If a child accuses you of a sex crime in Florida, the consequences can be immediate and severe—even before you get a chance to defend yourself.
Here’s what happens next—and why it’s critical to involve a defense lawyer immediately.
⚖️ What Happens After a Child Accuses You of a Sex Crime in Florida?
When a child accuses someone of a sex crime in Florida, law enforcement often takes immediate action before a full investigation is complete.
This may include:
Arrest (even without a warrant)
No-contact order with the alleged victim and minors
Seizure of electronics or personal items
Media notification and public records exposure
Bond hearings with strict conditions or denial of bond altogether
📢 Even if you’re completely innocent, the system often treats the accused as guilty until proven otherwise.
🕵️ How the State Builds Its Case
Florida prosecutors pursue sex crime allegations involving minors aggressively, relying on:
Child testimony (often via video or deposition)
Interviews by trained forensic interviewers
Medical exams or psychological evaluations
Digital evidence (texts, messages, online activity)
Hearsay exceptions for outcry statements
If DNA or physical evidence exists, the case may be fast-tracked toward formal charges or trial.
❌ You Should NOT Speak to Police or Child Protection Services
If you’re contacted by police, a detective, or a DCF investigator:
🚫 Do not answer questions—even if you “just want to clear things up.”
Anything you say can and will be used against you, often out of context. These agencies may already have enough to arrest you—and are looking to lock in your statements.
🛡️ What a Defense Lawyer Can Do Immediately
At Michael White, P.A., we take swift, aggressive action to protect your rights. Our first steps often include:
Demanding preservation of evidence
Preventing unlawful interviews
Hiring forensic experts and psychological evaluators
Interviewing defense witnesses
Fighting for bond and challenging no-contact orders
We understand that false accusations happen—especially in custody battles or high-conflict situations—and we know how to expose inconsistencies in a child’s account.
When a child accuses you of a sex crime in Florida, prosecutors may act quickly—but fast action from your lawyer can make the difference.
đź“ś What Are the Charges and Penalties?
At Michael White, P.A., we take swift, aggressive action to protect your rights. Our first steps often include:
Demanding preservation of evidence
Preventing unlawful interviews
Hiring forensic experts and psychological evaluators
Interviewing defense witnesses
Fighting for bond and challenging no-contact orders
We understand that false accusations happen—especially in custody battles or high-conflict situations—and we know how to expose inconsistencies in a child’s account.
Charges may include lewd or lascivious conduct under Fla. Stat. § 800.04
🔍 More Answers About Defending Against Child Sex Crime Accusations in Florida
âť“ Can I be arrested based on a child’s word alone?
Yes. Florida allows arrests based on a child’s accusation, especially when supported by forensic interviews or caregiver statements.
âť“ Will I be allowed to have contact with my own kids?
Possibly not. Courts often issue no-contact orders with all minors while charges are pending.
âť“ Can a child lie or be coached into making a false accusation?
It happens. We explore every possible motive for a false claim, including custody disputes, pressure from adults, or misunderstanding of behavior.
âť“ Can these charges be dropped?
If convicted, almost certainly. That’s why it’s critical to fight these charges from day one.
âť“ Will I have to register as a sex offender?
If a child has accused you of a sex offense in Florida, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a strategic defense team. At Michael White, P.A., we know how to challenge these cases without retraumatizing the alleged victim or alienating jurors.