Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers
The accusation of sexual assault can permanently tarnish your reputation, and like all sex crimes in the state of Florida, the penalties for a conviction are severe. If you are charged with sexual assault, prosecutors will aggressively pursue your case, and you will need a Florida sexual assault attorney who will fight back just as aggressively. Our experienced defense lawyers will thoroughly investigate the claims made against you and will prepare the best defense possible to help improve your chances of avoiding jail time, fines and registration on the sexual offenders list.
How the state defines it
In Florida, sexual assault falls under the state’s general assault and battery laws. It encompasses a wide range of nonconsensual sexual activities, and can include making sexually suggestive statements or threats as well as physically touching a person’s genitals. Forced kissing, child sexual abuse and attempted rape also are considered sexual assault. Victims and the accused can be of any age or gender, and a person can be charged with sexual assault even if a charge is made by a spouse. An act of rape, in which oral, vaginal or anal penetration occur, is considered sexual battery.
According to the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence, 17 percent of women in Florida have been raped, and roughly 41 percent of Florida women have been victims of other types of sexual violence that fall short of penetrative sex.
Charges carry steep penalties
Penalties for sexual assault vary depending on the exact nature of the crime and the ages of the accused and victim. Most sexual assault and sexual battery charges involving physical contact with the victim are felonies, and punishments can range from five years in prison for a third-degree felony to life in prison for a life felony. Those convicted of sex crimes likely also will have to pay significant fines and register as sex offenders in Florida.
For your best shot at avoiding the life-altering consequences of a sexual assault conviction, contact Ohle Law P.A. immediately after an accusation or arrest. Our skilled attorneys will meticulously examine the evidence to help prepare a solid sexual assault defense. We will fight hard on your behalf to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.