Sex Crime Attorney in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving All of Pinellas, Hillsborough & Manatee Counties, FL
Facing allegations of sex crimes can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. Defendants can be unfairly prejudged by the community, but they are constitutionally entitled to the presumption of innocence. Defendants need a sex crime attorney who will stand by them, believe in them, and work hard to protect them. We will.
The sex crime lawyers in our St. Petersburg office understand the sensitive nature of these cases. We are committed to giving our clients personalized attention and a defense strategy designed to meet the needs of their specific situations. With our team, you benefit not only from legal prowess but also from compassionate counsel that acknowledges each client's unique circumstances.
Call (727) 619-1827 for assistance or contact us online to set up a consultation with a sex crime attorney in St. Petersburg.
Common Sex Crimes in Florida We Handle
Sex crime charges encompass a wide range of illegal actions. Depending on the circumstances, including the defendant's prior criminal record, these offenses may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies.
Below are some of the most common sex crime allegations and what they entail:
- Sexual Battery: This involves non-consensual sexual contact. It is considered a felony in Florida and can lead to life imprisonment in severe cases, such as when a weapon is involved or the victim is a child.
- Sexual Assault: These charges typically involve unwanted sexual advances or physical contact. Aggravating factors, such as causing physical injuries to the victim, can increase the severity of penalties.
- Child Pornography: Possessing child pornography is a felony in Florida and carries serious prison sentences and heavy fines. The penalties can escalate further if the accused is determined to have distributed or produced such material.
- Lewd or Lascivious Conduct: This crime involves inappropriate, sexualized behavior directed at or performed in front of a minor. Penalties for lewd or lascivious conduct can include prison, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and strict probation terms.
- Indecent Exposure: While often charged as a misdemeanor, repeated offenses or incidents involving minors can result in felony charges. Community complaints and the context of the incident could be key considerations in determining the outcome of these cases.
- Prostitution & Solicitation: Engaging in or soliciting prostitution is typically charged as a misdemeanor. Repeat offenders may face more severe charges. Additional charges, such as running or participating in a prostitution ring, can carry even harsher consequences.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Sex Crimes Conviction in Florida
A conviction for a sex crime in Florida brings a cascade of devastating penalties that extend far beyond prison time and fines.
Direct Penalties:
- Incarceration: Sentences can range from years to life imprisonment, often with mandatory minimums, depending on the specific charge and aggravating factors.
- Fines: Substantial monetary fines are common, adding to the financial burden.
- Probation/Community Control: Even after release from prison, individuals often face lengthy periods of strict supervision.
- Mandatory Minimums: Many sex offenses carry statutory mandatory minimum sentences, limiting a judge's discretion.
- Civil Commitment (Jimmy Ryce Act): In some cases, individuals deemed "sexually violent predators" can be civilly committed to a secure treatment facility even after completing their prison sentence, potentially for the remainder of their lives. A St. Petersburg sex crime lawyer will advise you on the applicability of such laws to your case.
Why Choose Plotnick Law Offices?
Experience, Commitment, and Personalized Care
As a former prosecutor, we understand how to build strong cases. Our hands-on approach ensures you’re supported every step of the way.
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Experience That Matters
Led by a former prosecutor, Plotnick Law Offices offers unique insights and strategic advantages for every case. Our deep understanding of the legal system ensures that we can effectively advocate for your rights and best interests.
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Relentless Preparation
Success begins with preparation. We leave no stone unturned when investigating and building your case, ensuring that every detail is thoroughly examined to strengthen your position.
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Hands-On Advocacy
When you choose Plotnick Law Offices, you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney from start to finish. We don’t shuffle clients between attorneys—you’ll always have consistent and reliable guidance.
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Personalized Representation
At Plotnick Law Offices, we prioritize building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, ensuring that your case strategy is tailored to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Experienced Sex Crimes Lawyers in St. Petersburg
We’ve served the Tampa Bay Area since 2004, and our founder, Marc F. Plotnick, was a prosecutor before going into practice as a sex crime lawyer. That wide-ranging experience can give us unique insights into how a case might unfold and the best strategies to employ. We know that the District Attorney’s case is not always as strong as they might like defendants to believe. We understand the dynamics of both negotiating lesser charges and vigorously litigating in a court of law. You can be confident that you or the person you love will get a capable and competent legal defense from our team.
