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Lewd and Lascivious Battery Lawyer in Orlando, Florida
Orlando Lewd and Lascivious Battery Lawyer
Experienced Defense for Lewd and Lascivious Battery Charges in Orlando, FL
Being accused of lewd and lascivious battery in Florida is a life-altering event. These allegations—sometimes referred to as statutory rape—carry severe criminal penalties and long-term consequences that can affect your freedom, reputation, and future. If you are under investigation or have been charged, you need an experienced Orlando lewd and lascivious battery lawyer on your side immediately.
At Hanlon Law, we understand how aggressively these cases are prosecuted and how high the stakes are. Our firm has decades of experience defending individuals accused of serious sex crimes, and we are committed to protecting your constitutional rights at every stage of the process.
Understanding Lewd and Lascivious Battery in Florida
Under Florida law, lewd or lascivious battery generally involves engaging in sexual activity with a minor who is 12 to 16 years old, or encouraging or forcing a minor under 16 to engage in certain sexual conduct. The statute defines “sexual activity” as vaginal, oral, or anal penetration, whether by a sexual organ or an object.
To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, including:
- The alleged victim’s age
- That sexual activity, as defined by statute, actually occurred
This is a high legal standard—but prosecutors are relentless in pursuing these cases.
Important Limitations on Defenses
Florida law places strict limits on what defenses are available in lewd and lascivious battery cases. For example:
- Consent is not a defense
- A belief that the alleged victim was 18 or older is not a defense
- The alleged victim’s sexual history or behavior is generally irrelevant
Because of these restrictions, defending against lewd and lascivious battery charges requires a strategic, evidence-focused approach by an attorney who understands Florida sex crime law in depth.
Potential Penalties and Felony Levels
Lewd and lascivious battery is typically charged as a second-degree felony, punishable by:
- Significant prison time
- Heavy fines
- Mandatory sex offender registration
In certain circumstances—such as when there are qualifying prior convictions involving minors—the charge can be elevated to a first-degree felony, which carries even harsher penalties.
These consequences do not end after sentencing. A conviction can permanently affect employment opportunities, housing options, and personal relationships.
Lewd and Lascivious Battery vs. Sexual Battery
Lewd and lascivious battery is not the same as sexual battery. Sexual battery involves nonconsensual sexual acts (rape). Lewd and lascivious battery, however, can be charged even when force is not alleged and even when the minor appears to agree. This distinction is critical—and often misunderstood.
Building a Strong Defense Strategy
Although these cases are difficult, effective defenses do exist. At Hanlon Law, we carefully examine every detail of the case, including:
- Whether the alleged conduct meets the statutory definition of “sexual activity”
- The credibility and consistency of allegations
- Possible false or exaggerated claims
- Constitutional violations, including illegal searches or interrogations
- Improper collection of digital evidence such as text messages or chat logs
In some cases, unlawfully obtained evidence can be suppressed. In others, it may be possible to negotiate reduced charges or pursue dismissal when the prosecution’s case is weak.
Speak With an Orlando Lewd and Lascivious Battery Attorney Today
If you are accused of lewd and lascivious battery, do not wait to get legal help. Early intervention can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case. The sooner you involve an experienced Orlando sex crimes lawyer, the more options you may have.
Will Hanlon, founder of Hanlon Law, has been defending the accused since 1994. He is known for providing aggressive, personalized representation and for standing firmly between his clients and the power of the State.
Call Hanlon Law at
407-987-3836 or complete our
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