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Unnatural or Lascivious Acts Defense in Orlando, FL
Unnatural or Lascivious Acts
Unnatural or Lascivious Act Defense Attorney in Orlando, FL
Charges involving an unnatural or lascivious act can be confusing, embarrassing, and stressful. Florida law defines this offense broadly, and it is often used in cases involving alleged inappropriate sexual behavior or as a lesser charge in more serious sex crime prosecutions. If you are facing allegations under Florida Statute § 800.02, it is essential to speak with an experienced Orlando sex crime attorney as soon as possible.
At Hanlon Law, Orlando criminal defense attorney Will Hanlon has decades of experience defending individuals accused of sex-related offenses. He understands how these cases are prosecuted and works strategically to protect your rights, reputation, and future.
Understanding Unnatural or Lascivious Acts Under Florida Law
Florida Statute § 800.02 makes it a crime to commit an unnatural or lascivious act with another person. To obtain a conviction, the prosecution must prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
The statute itself is intentionally broad.
- “Unnatural” generally refers to conduct not in accordance with normal or accepted behavior.
- “Lascivious” refers to actions committed with lustful, wicked, unchaste, or licentious intent.
Historically, this statute was used to criminalize private conduct that would no longer be prosecuted today. In modern cases, charges under § 800.02 most often involve public sexual activity, such as alleged conduct in parks, parking lots, or other public spaces.
Certain conduct is explicitly excluded under the law. For example, a mother breastfeeding her child does not constitute a violation of this statute.
Penalties for an Unnatural or Lascivious Act Conviction
An unnatural or lascivious act is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida. A conviction may result in:
- Up to
60 days in jail
- A fine of up to
$500
- A permanent criminal record
While the penalties are less severe than felony sex crimes, a conviction can still negatively impact employment, professional licensing, and personal reputation.
Lesser-Included Offense in Sex Crime Cases
In many cases, an unnatural or lascivious act charge arises as a lesser-included offense of more serious felony allegations. This offense may be used in plea negotiations involving charges such as:
- Lewd or lascivious battery
- Lewd or lascivious molestation
- Lewd or lascivious conduct
- Lewd or lascivious exhibition
- Indecent assault in the presence of a child
- Exposure of sexual organs
- Lewd or lascivious offenses involving elderly or disabled individuals
Because these offenses are felonies, prosecutors may sometimes agree to dismiss the higher-level charge in exchange for a plea to an unnatural or lascivious act—particularly when evidence is weak or the case presents proof challenges.
An experienced defense attorney can evaluate whether negotiating a reduction is in your best interest or whether the charge should be aggressively challenged due to the statute’s vague nature.
Defending Against Unnatural or Lascivious Act Charges
Every case requires careful analysis. Depending on the circumstances, defenses may include:
- Insufficient evidence to prove intent
- Conduct did not meet the legal definition of “unnatural” or “lascivious”
- Constitutional violations during arrest or investigation
- Lack of proof that the act occurred in a public setting
- Negotiation for dismissal or reduction of charges
At Hanlon Law, we evaluate the full scope of your case to determine the most effective strategy—whether that involves litigation, negotiation, or dismissal.
Speak With an Orlando Unnatural or Lascivious Act Attorney Today
Sex crime allegations can carry serious legal and personal consequences, including potential sex offender registration in some cases. The decisions you make early in the process can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Will Hanlon, founder of Hanlon Law, has defended individuals accused of sex crimes since 1994. He provides aggressive, knowledgeable, and personalized representation to clients throughout the Orlando area.
Call
Hanlon Law at
407-987-3836 or
contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. We also represent clients facing charges related to lewd and lascivious conduct, molestation, statutory rape, and other serious criminal offenses.