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“I cannot thank you enough for your help, Marc, honestly. I made a stupid mistake and it took you no time to take care of the situation.”- Frank M.
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“I would definitely recommend them to someone in need of any attorney services.”- Priestly V.
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“He is compassionate and helpful.”- Carolyn A.
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“In the end, the result was way over my expectations.”- J. Hughes
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“Quick to respond to communications and always kept me informed during the entire process.”- Michael K.
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“I truly appreciate everything he did and his communication with me was greatly appreciated.”- Tawna L.
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“Nothing is worse than waiting around wondering what’s going to happen to you, which didn’t happen at all after hiring Marc.”- Jared
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“When I tell you they treat you like family, that's no lie!”- Jeffrey B.
Want to learn more about the team behind your case? Visit our About page to meet Marc F. Plotnick and Paul S. Horning, and discover how their experience can make a difference for you.
The Florida Sex Offender Registry
The Florida Sex Offender Registry is a database maintained by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) that contains information about those convicted of sex crimes in the state. This registry is accessible to the public and serves as a tool for law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and concerned citizens to monitor the whereabouts of registered sex offenders.
Being listed on the registry can have significant consequences for those convicted of crimes, including restrictions on where they can live, work, or even visit. It can also impact personal relationships, employment opportunities, and overall quality of life. Individuals on the Florida Sex Offender Registry are required to regularly update their information and comply with specific registration requirements.
Moreover, being labeled as a sex offender can lead to social stigma, isolation, and ongoing challenges in reintegrating into society. The consequences can linger well after one’s sentence has been served.
Ways to Beat a Sex Crimes Charge in St. Petersburg Court
Criminal defense strategies will always be based on the specific situation our defendants face. These are just a few of the options available:
- The Consent Defense: If the alleged victim was of age, of sound mental capacity, and gave consent, then there is no crime. What’s more, it is the prosecution’s job to show that consent was lacking. The defendant is innocent until proven otherwise.
- The Alibi Defense: Can we substantiate that the defendant was somewhere else at the time the alleged crime was committed? If so, that can be a powerful defense.
- Witness Testimony: This involves everything from bringing forth character witnesses on behalf of the defendant to finding inconsistencies in the testimony of the prosecution’s witnesses.
- Violation of Rights: Any violations of the defendant’s constitutional rights during the investigation or arrest process might lead to the dismissal of charges—or, at the very least, the suppression of evidence that was illegally obtained by authorities.
Additionally, our seasoned team employs various investigative techniques, such as examining digital evidence, interviewing relevant parties, and reviewing law enforcement procedures, to uncover crucial details that could strengthen the defense. Our strategic approach empowers clients, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of their case dynamics and the potential pathways to acquittal or charge reduction.
The Importance of Prompt Legal Action
Time is a critical factor when facing sex crime allegations. The sooner you engage a St. Petersburg sex crime lawyer, the better your chances of a successful outcome.
- Preserving Evidence: Crucial evidence can disappear or be destroyed over time. An immediate investigation ensures that all available evidence, both exculpatory and inculpatory, is secured.
- Witness Recollection: Memories fade, and witnesses become harder to locate. Prompt action allows us to interview witnesses while their recollections are fresh.
- Shaping the Narrative: Early intervention allows your St. Petersburg sex crime lawyer to influence the narrative of the investigation before charges are formally filed, potentially preventing charges altogether or leading to lesser charges.
- Protecting Your Rights: Without legal representation, you risk inadvertently providing information to law enforcement that could be used against you. Your St. Petersburg sex crime lawyer will safeguard your constitutional rights, including your right to remain silent.
- Navigating Pre-Trial Procedures: There are numerous opportunities to challenge the prosecution's case before trial, such as motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. A St. Petersburg sex crime lawyer will aggressively pursue these avenues.
Choose Plotnick Law Offices: Your St. Petersburg Sex Crime Lawyer
The stakes in a sex crime case are immeasurable. Your freedom, your reputation, your family, and your future are all on the line. You need a formidable legal advocate who will fight relentlessly on your behalf. Plotnick Law Offices is prepared to be that advocate.
Call our St. Petersburg office today at (727) 619-1827 or fill out our online form. We can meet either virtually or in person for your convenience with a dedicated sex crime attorney.