Getting accused of a sex crime in Florida, such as molestation, can mean rapid ostracization in the community, even if the allegations were unfounded. Many molestation cases sprout from complex situations with convoluted family issues, too often resulting from fabricated or exaggerated allegations. If you’ve been charged with molestation in Florida, you’ll need a rock-solid defense team, such as Musca Law, to examine the evidence, ensure any false testimonies are thrown out, and effectively present your case to the courts.
Understanding Florida Molestation Laws
Florida Statute 800.04 defines lewd and lascivious molestation as the touching a person less than 16 years of age in a lewd and lascivious manner, or coercing a person under 16 years of age to touch the perpetrator in such a manner. Lewdness and lasciviousness, not clearly defined by the law, are generally considered as unchaste, unlawful indulgences of lust.
The penalties for molestation in Florida vary according to the ages of the parties involved. Make no mistake; all sex crimes involving children are considered felonies and incur severe penalties. In addition to prison time and exorbitant fines, if convicted, you’ll be required to remain in the sexual predator registration database for life. You absolutely do not want to handle this kind of case on your own; contact our experienced Florida sex crime attorneys who’ll combine their skills and extensive knowledge to craft a strong defense for you.
In Florida, molestation is prosecuted in several ways:
- Third Degree Felony – if the offender is under 18 and the child is between 12 and 16 years old, it’s labeled as a third degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines.
- Second Degree Felony – when the offender is over 18 and the child is between 12 and 16 years old, or when the offender was under 18 and the child was under 12, it’s considered a second degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
- Life Felony – if the offender is over 18 and the child is under 12, it’s prosecuted as a life felony, resulting in a possible sentencing of life in prison.
Shattering False Accusations If you’ve been charged with molestation, there’s no doubt that you’re consumed by fear and dread. By enlisting in the help of Florida defense attorneys equipped with hardcore defense tactics, you’ll have a greater peace of mind knowing that you’ve got advocates looking out for your best interests and fighting for your rights.
Sadly, false allegations of molestation are too often made against innocent people. Not only does this detract from legitimate cases, it ruins the lives and destroys the families of the wrongly accused. Many times, unsubstantiated allegations arise out of emotional backlashes and heated custody cases. Unfortunately, the public is too quick to assume the worst, which can instantly crumble your reputation, regardless of the validity of the charges. Musca Law Firm, which boasts over a dozen highly-skilled attorneys, has offices throughout Florida, including cities such as Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando, and Miami. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation at (800) Musca-Law. Working together, we’ll analyze your case, shred false evidence or accusations, and meticulously fight for a successful resolution.
