Being falsely accused of a sex crime in Florida is a terrifying and life-altering experience. Even without a conviction, the mere accusation can damage your reputation, career, relationships, and mental health. If you’ve found yourself in this position, here’s what you need to know—and do—immediately to protect your future.
🧠 Stay Calm and Do Not Contact the Accuser
Your instinct may be to clear things up by talking to the person who made the allegation. Don’t.
Contacting the accuser can be twisted into evidence of guilt, intimidation, or even tampering. Any communication could be used against you.
📵 Do Not Speak to Law Enforcement Without Legal Counsel
Whether you’re approached casually or formally arrested, do not give a statement without your lawyer present. Police may say it’s “just a few questions,” but even innocent answers can be misinterpreted.
🛑 Remember: “Anything you say can and will be used against you.” That applies even if you’re innocent.
📲 Preserve Evidence – It May Save You
Text messages, emails, social media posts, location data, or even surveillance footage may contradict the accusation or prove your innocence.
- Screenshot messages
- Save call logs
- Backup GPS history
- Preserve witness contact info
Your attorney can subpoena additional digital evidence if needed—but only if it still exists.
💥 Understand the Stakes
False accusations of sex crimes in Florida can result in:
- Felony charges
- Sex offender registration
- Mandatory prison sentences
- Lifetime consequences, even without a conviction
Learn more about the types of sex crimes in Florida and their penalties.
⚖️ How We Challenge False Accusations
At Michael White, P.A., we’ve successfully defended clients by:
- Uncovering inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements
- Presenting digital timelines that contradict claims
- Identifying motives for false allegations (revenge, custody battles, etc.)
- Filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Using expert witnesses (psychologists, digital forensics, medical professionals)
❗ Things That May Impact Your Case
Some accusations arise from deeply emotional or chaotic situations. Certain factors can complicate or bias investigations, including:
- 🚑 Trauma from consensual encounters misinterpreted as assault
- 🧠 Mental health conditions of the accuser
- 🍺 Alcohol or drug use clouding memory
- 🏠 Domestic disputes, breakups, or custody fights
📍 Serving Fort Lauderdale and All of South Florida
Michael White, P.A. defends clients across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties. As a former prosecutor, Attorney White understands how these cases are built—and how to dismantle them.
🔍 More Answers About Defending False Sex Crime Accusations in Florida
❓ Can I be arrested even if there’s no evidence?
Yes. In Florida, an accusation alone can lead to an arrest. That’s why legal help is critical from day one.
❓ What if I already spoke to police?
Tell your attorney immediately. It may still be possible to limit the damage or challenge the admissibility of your statement.
❓ Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Not if you’re acquitted, or if charges are dropped or reduced to non-registerable offenses.
❓ Can I sue someone for making a false accusation?
Possibly—but criminal defense comes first. Once resolved, your lawyer can advise you on defamation or malicious prosecution options.
❓ Can I seal or expunge my record?
If charges are dropped or you’re acquitted, you may be eligible. Learn about sealing and expungement in Florida.