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Lewd and Lascivious Sex Crime Defense in Orlando, FL
Lewd and Lascivious Sex Crime
Defense Lawyer for Lewd and Lascivious Charges in Orlando, FL
Florida law aggressively prosecutes sex crimes involving minors, and lewd and lascivious offenses carry some of the harshest penalties in the criminal justice system. A conviction can result in lengthy prison sentences, lifetime sex offender registration, and irreversible damage to your reputation and future.
At Hanlon Law, Orlando sex crimes attorney Will Hanlon provides experienced, strategic defense for individuals accused of lewd and lascivious battery, molestation, conduct, or exhibition. With decades of criminal defense experience, our firm understands the complexity of these cases and what is at stake for your freedom and livelihood.
Understanding Lewd and Lascivious Crimes in Florida
Lewd and lascivious crimes involve alleged sexual conduct toward or involving a minor with an intent that is considered lustful, indecent, or immoral under Florida law. These charges are serious felony offenses, and neither consent nor a belief that the minor was an adult is a valid defense.
Lewd and Lascivious Battery (Statutory Rape)
Lewd and lascivious battery occurs when an individual:
- Engages in sexual activity with a minor between the ages of 12 and 16, or
- Encourages a minor under 16 to participate in sexual activity, including prostitution or other prohibited acts
This offense is classified as a second-degree felony, punishable by up to:
- 15 years in prison
- 15 years of probation
- $10,000 in fines
In most cases, a conviction also requires mandatory sex offender registration, unless the narrow Romeo and Juliet exception applies.
Lewd and Lascivious Molestation
Molestation charges involve touching a minor’s private parts in a lewd or lascivious manner. Penalties depend heavily on the ages of both the accused and the alleged victim.
- If the accused is an adult and the child is under 12, the charge may be a life felony, carrying a possible life sentence.
- If the child is between 12 and 16, and certain prior convictions exist, the offense may be charged as a first-degree felony.
These are among the most severe criminal charges in Florida and require an immediate and aggressive defense strategy.
Lewd and Lascivious Conduct
Lewd and lascivious conduct may be charged when an individual:
- Touches a minor in a lewd or lascivious manner without touching private parts, or
- Solicits a minor under 16 to engage in a lewd or lascivious act
This offense is typically charged as a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, sex offender probation, and significant fines.
Lewd and Lascivious Exhibition
A person may be charged with lewd and lascivious exhibition for:
- Exposing their genitals to a minor in a lewd manner, or
- Masturbating in the presence of a minor under the age of 16
These offenses are usually charged as second-degree felonies and can also result in sex offender registration upon conviction.
Defending Against Lewd and Lascivious Allegations
Every case is unique, and an experienced Orlando sex crimes lawyer can identify defenses that may significantly impact the outcome of your case. Potential defense strategies may include:
- Challenging the credibility or reliability of witnesses
- Demonstrating insufficient or inconsistent evidence
- Identifying constitutional violations, such as unlawful searches or improper interrogations
- Presenting an alternative explanation of events or misinterpretation by the alleged victim
- Negotiating a reduced charge or plea agreement that avoids sex offender registration when possible
Attorney Will Hanlon carefully evaluates every detail to protect your rights and pursue the strongest possible defense.
Speak with an Orlando Lewd and Lascivious Crimes Lawyer Today
If you are facing allegations of a lewd and lascivious offense in Orlando, time is critical. These cases move quickly, and early legal intervention can make a substantial difference in the outcome.
Will Hanlon has been defending criminal cases since 1994 and understands how to fight serious sex crime charges in Florida courts.
Call Hanlon Law at 407.987.3836 or complete our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.
Your future is too important to leave to chance. Let
Hanlon Law stand between you and the full force of the criminal justice system.
