What to Do If You’ve Been Accused of a Sex Crime in Florida

Being accused of a sex crime in Florida is a serious and life-altering event. The consequences can be severe, and it’s crucial to know how to protect yourself legally and personally. Here are essential steps to take if you find yourself in this situation.

Remain Calm and Avoid Confrontation

The first thing to do is to remain calm. Avoid any confrontation with the accuser and do not try to explain or justify your actions. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it is best to stay silent and avoid any interactions that could escalate the situation.

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

You have the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. Do not speak to law enforcement officers or anyone else about the accusations without legal representation. Politely inform the officers that you wish to exercise this right and that you will not answer any questions without an attorney present.

Seek Legal Representation Immediately

One of the most critical steps is to seek legal representation immediately. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in sex crime cases. They will guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your case. Florida Statute §794.011 outlines the legal parameters for sex crimes, and an experienced attorney will be well-versed in these laws.

Avoid Discussing the Case

Do not discuss the case with friends, family, or on social media. Anything you say can be used as evidence against you. Maintain confidentiality and only discuss the details of your case with your attorney.

Gather and Preserve Evidence

Start gathering any evidence that could support your defense. This may include:

• Text Messages and Emails: Save any communications that may be relevant to your case.
• Witnesses: Identify any potential witnesses who can testify on your behalf.
• Documentation: Collect any documents or records that could help establish your innocence or provide context to the allegations.

Understand the Charges Against You

Educate yourself about the specific charges you are facing. Sex crimes in Florida can include a wide range of offenses, from sexual battery to lewd or lascivious conduct. Each charge carries different penalties, and understanding the details of the accusations will help you and your attorney build a strong defense.

As the famous jurist Learned Hand once said, “The spirit of liberty is the spirit which is not too sure that it is right.” This quote highlights the importance of a fair and just legal process, where every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Consider a case where an individual was wrongfully accused of a sex crime due to a misunderstanding. By exercising their right to remain silent and promptly securing legal representation, they were able to gather evidence, including exculpatory text messages and witness statements, which ultimately led to the charges being dropped. This example underscores the importance of taking the right steps immediately when faced with such serious accusations.

The key takeaway is that being accused of a sex crime in Florida requires immediate and careful action. By remaining calm, seeking legal representation, and gathering evidence, you can protect your rights and build a strong defense.

If you have been accused of a sex crime in Florida, it is crucial to act quickly and seek experienced legal representation. Contact Roy Kahn, P.A., at 305-358-7400 or email rjk@roykahnpa.com for expert legal advice and defense. With over 35 years of experience, our team is committed to defending your rights and ensuring a fair legal process.