Sex-Related Crimes

A basic concern of individuals accused of a sex crime is how a conviction may affect them later on. They are afraid that they may have to go to jail and they are worried about losing their jobs and being publicly humiliated by having to register as a sex offender. Even a misdemeanor sex crime conviction can result in maximum jail sentences of 60 days to a year, depending on the charge. In addition, Florida requires every person convicted of a sex crime to undergo DNA testing. This DNA is then entered into a database that the police keep on file in hopes of solving open criminal investigations.

Defending a sex crime is unlike just about any other criminal accusation.  Unfortunately, for many, especially those unjustly accused, the accusation alone of committing a sex offense can not only be embarrassing but possibly devastating to one's health, career, and family.  Being labelled a "pervert," or worse names, is a horrible experience and I do all I can to avoid having one be exposed to that sex offender designation.  Prosecutors are reluctant in child sex crimes cases in particular to release evidence.  Therapy or counselling sessions of the child are often far different than what actually happened, and is often only exposed through aggressive depositions.  The rules of evidence allow in hearsay, that would not normally be allowed in other case, further complicating the defense.  Furthermore, because of the VERY serious consequences, such as minimum of 25 years prison followed by probation for the rest of one's life, all the way up to straight life in prison, it is most important to have someone looking out for your best interests, and hire someone with the experience to fully understand what's at stake.

At the St. Petersburg, Florida, law office of Craig Epifanio, P.A., we know what is at stake and we will zealously fight for justice on your behalf. We have helped a significant number of clients — both adults and juveniles, overcome sex crimes accusations through diligent, focused and aggressive legal work, and we believe that we can build a strong defense on your behalf, too. In certain sex crime accusations, particularly those made against individuals with alternative lifestyles, there is often the potential for an entrapment defense. We will vigorously pursue this type of defense if the accusation is premised on police misconduct.

NEVER talk to the police without a lawyer present. Call (727) 528-1859 for your free initial consultation first. Contact us online.

A practicing criminal defense lawyer since 1997, attorney Craig A. Epifanio has gained extensive courtroom experience and focused his skills defending those accused of sex crimes, battery and other criminal offenses.

Underage sex is still a crime in Florida, but the law allows a judge to remove the sex offender designation in certain cases. The victim in these cases must be between 14 and 17, a willing participant in the sexual activity, and be no more than four years younger than the offender. Furthermore, the offense must be the only sex crime on the offender's record.

Attorney Craig A. Epifanio will not judge you. Rather, he will make sure that you understand your legal options and make sure you have an attorney that you can count on to zealously and skillfully fight on your behalf and at every turn.

Craig Epifanio, P.A., has successfully defended people accused of state and federal sex crime charges, including:

• Indecent exposure
• Illegal touching
• Park cases
• Lewd and lascivious conduct
• Sexual battery (forcible or date rape)
• Statutory rape
• Child molestation
• Sexual assault
• Internet offenses, including child pornography or sexting