Miami-Dade County Sex Crime Lawyer

Defending Clients Facing Sex Crime Charges in Florida

Sex crimes are serious charges, carrying a negative impact on anyone accused of them, regardless of conviction. Sexual offenses are considered any sexual act against another person that uses force against their will. Unfortunately, in today's society, there are many accusations of sexual crimes that are unfounded and unwarranted. Being accused of a sex offense will require an experienced sex crime attorney in Miami who can help you sort through the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime and determine the best strategy for your defense.

When accused of a sex crime, you can expect severe repercussions that begin immediately, with suspicion from neighbors, co-workers, and even family. Our society has an extreme bias against anyone accused of a sex crime, especially if it involves a child. The skilled and dedicated legal counsel from The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A.  will provide a solid defense to help you combat these charges.

Have you been charged with a sex crime in south Florida? Call The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. today at (305) 504-6655 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our sex crime attorney in Miami!

Sex Crime Cases We Handle

There are many types of sex crimes someone can be accused of. Some of these include:

• Sexual assault
• Sexual battery
• Possession of child pornography
• Prostitution
• Rape
• Statutory rape
• Indecent exposure
• Pandering or the sale of pornography

Our team of sex crime attorneys in Miami also assists people facing charges related to internet solicitation, traveling to meet a minor, and sexual cyberharassment under Florida statutes. Miami-Dade law enforcement and prosecutors pursue these cases vigorously, making it crucial to have a strategy tailored to local processes. We understand the prosecution’s approach and investigate how local authorities gather evidence. Our preparation covers each stage—from pretrial hearings to proceedings in the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building—helping you navigate the Miami legal system step by step.

What is Considered Lewd & Lascivious Conduct in Florida?

In the state of Florida, lewd and lascivious conduct describes the crime of touching a child who is under the age of 16 inappropriately. These two words mean the same thing and involve the connotation of being lustful and wicked. When an act of this manner is committed against an innocent individual, especially under the age of consent, the accused will face severe penalties. These penalties will depend on the alleged victim's age and other factors.

Florida Statute Section 800.04 outlines how prosecutors charge lewd and lascivious conduct. Convictions carry mandatory prison time, restrictions on where someone can live, and court-ordered treatment. Miami-Dade County courts treat these allegations seriously, and judges work closely with prosecutors to move cases forward. Even first-time offenders can receive years of supervision and other long-term requirements tied to a conviction for this offense. If you want to know about the specifics of your case, consult with our sex crime lawyer in Miami.

Sex Offender Registry

One of the most devastating penalties someone can receive is registering as a sex offender. The sex offender registry is an online database with your name, age, physical characteristics, and details about the crime you committed. Since this lasts your lifetime, this can have a huge impact on finding a place to work and live. That is why you need the help of an experienced sex crime attorney in Miami, Attorney Eric M. Matheny.

After a conviction, Florida law usually requires registration as a sex offender, sometimes for a first offense. The registry affects many areas of life, including where someone may live or work in Miami-Dade County. Local authorities enforce special residency requirements, which can create additional challenges for people trying to rebuild their lives in Miami. Our sex crime lawyers in Miami consider these restrictions as we advise clients at every stage, making sure you know the practical impact of a registration requirement.

How the Miami Legal Process Handles Sex Crime Charges

Facing sex crime charges in Miami means working through a distinct set of local court procedures, beginning with arrest and continuing through court appearances and beyond. Following an arrest, most people have a bond hearing at the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building, where the court reviews factors like the seriousness of the charge and the risk of flight. Miami-Dade prosecutors quickly assign these cases to units that focus on sex offense charges. The earliest stages involve formal reviews of police investigations, lab results, and witness statements, all of which shape the case from the beginning.

Defense strategy in Miami courts often involves careful scrutiny of how law enforcement carried out the investigation and gathered evidence. These cases proceed swiftly in Miami-Dade County before judges and prosecutors who expect thorough preparation on both sides. The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. uses insights from past prosecutorial experience and local courtroom knowledge to help clients understand the process and anticipate the prosecution's moves in the South Florida courts.

Understanding Risks & Long-Term Impacts of a Conviction With Our Sex Crime Attorneys in Miami

Convictions for sex crimes in Miami-Dade County come with lifelong restrictions far beyond fines or incarceration. In addition to mandatory registry requirements, people can face rigid restrictions on where they live, limits on job options, and rules against living close to schools or parks in Miami neighborhoods. Florida law lets local governments put additional residency and work conditions in place, making South Florida one of the most regulated regions for someone with a sex crime conviction.

These judgments can also affect family life, relationships, and parental rights. Family courts in Florida weigh such convictions heavily when evaluating custody or visitation. After any sentence ends, the stigma can persist in Miami-Dade’s connected communities. Our firm of sex crime attorneys in Miami helps clients understand these broad and lasting consequences, so they can make informed choices and prepare for what lies ahead in the process.

Contact Our Sex Crime Attorney Today

It is essential to mount a strong defense against any sex crime charges. Penalties for conviction are severe, with fines, probation, and lengthy imprisonment possible. One of the most damaging and long-term consequences of a conviction is the requirement to register as a sexual offender on national registries, enabling anyone to see where you live, what crime you were convicted of, and when it occurred. This stigma attached to you for the rest of your life could drastically affect your lifestyle, including employment opportunities and where you can live.

Our office will work closely with you, committing to fight every step of the way for your defense. Our highly experienced Miami-Dade County sex crime attorney can work aggressively on your behalf, taking whatever steps necessary to prepare a strong defense.

Contact The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. today to schedule a FREE consultation with our sex crime lawyer in Miami-Dade County!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Difference Between Felony and Misdemeanor Sex Crimes in Florida?

Felony sex crimes cover more serious allegations, such as sexual battery or offenses involving minors, and often result in longer prison terms and stricter penalties. Misdemeanor sex crimes—including certain cases of indecent exposure—carry lighter sentences but can still have significant effects on your record and future opportunities.

How Quickly Should I Seek Legal Counsel After Being Accused?

You should reach out to a sex crime attorney in Miami as soon as you learn of an accusation or if you have been arrested. Prompt legal advice helps you protect your rights from the very beginning and avoid mistakes in dealing with the police or investigators. Acting fast can also give you more options for how the case proceeds.

Will My Case Always Go to Trial if I’m Charged With a Sex Crime in Miami-Dade?

No, not every sex crime case goes to trial in Miami-Dade. Many cases end by negotiation or agreement, especially after both sides review the available evidence and witness information. Your lawyer can explain likely outcomes based on your situation and the local court process.

Call us at (305) 504-6655 and schedule a confidential consultation with our sex crimes legal team in Miami.