Being charged with a sex crime is an overwhelming experience filled with uncertainty and fear. Society often rushes to judgment, vilifying individuals without understanding the facts or circumstances. In such a situation, you need more than a typical criminal defense lawyer; you need a skilled and compassionate team who will fight for you. At Goldman Wetzel, our attorneys are here to provide that defense.
We understand the unique challenges of defending against sex crime allegations. That is why our two lead attorneys work on every case together, bringing their combined experience and perspectives to craft the best possible defense. As a team, they focus on the details of your case, ensuring your side of the story is heard and understood. Whether you are facing accusations of lewd behavior or serious charges like child pornography or sexual assault, we are here to help. Reach out to us today to learn more about the benefits of a St. Petersburg sex crimes attorney.
Florida’s sex crime laws cover a wide range of offenses, from non-consensual touching to sexual assault and exploitation. Child-related offenses may not even involve direct contact, such as cases of possession of child pornography. The penalties for these offenses are steep, with mandatory minimum sentences and automatic registration as a sex offender. Unfortunately, these laws leave little room for understanding context or intent.
For instance, while Florida has Romeo and Juliet laws to account for consensual relationships between close-in-age partners, gaps in these protections can still lead to convictions. A consensual act between young partners can be reclassified as sexual assault if the ages fall outside the law’s narrowly defined limits.
Florida also enforces strict penalties for sex crimes, with many carrying mandatory prison sentences, sex offender registration, and lifelong restrictions. These restrictions can significantly impact a person’s ability to work, live where they choose, and maintain relationships. For example, registered sex offenders are often prohibited from living near schools or being around unrelated children, which can strain family ties and social connections.
A St. Petersburg sex crimes attorney can explore alternative strategies, giving you the benefit and opportunity to defend your name and future.
One of the most difficult hurdles in sex crime cases is overcoming prejudice. Despite the presumption of innocence, defendants often face dehumanization from law enforcement, prosecutors, and even juries. This bias can affect every stage of the legal process, from initial investigations to the final verdict.
At Goldman Wetzel, our St. Petersburg sex crimes attorneys treat every client with dignity and respect. We believe in looking beyond the accusations to see the person behind them. By taking a nonjudgmental and compassionate approach, we strive to ensure that every client’s humanity is acknowledged.
Our team’s proactive defense strategy includes thoroughly investigating allegations, scrutinizing evidence, consulting forensic experts, and interviewing witnesses. By understanding the full context of your case, we can build a robust defense tailored to your situation.
If you are facing sex crime allegations in Florida, do not face them alone. The stigma surrounding these charges requires a dedicated and experienced legal team to advocate for your rights. Our team is committed to ensuring that you receive a fair and just defense. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn more about the benefits of working with a St. Petersburg sex crimes attorney and take the first step toward protecting your future.