SEX CRIMES

There are few crimes that can damage one's reputation and chances for a peaceful future as much as a sex crime. The conviction of a comparatively minor offense can have major consequences; the implications of which can follow you for the rest of your life.

Sex crime laws in Florida cover an extremely broad spectrum of conduct. From some of the toughest Internet child pornography laws in the nation to archaic 'non-reproductive sex offense' laws and sex offender registration violations, understanding the law is the realm of expert legal professionals. Our attorneys are well-versed in all types of sex crimes in South Florida. We have lawyers who were former sex crimes prosecutors.

Obviously, having an attorney who knows the inner workings of the prosecutors sex crimes unit can be an advantage for you and your defense. your best chance at avoiding maximum penalties, arrest and conviction.

Capital sexual battery is the act of engaging in sex with a minor under the age of 12. A conviction for this offense carries a sentence of life in prison without the chance for parole. Neither ignorance of the victim's age nor gaining his/her permission is an acceptable defense in either case. Other sex crimes carry severe penalties as well. These include prison and/or sex offender probation.

12,487 sex offenses were reported in 2008 statewide:

• Forcible sex: 2,976
• Non-forcible sex: 3,452
• Prostitution/commercialized sex: 6,059

744 sex offenses were reported in Palm Beach County:

• Forcible sex: 135
• Non-forcible sex: 264
• Prostitution/commercialized sex: 345

All too often, those accused of committing sex crimes are actually unwitting victims of retribution by the false accusations of former partners or spouses. We have the experience to aggressively defend against such cases.

If you feel you have been falsely accused, do not speak to the police and do not submit to a polygraph or other test. Getting legal representation from Perlet & Shiner, P.A., before you are contacted by the police can help you avoid arrest or charges altogether.

If you have been arrested, are under investigation or are being questioned regarding an alleged sexual offense, do not speak to anyone before you have consulted an experienced, trusted criminal defense attorney. Our attorneys will work to protect your privacy and your rights. Avoiding sex offender or sex predator registries is our priority in Palm Beach County sex crimes arrest cases.

Perlet & Shiner, P.A., represents and defends these types of cases in Jupiter, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton surrounding areas.