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Romeo & Juliet Law explained by a Tampa Criminal attorney

Romeo & Juliet Law explained by a Tampa Criminal attorney

The Romeo and Juliet law addresses penalties for consensual sexual relationships between teenage minors and young adults, and serves to remedy some of the worst consequences of a statutory rape conviction. A convicted individual may petition for removal from the sexual offender registry if they were required to register as a sexual offender solely on the basis of the statutory rape conviction, if they were no more than four years older than the victim of the offense, and if the victim was between the ages of 14 and 17 at the time of the offense.

Any minor charged with a sex crime faces serious criminal charges, but you can take action and get your son or daughter's life back. At the Florida Defense Group in Tampa, we can help you understand your options following a statutory rape conviction and seek to remove your child's name from Florida's sex offender registry.

Florida changes its statutory rape law, why?

If you qualify, a petition must be filed in the court where you were sentenced. The petition must specifically allege that all of the criteria for removal are satisfied, and that removal from the registry will not conflict with federal law. If everything is in order, and all of the procedural requirements are met, the judge may consider removal. Because of these detailed requirements and the fact that after a denial you are strictly prohibited from refiling, the assistance of an experienced attorney can make all the difference.

Avoid life as a convicted sex offender

As a minor, the last thing you want is a sex crime conviction on your record. In addition to immediate juvenile penalties and probation, you could have to register as a sex offender. With the right criminal defense, you can clear your record and avoid having to register as a sex offender.

Tampa Criminal Lawyers

In most cases, it is illegal for minors to have consensual sex in Florida. However, the state understands that there should be a distinction between Florida's statutory rape law and other, more severe sex crimes. At The Florida Defense Group in Florida, we can help you understand your options. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.

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