Our country is going through incredible changes at the moment. Much of this is the result of the #MeToo movement and other movements spotlighting a culture of sexual harassment and sexual abuse. The actions of perpetrators are being publicized like never before. But as important as the need for social change is, it’s also important to remember that people are innocent until proven guilty. Just because someone is accused of a crime doesn’t mean they’re automatically guilty.
Below, we discuss how a person can defend against false accusations of rape or sexual battery. Please note that this article is for educational purposes only. If you’ve been accused of a sex crime and are unsure of where to turn, a sex crimes attorney in St. Petersburg with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan can assist you.
A Staunch Legal Defense
What you’re doing right now (educating yourself) is the perfect first step to defending yourself: We encourage you to research the legal process you will be going through as well as potential outcomes you might experience. However, online resources will only take you so far. In order to defend against a sexual battery charge, you will need a legal team on your side.
Related: Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Overcome Your Charges With a Sex Crimes Attorney
At Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan, we can review the specifics of your case to determine the best course of action. In some cases, that will mean fighting to prove our client’s innocence. In others, it could mean arguing that our client’s conduct was mitigated. Even in cases where the evidence for the State is strong, our team can negotiate with prosecutors to seek a reduction to a lesser charge or for less severe penalties. This is crucial considering the strict penalties for those convicted of sexual battery or other sexually violent or sexually motivated offenses.
A Sex Crime Conviction May Follow You for the Rest of Your Life
It’s important to understand the gravity of your situation. An adult who commits sexual battery on another adult commits a second-degree felony punishable by up to fifteen years in prison and a $10,000 fine. And unfortunately, the battle for innocence doesn’t end after a person has served their prison sentence. A sexual battery conviction can follow someone for the rest of their life.
Related: What You Should Know About Sex Offender Registration in Florida
In the state of Florida, most individuals convicted of a sex crime are required to register as sex offenders, a designation that follows them for at least 25 years. This doesn’t even begin to cover the scrutiny that a person can receive from friends, family members, potential employers, and society in general. In order to defend against groundless sexual battery accusations, reach out to a sex crimes attorney in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan. We believe in your innocence and are willing to fight to secure it.
For a free consultation with a sex crimes attorney in Clearwater, please contact Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.