St. Petersburg Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Being accused of sexual abuse can be a deeply unsettling and challenging experience. The emotional and legal complexities of such allegations can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Our dedicated St. Petersburg sexual abuse lawyers are here to provide the strength and support you need during this difficult time.

At Goldman Wetzel, we understand every situation is unique and deserves a customized approach. Our goal is to alleviate some of your stress and empower you with confidence. Let our skilled sex crime defense attorneys advocate on behalf of your rights, provide clear guidance throughout each step, and put in the work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

How Is Sexual Abuse Defined in Florida?

Sexual abuse in Florida is defined under various statutes depending on the specific circumstances. These include:

• Sexual Battery: Defined under Florida Statute § 794, this involves non-consensual sexual activity with penetration and is commonly referred to as rape.
• Molestation: This involves intentional sexual touching or forcing a minor to touch in a sexual way, including touching on the breasts, genitals, or buttocks, or clothing covering these areas.
• Indecent Exposure: This is the intentional exposure of one’s sexual organs in a public place or in a manner likely to offend or alarm others. Penalties are more severe if the act is repeated or committed in the presence of a minor.

These offenses are taken very seriously, and even a single allegation can have far-reaching consequences. The legal definitions are broad and can encompass a range of behaviors. The complexities of sexual abuse laws mean that each case must be reviewed on an individualized basis, and a skilled St. Petersburg attorney is crucial to navigating these challenges.

Building a Defense for Sexual Abuse Cases

Our experienced St. Petersburg attorneys work closely on sexual abuse cases to develop a strong defense strategy. The specific details of your situation will determine our approach, but it often includes:

• Investigative Questions: We ask critical questions about your whereabouts at the time of the alleged abuse and identify any witnesses who can verify your location or activities.
• Consent and Relationship Dynamics: We examine the nature of the relationship between you and the alleged victim to determine if the sexual activity was consensual. This includes investigating prior interactions and any potential biases or motives of the accuser.
• Witness and Evidence Review: We carefully review witness testimony testimonies for credibility and consistency and analyze physical evidence such as DNA and forensic reports.

Other questions may be directed toward the accuser’s motives and biases, such as financial incentives, personal qualms, and ulterior motives. In Florida, the prosecution must prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. This high standard means the evidence must be convincing enough to leave no reasonable doubt in the jury’s minds. This standard is applied in all criminal cases and underscores the importance of a strong defense.

Request a Consultation With a St. Petersburg Sexual Abuse Attorney

Navigating sexual abuse allegations or charges requires skilled legal representation, compassionate support, and a thorough understanding of the legal process. Our St. Petersburg sexual abuse lawyers empower clients to make informed decisions and advocate effectively for their rights. Do not hesitate to contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.