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Sex and human trafficking are some of the most serious sex crimes someone can be accused of and could result in devastating consequences for those who are convicted. A guilty verdict could mean lengthy prison sentences, registering as a sex offender, and ruined personal relationships.
Our team of dedicated sex crimes attorneys has experience in sex and human trafficking cases. These types of cases are the most challenging and carry emotionally charged legal issues. Our role as your legal advocate is to defend your reputation, ensuring that justice is served in a fair and balanced manner. Call today to work with a St. Petersburg sex and human trafficking lawyer.
Sex trafficking refers to the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion, with the primary goal being sexual activities. The federal law, specifically the Trafficking Victims’ Protection Act (TVPA), defines sex trafficking as a commercial sex act by force, fraud, or coercion, or if the person involved in such activities is under 18 years of age.
The state law mirrors these definitions and imposes severe sanctions on any person found guilty of sex trafficking, including unlimited imprisonment periods. Human trafficking, which encompasses other forms of exploitation for labor or services using similar means of coercion, presents equally robust frameworks. State and federal laws similarly focus on prosecution, protection of victims, and prevention measures. A St. Petersburg attorney can help craft a defense for someone accused of sex and human trafficking.
In many cases, the prosecution of sex and human trafficking often relies on the gathering and presentation of evidence. Often, such evidence may include victim testimony, digital and physical evidence of coercion and abuse, surveillance videos, and photos. In addition, other evidence may emerge from related activities and undercover and sting operations conducted by authorities.
It is essential for the St. Petersburg defense lawyer to challenge the reliability and admissibility of the evidence and expose any vulnerabilities, deficiencies, and weaknesses in the sex trafficking case. Called-upon experts may include psychologists to testify on the possibility of false memories and the impacts of trauma on subject testimonies.
The strength of the defense is often in connection with the alleged defendant’s constitutional rights. Some constitutional rights are the right to a fair trial and evidence obtained through legal search warrants, not in violation of any constitutional rights or laws. Other rights include the right of the defendant to confront and cross-examine all prosecution witnesses.
Florida and federal laws have severe penalties for sex trafficking offenses; sentencing may vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Our St. Petersburg attorneys are thoroughly familiar with the sentencing guidelines and can explore ways to mitigate an accused person’s penalties for a conviction.
Our team can use a variety of defenses to help mitigate a defendant’s consequences from a conviction. Some of these defenses could include the following:
We can also advocate for alternative sentencing that may be more favorable, such as a rehabilitation program.
In recent years, the legal framework around sex and human trafficking has undergone rapid development. Including increased penalties, protection for witnesses and victims, and other approaches that closed loopholes and broadened prosecutors’ and defendants’ possibilities. For example, Florida in 2024 saw a wave of new laws, including HB 1545, that criminalize harmful communication with minors. HB 1131 funds online sting operations to catch predators. This situation significantly changes the tactics and techniques of prosecutions.
Paying attention to these changes is essential to assist the defense attorney in building a relevant and effective strategy. The public mood often shapes legislative trends and changes, and many new bills and initiatives can accompany such shifts. Therefore, attorneys who understand the broader legal context and trends are essential to your defense.
Our St. Petersburg sex and human trafficking lawyers know the changes in the relevant laws that can significantly impact people’s lives. We provide clients with zealous representation. This means understanding our clients’ perspectives, keeping an eye on changing legislation and public policy, and investigating potential defenses. Call today to schedule a consultation and get started on your case.