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Sexual Offenses: Definitions And Punishments

Whether you have been accused, are under investigation or have been charged with a sex crime, you need to understand the terms that are being thrown around regarding your situation.

You also need to know what the potential consequences of a conviction are so you and your defense lawyer can work toward the best possible outcome.

What Are You Up Against?

One possible consequence is being forced to become a registered sex offender. Being a registered sex offender will haunt you wherever you go due to federal sex offender laws. This status makes it hard to find a job or find a place to live where you are accepted by the community.

No matter what sex offense charges you face, you need the help of an experienced defense attorney. Call 813-440-2347 for a free consultation with O’Brien Hatfield, P.A..

Rape

Under Florida law, rape goes by the name “sexual battery.” Florida law defines sexual battery as: “Oral, anal, or vaginal penetration by, or union with, the sexual organ of another or the anal or vaginal penetration of another by any other object; however, sexual battery does not include an act done for a bona fide medical purpose.”

A sexual battery conviction will be accompanied by harsh criminal penalties such as:

  • The possibility of life imprisonment or death for an adult committing sexual battery against a person under the age of 12 (possibility of life sentence for someone under the age of 18)
  • A prison sentence up to 30 years for sexual battery against a person 12 years of age or older without consent

Exposing Sexual Organs (Indecent Exposure)

This charge covers the act of exposing oneself to another person publicly or privately in a way that can be seen by the public. This is a first-degree misdemeanor that can result in a punishment of up to one year in jail.

Committing An “Unnatural And Lascivious Act”

The actual acts that can lead to this charge are not clearly defined by the law, but charges are often leveled in cases where someone is accused of committing a sexually offensive act in front of another person or out in public. This second-degree misdemeanor can result in punishment of up to 60 days in jail.

An Experienced Defense Attorney Can Protect You

If you are facing these or other sexually related charges in Tampa or anywhere in Florida, you can rely on the team at Mark J. O’Brien, to fight for your rights. Contact us for your free initial consultation.