Panama City Beach Statutory Rape Attorney

If you're facing statutory rape charges in Florida, you need a legal advocate who understands the nuances of the law and is committed to protecting your rights. At Albert J. Sauline, III Attorney at Law, our Panama City Beach statutory rape lawyer is here to provide you with the skilled guidance and representation you need during this challenging time.

Call Albert J. Sauline, III Attorney at Law, today at (850) 250-3426 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our statutory rape lawyer in Panama City Beach.

What is Statutory Rape?

Statutory rape happens when an adult engages in sexual activity with a minor who is below the age of consent, which in Florida is generally 18 years old. Even if the minor consents to the activity, the law does not recognize their ability to provide legal consent due to age. Therefore, statutory rape cases are not based on force or coercion but rather on the age difference between the parties involved.

Statutory rape is often classified into different degrees, with varying penalties depending on the specifics of the case. It is important to note that in Florida, the law takes a strict stance on this issue, and ignorance of the minor's age is not a valid defense.

What are the Penalties for Statutory Rape in Florida?

The penalties for statutory rape in Florida can be severe and life-altering. The consequences may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Criminal Charges: Conviction for statutory rape can lead to felony charges, which may result in a lengthy prison sentence.
• Sex Offender Registration: Offenders may be required to register as sex offenders, impacting their reputation, employment prospects, and living situation.
• Probation and Parole: In some cases, individuals may be subject to probation or parole, which imposes strict conditions and monitoring.
• Criminal Record: A statutory rape conviction will create a permanent criminal record, affecting future employment and educational opportunities.
• Restrictions on Personal Relationships: Individuals convicted of statutory rape may face legal restrictions on whom they can associate with, including their own children in some cases.

Defenses Against Statutory Rape Charges

Some of the potential defense strategies against statutory rape charges may include:

• Age Gap: In some instances, the age difference between the parties involved may be small, and this could be a viable defense.
• Consent: While consent is not a valid defense due to the minor's age, it can sometimes play a role in case specifics.
• Improper Identification: This may be a potential defense if there are doubts about the minor's true identity or age.
• Lack of Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence, including the lack of proof that the sexual activity occurred, is another crucial aspect of defense.

Contact Our Statutory Rape Lawyer in Panama City Beach Today

At Albert J. Sauline, III Attorney at Law, our Panama City Beach statutory rape attorney is committed to advocating for your rights, working tirelessly to build a solid defense, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your situation. Your future is at stake, and we are here to help.

Contact Albert J. Sauline, III Attorney at Law, today to get started with our Panama City Beach statutory rape attorney.