facing accusations of child pornography or any sex crime can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. It is crucial to understand that you have rights and options available to you. At the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA, we believe that every individual deserves a fair defense and a thorough understanding of the legal process.
Here are some important points to consider:
Your Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to an attorney who can advocate for you and ensure that your case is handled with the utmost care and attention.
Presumption of Innocence: In the eyes of the law, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Our team will work tirelessly to uphold this principle throughout your case.
Confidential Consultations: We offer confidential consultations to discuss your situation without judgment. This is an opportunity to ask questions and understand the legal landscape.
Exploring Defense Strategies: Our experienced attorneys will evaluate the details of your case and identify potential defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
Emotional Support: We understand the emotional toll that such allegations can take. Our team is here to provide not only legal support but also guidance and resources to help you navigate this challenging time.
Don't face these serious charges alone.
Penalties of Sex Crimes in Florida
Sex crimes in Florida carry severe penalties, as the state takes these offenses very seriously. The specific penalties depend on the nature of the crime, the age of the victim, and the defendant’s criminal history. Below are some of the potential penalties for sex crimes in Florida:
Prison Sentences
Many sex crimes are felonies, with penalties ranging from several years in prison to life imprisonment. For example, sexual battery on a child under 12 may result in a life sentence. Aggravated sexual battery or crimes involving violence may carry enhanced sentences.
Sex Offender Registration
Convicted individuals are often required to register as sex offenders, which impacts housing, employment, and community restrictions. Failure to comply with registration requirements is a separate criminal offense.
Fines
Fines can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the offense.
Probation and Mandatory Counseling
Probation terms often include restrictions on internet use, travel, and proximity to certain areas, such as schools. Mandatory counseling or rehabilitation programs are often ordered as part of the sentence.
Civil Penalties
Victims may pursue civil lawsuits, resulting in financial liability for damages. Convictions for sex crimes in Florida have long-lasting consequences. If accused, it’s critical to consult with an experienced attorney to protect your rights and mount a strong defense.
Contact Our Sarasota Sex Crime Attorney Today
Our Sarasota sex crime attorney can quickly review the evidence against you and accurately assess the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecutor’s case. We will vigorously fight to help you avoid being classified as a sex offender, with the requirement that you register as such. The requirement can stay with you for the rest of your life, and can include mandates that you notify police and neighbors, and that you stay away from schools or playgrounds. Our Sarasota sex crime attorney will use his experience, knowledge and skill to help you get the best possible outcome.
Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.
Not Guilty Verdict2016 CF 004875 NC – Life Felony Second Degree Murder
Not Guilty Verdict2017 CF 000169 – Life Felony Armed Robbery
Successful Resolution2017 CF 002479 AX – 15 Counts of Possession of Child Pornography
Not Guilty Verdict2017 MM 11498 – Misdemeanor Battery and Misdemeanor Sex Offense -Unnatural and Lascivious Act
Case Dismissed2018 CF 000323 – Two Counts Felony Battery on a Person 65 or Older
Case Dismissed2018 CF 002675 AX–Felony Battery on a Person 65 or Older
When you hire the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA to defend you on a criminal charge, we will conduct a full investigation of the circumstances leading to your arrest. As a former prosecutor at the State Attorney’s Office, Attorney Reisinger has in-depth knowledge and understanding of how the state prepares and presents its cases.
