Key Takeaway: Under Florida Statute §794.05, it is a second-degree felony for a person aged 24 or older to engage in sexual activity with a 16- or 17-year-old — even if the minor consented or initiated the activity. The charge carries up to 15 years in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and lifelong consequences. However,…
Continue reading ›Key Takeaway: Sexual battery in Florida covers any non-consensual oral, anal, or genital penetration. Specifically, the penalties range from a first-degree felony (up to life in prison) to a capital felony (death or life without parole) when the victim is under 12. Because these charges carry mandatory sex offender registration and potential life sentences, the…
Continue reading ›Key Takeaway: Florida requires anyone convicted of a qualifying sex offense to register as a sexual offender under §943.0435. Registration is lifelong, and the requirements are strict — you must report your address, employment, vehicles, email addresses, and internet accounts. Failure to register or update your information is a third-degree felony. However, incorrect designations can…
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How a Forensic Pathologist Challenged the Timing and Cause of Genital Injuries In sexual battery cases, prosecutors often present medical evidence as if it proves the crime occurred. A nurse examines the alleged victim, documents injuries, and concludes they are “consistent with forced sexual trauma.” But “consistent with” is not the same as “caused by.”…
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How a Forensic Psychologist Exposed a Coerced Confession from a Mentally Ill Child A confession is supposed to be the most powerful evidence the state can present. When a defendant admits to the crime, most jurors assume the case is closed. But not all confessions are what they appear to be. Some are coerced. Some…
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A criminal accusation can destroy a teaching career in hours. When allegations involve students—especially claims of sexual misconduct—school administrators act immediately, news outlets publish within days, and your professional reputation faces permanent damage. Even false accusations leave lasting scars. If you are a teacher under investigation in Tampa or Hillsborough County, you need a criminal…
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HB 777 Amends F.S. 787.025 | Effective October 1, 2025 A new Florida child luring law goes into effect on October 1, 2025. House Bill 777 amends Florida Statute 787.025, expanding the scope of child luring offenses and significantly increasing penalties. If you are accused under this statute in Tampa Bay, the risks are higher…
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F.S. 847.0135(4) | Online Sting Defense | Second-Degree Felony If law enforcement arrested you—or you believe you are under investigation—for traveling to meet a minor in Tampa, you need to act immediately. These cases typically begin with undercover sting operations where officers pose as minors online. Even before the State Attorney files charges, the damage…
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What to Do Right Now to Protect Your Future If you are reading this, a simple online chat may have turned into a moment of pure panic. You might have just realized the person you were messaging on a dating app or social media is underage. Their profile looked different, they lied about their age,…
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Can You Be Convicted on Your Word Alone? Understanding Florida Statute 92.565 and How to Fight Back Updated January 18, 2026 Key Takeaway In most criminal cases, a confession alone cannot convict you — the prosecution must first provide independent evidence that a crime occurred (corpus delicti). However, Florida Statute 92.565 creates a dangerous exception…
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