In Florida, crimes involving conduct deemed as lewd and lascivious make up a large number of different types of sex offenses. These offenses vary broadly, and courts in the state have trouble defining what constitutes lewd or lascivious behavior. People who are charged with offenses involving lewd and lascivious conduct can encounter problems because of the lack of a definition. If you are accused of a crime involving lewd and lascivious conduct, you should reach out to a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer at the law firm of Hassett & Associates. We can review what happened in your case and help you understand your legal options. Experienced Fort Lauderdale lewd or lascivious crimes lawyer Kenneth P. Hassett, Esq. has more than three decades of experience defending people charged with all types of crimes and is prepared to help you build the most aggressive defense strategy necessary to combat the charges against you.
What Are Lewd and Lascivious Crimes in Florida?
Many different offenses fall under the category of lewd and lascivious crimes in Florida. The offense severity and its penalties vary based on multiple factors, including whether a minor was involved.
The following are some examples of lewd and lascivious crimes that can be charged in Florida:
- Lewd/lascivious battery
- Lewd/lascivious molestation
- Lewd/lascivious conduct
- Lewd/lascivious behavior
- Lewd/lascivious exhibition
Since these offenses are classified as sex crimes, simply being accused of them can greatly impact your reputation, career, and your interpersonal relationships. People who are facing these types of charges should seek help from Fort Lauderdale lewd or lascivious crimes lawyer Kenneth P. Hassett as soon as possible to begin building a strong defense.
Penalties for Lewd and Lascivious Criminal Convictions
The penalties for the different types of lewd and lascivious crimes vary based on the age of the victim and the alleged offender. Under § 800.04, Fla. Stat. (2022), lewd and lascivious molestation involving minors carries the following penalties.
When the offender is older than 18 and the victim is between the ages of 12 and 16:
- Second-degree felony
- Up to 15 years in prison
- Fine of $10,000
When the offender is older than 18 and the victim is younger than 12:
- Life felony
- Prison for life or from 25 years to life
- $15,000 fine
When the offender is younger than 18 and the victim is between 12 to under 16:
- Third-degree felony
- Up to five years in prison
- $5,000 fine
If the offender is under age 18 and the victim is under age 12:
- Second-degree felony
- Up to 15 years in prison
- $10,000 fine
Other lewd and lascivious crimes against adults might carry varying penalties. If you are convicted, you will have to register as a sex offender for life.
Talk to a Fort Lauderdale Lewd or Lascivious Crimes Lawyer
If you are facing any type of lewd and lascivious criminal charge, you should schedule a consultation with Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer Kenneth P. Hassett of Hassett & Associates. Attorney Hassett has helped many people charged with serious crimes achieve favorable resolutions to their cases, including pleas to lesser offenses, dismissals, and not-guilty verdicts. Talk to us today by calling (954) 791-3939.