Florida has strict laws about consent in sexual relationships. Being charged with breaking those consent laws can put someone on the sexual offender registry, which can have lifelong impacts. However, Florida’s “Romeo and Juliet” law covers special circumstances if both parties are close enough in age. But who does the Romeo and Juliet law apply to? And how does it reduce legal consequences for those involved? From the experts at Mike G law, here’s what you need to know about Florida’s Romeo and Juliet law. Understanding the Age of Consent in Florida In Florida, the age of consent is 18. It is illegal for anyone to engage in sexual activity with a minor, who is defined as anyone under the... Read More »
Most states have laws to ward off citizens from hiring prostitutes, a profession which is illegal in all 50 states. Basically, by punishing the Johns that solicit sexual services, the state aims to somehow curb that industry (whether that’s working is another story). Regardless of whether you think escort services should be legal or not, understanding solicitation laws in Florida can help keep you out of jail. In this article, we’ll cover the actual meaning of solicitation in Florida, what it entails and what can happen if you’re charged with solicitation. For the most up-to-date legal advice, however, you should contact Mike G Law. What is Considered Solicitation in Florida? In the state of Florida, solicitation is fairly clear and... Read More »
Being charged with rape can ruin your life. Even if you’re found not guilty, people may treat you differently. Case in point: Kobe Bryant. Talk of his untimely death in a helicopter accident inevitably led to a rehashing of rape charges stemming from a 2003 allegation. The case was dropped because the alleged victim refused to testify. He was never tried for sexual assault (though he did settle a civil lawsuit with the alleged victim), however, he was quickly labeled a rapist. Even after his death, there are plenty of articles about the alleged crime despite the case being dropped. And that’s a man with millions in the bank. How can a regular Joe fight rape charges? Rape, or sexual... Read More »
Florida sex crimes are covered under multiple statutes and under different names than what we may expect. While most people understand what sexual assault or statutory rape is, what is meant by lewd and lascivious behavior is a bit unclear because of its name. Here’s what you need to know about lewd and lascivious behavior and the crimes that fall under it. What is Lewd and Lascivious Behavior? Lewd and lascivious behavior, at its most basic, is inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature where the victim is someone under 16 years old. Florida Statute 800.04 divides lewd and lascivious behavior into four categories: Lewd and Lascivious Battery (sexual activity with a child under 16 or forcing a child under 16... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Sex Crimes, Sex Offenses on Wednesday, October 3, 2018
Some defendants are initially shocked when charged with unlawful sexual contact with a minor, or statutory rape as it is commonly called. They may be surprised because they believed their partner was older or because their partner gave their consent. However, the law is clear on what defines statutory rape in Florida and who can and cannot consent to sexual activity. If you are trying to make sense of your statutory rape charge in Florida, hiring a skilled defense attorney is key. A statutory rape conviction can have lifelong consequences and it’s important that you receive the best legal counsel so you can put forward the best defense for your case. The following are some frequently asked questions regarding what... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Sex Offenses on Friday, March 9, 2018
When a person is charged with a sexual offense, it feels like the end of the world. They are overcome with feelings of shame and despair. They feel they have let their families and everyone down. Society holds sex offenses to be the most reprehensible of all criminal types. The news reverberates through the community, affecting relationships, employment and school. Our advice to you if you are in this situation: Pull yourself together. It may feel like the end of the world, but it doesn’t have to be. Good defense can still clear your name, or minimize the harm done to you and your reputation. The most successful approaches include: ‘ I didn’t do it ’ False claims are often... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Sex Offenses on Monday, February 29, 2016
WHAT ARE THE BASIC REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR SEX OFFENDERS AND PREDATORS, INCLUDING JUVENILE OFFENDERS? Sexual offenders must complete a registration form at their county sheriff’s office either twice a year (birth month and every 6th month thereafter) or four times a year (birth month and every 3rd month thereafter) depending upon their offense. For a list of qualifying offenses for quarterly registration please refer to Florida Statute 943.0435(14)(b). Sexual predators, some sexual offenders, and juvenile sexual offenders must report four times a year (birth month and every 3rd month thereafter). Sexual offenders/predators must update their driver license or identification card within 48 hours after any change to their residence (permanent, temporary, or transient) or name. Sexual offenders/predators MUST maintain registration... Read More »
