Category Archives: Sex Crime
Florida Appeals Court Clarifies Double Jeopardy in Sexual Offense Cases
When someone faces multiple charges arising from the same criminal incident, double jeopardy often comes up as a big concern. The Florida Fifth District Court of Appeals recently tackled this issue in Oliver v. State, and its decision helps clarify when prosecutors can get separate convictions for sexual battery and unlawful sexual activity with… Read More »
Mistakes To Avoid When Facing Charges of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation in Florida
Facing a lewd and lascivious molestation charge in Florida can be overwhelming. If convicted, you’re looking at the possibility of lengthy prison time, lifetime sex offender registration, and serious damage to your reputation, your career, and your relationships. If you’ve been arrested or you’re being investigated, there are a few common mistakes to avoid…. Read More »
Florida Appeals Court Upholds Limited Courtroom Closure in Child Sexual Abuse Trial
Most criminal trials in Florida are open to the public, but sometimes judges need to close the courtroom, at least temporarily, to protect vulnerable people. A recent decision from Florida’s Third District Court of Appeal, Cordon v. State, explores how judges walk the line between a defendant’s rights and protecting child victims. In this… Read More »
Capital Sexual Battery vs Sexual Battery: Understanding the Difference in Florida
Florida takes sexual offense allegations very seriously. Two of the most serious charges in the state are sexual battery and capital sexual battery. Although they sound similar, the law treats these two crimes very differently with respect to the conduct involved, penalties, and sentencing. If you’re facing charges or just trying to understand Florida… Read More »
Capital Sexual Battery Charges and Jury Rights: What a Recent Florida Case Reveals
A conviction of capital sexual battery could lead to life behind bars, mandatory sex offender registration, and long-term effects on your job prospects, housing, and relationships. With so much at stake, courts carefully examine not just the evidence but also whether defendants receive all the legal protections granted by law. A recent Florida appellate… Read More »
When Can a Judge Revoke Probation Without a Jury? Lessons From a Recent Florida Sex Crime Case
If you’re on probation in Florida, especially for violent or sexual offenses, you really don’t want to mess up. People classified as Violent Felony Offenders of Special Concern (VFOSC) face some of the toughest rules out there. A recent case, Sanderson v. State, highlights what happens when probation gets violated and answers the big… Read More »
The Difference Between Sexual Battery and Lewd and Lascivious Battery in Florida
Florida takes sex-related crimes seriously, but not every charge is treated the same. People often confuse “sexual battery” and “lewd and lascivious battery.” Both involve unlawful sexual acts, but they differ in a few legal elements, such as the victim’s age, the type of conduct involved, and whether consent is relevant or not. In… Read More »
Crafting a Defense Against Capital Sexual Battery Charges in Florida
Getting charged with capital sexual battery in Florida is one of the worst legal situations you can find yourself in. Capital sexual battery usually means someone 18 or older is accused of committing sexual battery against a child under 12. If you’re convicted, you are looking at life in prison with no chance of… Read More »
How Criminal Defense Attorneys Handle Sting Operation Cases in Florida
Sting operations targeting people suspected of committing sex crimes against minors are a common law enforcement tactic. Usually, these operations involve undercover police officers posing as minors to catch individuals attempting to commit crimes such as traveling to meet a minor or possessing child pornography. Being caught in a sting operation can lead to… Read More »
Florida Child Pornography Convictions: Understanding the Limits of Federal Habeas Review
When found guilty of possessing or promoting child pornography in Florida, the legal proceedings don’t necessarily end after the trial and direct appeal. Many defendants try to contest their convictions through post-conviction motions and, ultimately, a federal habeas petition under 28 U.S.C. § 2254. A recent ruling from the United States District Court for… Read More »
