Orlando Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor Attorney

Under Florida Statute Section 794.05, unlawful sexual activity with a minor occurs when an individual who is 24 years or older engages in consensual sex with a minor who is 16 or 17 years old. Unfortunately, those accused of this sex offense may be found guilty even if you believed the minor was 18 or older. The minor's consent to sexual activity and your ignorance of his/her age is not a valid defense. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our Orlando sex crime attorneys are committed to protecting your legal rights and providing you with unsurpassed legal guidance. If you have been arrested for unlawful sexual activity with a minor or are under investigation, we urge you to contact our office immediately.

In Florida, engaging in sexual activity with a minor who is 15 years old or younger, regardless of whether the minor gives consent, is considered rape. Unlawful sexual activity, under Florida law, includes oral, vaginal, or anal penetration or union with the sexual organ of another. While it may be lawful for an individual who is between the ages of 18 and 23 to engage in sexual activity with a consenting minor who is 16 or 17 years old, without the minor's consent it is considered rape. These situations are complex, as are the laws that govern them in Florida. We will help you understand what you may be facing, and work toward positive results.

Any person accused of unlawful sexual activity with a minor is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Prosecutors must prove specific elements of a crime in order for an individual to be convicted. If all elements cannot be proven, you cannot be found guilty or convicted.

Because alleged offenders may not use ignorance of the minor's age or that he/she gave consent as a defense, it will be necessary to successfully argue that the claims against you are false, or that the prosecutor was unable to prove all of the elements of the crime.

We understand that these types of sex crimes are often difficult to defend, however we will use our experience, skill, and knowledge to develop the strongest defense possible on your behalf, working to protect you from harsh criminal penalties and loss of your freedom.

Considered a second-degree felony, this offense is ranked as a level 6 in terms of severity, and will leave those convicted facing harsh criminal penalties which include:

• Fines of up to $10,000
• Maximum of 15 years in prison
• Registration as a sex offender for 15 years following release from prison

It is important to note that anyone who has a prior criminal conviction may face increased or enhanced criminal penalties.

In Florida, all sex crimes are prosecuted vigorously. If you have been accused of unlawful sexual activity with a minor, your reputation, career, and freedom are in jeopardy. By calling the Orlando criminal defense lawyers at Adams, Luka, & Benton today, we can begin mounting a vigorous defense, working to undermine any evidence prosecutors may have and determine the most effective way to proceed in order to protect your future. We urge you to call us for a free consultation now at (407) 872-0307 or (352) 787-2101.