Age Plays a Factor When Being Sentenced for a Sex Crime in Florida

When someone is being sentenced for a sex crime in Florida, age can play a big factor, in more ways than one. For instance, did you know that the age of the victim can result in a higher degree felony, or that the age of the defendant could, in some cases, stand to lessen the felony classification?

The laws in Florida are very precise regarding sexual assault. A lawyer in Miami Beach at Falk & Ross can explain the ways age can impact a potential sentence should a case result in conviction.

Impact of Age when Being Sentenced for a Sex Crime in Florida

When a defendant is under the age of 18, he or she may face lesser penalties than that of someone who is 18 or older and sentenced for the same sex crime. On the other end of the spectrum, someone sentenced for a sex crime against a victim less than the age of 16 can face higher penalties than someone convicted of the same crime against an older victim.

For example, according to the 2012 Florida Statutes, sexual battery with injury against someone 12 years or younger could mean a life felony (40 years to life imprisonment) for a defendant younger than 18. If the defendant is older than 18, the crime is classified as a capital felony, punishable by life in prison or death.

If you have concerns about how age can impact potential sentencing, it’s best not to leave things to chance. A sexual assault defense lawyer in Miami Beach at Falk & Ross can represent clients facing these charges.

Call a Defense Lawyer at Falk & Ross Today 

The team at Falk & Ross can help you through each stage of your criminal proceedings, whether you’re fighting charges, negotiating a plea deal or about to be sentenced for a sex crime conviction. We fight for our client’s rights and will represent you in the Florida courts. Call today to speak with a sexual assault defense lawyer in Miami Beach: 877-663-5110 or 305-741-6997.