Sexual crimes are treated very seriously by Florida law, and people who are convicted of crimes related to sexual misconduct often deal with the consequences for years. An employee of a Boca Raton tattoo parlor is facing allegations of sexual assault on a person under 18 years old, according to a report published by the Palm Beach Post. Authorities claim that a 50-year-old male employee inappropriately touched a teenager who was working at the parlor as an unpaid apprentice doing housekeeping around the shop. According to the report, the employee has been accused of sexual assault before but has never been arrested for a sexually-related crime in Palm Beach County.
Sex Crimes Can Have Long Term Consequences
Crimes related to sexual conduct are among the most stigmatized in our society. In many cases, even allegations of sexual misconduct can have a significant impact on a person’s personal and professional life. While this flies in the face of the maxim that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, it is a reality of which everyone accused of a sex crime should be aware.
A sex crime conviction becomes part of the public record and may require a person to register with the state as a sex offender, meaning that information about his or her offense will be readily available through the registry to anyone with an Internet connection. Having to register as a sex offender can negatively affect a person’s life in many ways, including the following:
- Make it more difficult to find employment;
- Create limitations as to where you can live;
- Damage your reputation in the community; and
- Create significant stress and anxiety when forming new personal relationships.
In many cases, a person who is convicted of a sex crime is required to register as a sex offender indefinitely. Because of the extremely deleterious effect that a sex crime conviction can have, it is critical for anyone facing allegations of sexual misconduct to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
An Attorney Can Often Help At Every Stage
It is important for people facing a sex crimes case to understand that a lawyer can help in many different ways. In some cases, allegations of sexual misconduct may arise prior to any legal action being taken. When this occurs, an attorney can protect your legal rights in any investigative process that may occur. In addition, in high-profile cases that receive media attention, an attorney can help influence the way in which your case is covered in a way that minimizes damage to your reputation. Should your case go to trial, retaining an experienced critical defense attorney is extremely important in maximizing your chances of obtaining a favorable result.
Contact A Boca Raton Criminal Defense Lawyer Today To Schedule A Free Case Evaluation
People who are accused of crimes related to sexual conduct are often facing significant legal penalties that could affect them for years. For this reason, it is crucial for anyone accused of a sex crime in Florida to retain an experienced Boca Raton criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys, call Lavalle, Brown & Ronan today at 888-646-1315.