Probation for Sex Offenders

Sex crimes are serious offenses that can come with significant consequences for everyone involved. Florida police officers and prosecutors often approach these cases aggressively, looking to maximize the charges and penalties. That’s why it’s vital that a person suspected of or charged with a sex crime fight the charges head on with the help of an experienced Florida sex crime lawyer.

The potential penalties in sex crime cases are significant, whether the case involves indecent exposure and lewd and lascivious conduct charges or more serious allegations like child pornography and rape. A conviction comes with the threat of substantial money fines and prison time. That’s not to mention the social stigma that can come with having to register publicly as a sex offender — a legal status that can make it tough to find and keep a job.

In some situations, however, a person convicted of a crime may be able to avoid long stretches of time behind bars or get out early on probation. This alternative to incarceration allows a person to remain free so long as he or she abides by the terms of release. Whether it’s a viable option depends on the nature of the crimes and the person’s criminal history, among other factors.

Probation is a form of supervised release. That means you have to check in regularly with a probation officer, tell authorities where you will be living while on release and update them if you move to a new residence. You also have to abide by a curfew and complete mandatory sex offender training as a condition of your release.

A number of other restrictions may be imposed depending on the circumstances of the conviction. A person convicted of internet sex crimes, for example, may be required to stay off of the internet. Someone convicted of sex crimes against children, on the other hand, may be ordered to stay away from schools. Commonly, a sex offender who is granted probation is also forced to avoid contact with the victims.

If you don’t live up to these terms, you’re likely to be sent to prison. You’re also going to have a harder time getting another shot at probation.

If you or a loved one has been charged with—or is even suspected of—a sex crime in Florida, it’s vital that you seek the assistance of a seasoned criminal defense attorney. A lawyer can help build the strongest possible defense in the case. The earlier you seek legal advice, the better chance you have of avoiding a conviction or reducing the charges.

The Florida sex crime lawyers at Whittel & Melton represent clients throughout the Sunshine State who have been charged with a wide variety of offenses, including sexual assault, rape, internet solicitation and child pornography. Our attorneys work tirelessly to fight these charges. We have offices throughout the state, including in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and Pensacola. Contact us online or call 866-608-5529 for a free evaluation.