Polk County Rape Defense Lawyer

Sexual Battery Charges in Lakeland

Rape is a serious crime, carrying harsh penalties and severe social stigma for anyone proven guilty. Chapter 794.011 of the Florida statutes details the punishments for rape under several specific circumstances. In our state, the legal system refers to rape as "sexual battery," the definition of which is " oral, anal, or vaginal penetration by, or union with, the sexual organ of another or the anal or vaginal penetration of another by any other object." Rape is a felony, with penalties ranging from a 5 year maximum sentence for some crimes and life imprisonment for others, while fines can reach $15,000.

An optional sentence which the judge in your case may choose to impose is medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) treatment. Also known as "chemical castration," this punishment is additional to any other penalty, and would not replace prison time or fines. Whatever specific sentence you receive, you will be required by law to provide your name, home address and photograph to the Florida Sexual Offenders and Predators Registry to post on their website. Your information, including details regarding your conviction, will be available to the general public, exposing you to broad social censure and potentially preventing you from finding gainful employment. Due to the extreme risk posed for your future, you need the support of an insightful Polk County criminal defense lawyer to help you protect your rights in and out of court.

Rape Defense Attorney in Lakeland

If you have been accused of rape, you probably have grave concern over your future. At the office of William D. Sites, Attorney at Law, you will receive compassionate legal representation to assist you in this difficult situation. Over more than 22 years, I have accumulated a reputation for successfully serving my clients on all types of criminal defense charges. I am a trial attorney, and I know what it takes to prepare a case to stand up in court and I am willing to do whatever I can to secure a successful outcome for you. There are several effective defenses for rape allegations, and when you come to my office, I will consult with you to determine what will be the best approach for clearing your name and protecting you from being convicted.

Contact a Polk County rape lawyer for support and aggressive defense against your charges.