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Defending Minors and Young Adults in Orlando, FL
Defending Minors and Young Adults
Protecting the Rights and Futures of Children Accused of Sex Crimes in Orlando, FL
When a minor or young adult is accused of a sex crime, the consequences can be life-altering. Florida has one of the highest rates in the nation for transferring juveniles into adult court, often at the sole discretion of prosecutors. According to Human Rights Watch, more than 12,000 children in Florida were transferred from juvenile court to adult court between 2009 and 2014—many for nonviolent offenses.
If your child is facing allegations such as lewd and lascivious conduct, sexting, or other sex-related offenses, it is critical to speak with an experienced Orlando sex crimes lawyer as early as possible. Attorney Will Hanlon has extensive experience defending minors and young adults and is committed to protecting their rights, freedom, and future.
Defense for Minors and Young Adults Charged With Sex Crimes
Prosecutors may use the threat of adult court prosecution to pressure young defendants into pleading guilty. However, scientific research consistently shows that minors and young adults are still developing emotionally and cognitively—often well into their mid-20s. Rehabilitation, not lifelong punishment, is frequently the more appropriate outcome.
Unfortunately, sex crime allegations often carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration. An experienced Orlando sex crimes attorney can evaluate the facts of the case and pursue every available defense strategy, including:
- Challenging the sufficiency of the evidence
- Identifying procedural or constitutional violations
- Negotiating reduced charges or alternative resolutions
- Seeking to keep the case in juvenile court whenever possible
Sexting, Lewd Conduct, and Child Pornography Allegations
Many sex crime cases involving minors stem from situations where a young person did not fully understand the legal consequences of their actions. For example, a single incident involving consensual activity or the exchange of explicit images can lead to serious charges such as lewd and lascivious molestation or child pornography offenses.
A conviction for these crimes may require lifetime sex offender registration. However, in certain situations, charges may be reduced to lesser offenses such as child abuse or sexting—crimes that do not require registration.
Under Florida law, a first-time sexting offense is a noncriminal violation and may result in:
- Eight hours of community service
- A $60 civil penalty
- Participation in a cybersafety program
Building a Strong Defense Against Sex Crime Allegations
In many cases, the prosecution may not have sufficient evidence to prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. A strong defense may include:
- Challenging the credibility or motives of the accuser
- Raising affirmative defenses such as entrapment
- Filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through unlawful searches or interrogations
Attorney Will Hanlon carefully examines every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and protect the accused from unjust outcomes.
Avoiding or Removing Sex Offender Registration
One of the most important goals in defending a sex crimes case is avoiding mandatory sex offender registration. Under Florida Statute § 943.04354, commonly known as the Romeo and Juliet Law, certain individuals may petition the court for removal from the sex offender registry if specific criteria are met, including:
- The victim was between 13 and 17 years old
- The age difference was no more than four years
- The conduct was consensual
- The offense is the only registrable sex offense on the individual’s record
An experienced Orlando sex crimes lawyer can determine whether this relief may be available and guide clients through the process.
Speak With an Experienced Orlando Sex Crimes Lawyer Today
If your child or young adult is under investigation or has been charged with a sex crime in Orlando, do not wait to seek legal help. Hanlon Law provides aggressive, compassionate defense for minors and young adults facing serious allegations.
Attorney Will Hanlon has been defending criminal cases since 1994 and is prepared to fight for your child’s future.
Call 407.987.3836 today or complete our
online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Orlando sex crimes lawyer.
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