St. Johns County Sexual Battery Attorney

Aggressive Defense for Serious Sexual Battery Charges in St. Johns County, FL

Being accused of sexual battery is one of the most serious and life-changing criminal allegations you can face in Florida. A conviction carries severe penalties—including lengthy prison sentences, lifetime sex offender registration, and permanent reputational harm. If you are under investigation or have been charged, you need a seasoned defense attorney who understands both the complexity of Florida’s sex crime laws and the local court systems in St. Johns County.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we provide aggressive, strategic, and confidential representation for clients accused of sexual battery and related offenses throughout St. Johns County, including St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, and surrounding areas. We are available 24/7 to protect your rights and begin building your defense immediately.

Call (904) 474-3115 now to connect and take the next step toward protecting your rights and your future.

What Is Sexual Battery Under Florida Law?

Under Florida Statute §794.011, sexual battery—commonly referred to as rape or sexual assault—is defined as “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, without that person’s consent.”

This statute encompasses a wide range of non-consensual acts and emphasizes the legal importance of consent in every sexual interaction. The law also differentiates between varying degrees of severity based on factors such as the victim’s age, the use of force or weapons, and the accused’s relationship to the alleged victim.

Even an accusation—without a conviction—can have devastating personal and professional consequences. Early legal representation is crucial to protect your constitutional rights and prevent the prosecution from controlling the narrative.

Types of Sexual Battery Charges in Florida

Florida classifies sexual battery offenses by severity and circumstance. Depending on the facts of your case, charges can range from a second-degree felony to a capital felony, the latter carrying life imprisonment or the death penalty.

Capital Felony:

• Applies when an adult commits sexual battery on a child under 12 years old.
• Penalties: Life imprisonment without parole or, in extreme cases, the death penalty.

Life Felony:

• Applies when the accused is under 18 and the victim is under 12, or when aggravating factors are present such as use of a deadly weapon, infliction of serious injury, or the commission of another major felony (e.g., kidnapping).
• Penalties: Life imprisonment without parole.

First-Degree Felony:

• Applies to acts involving physical force likely to cause serious injury, multiple perpetrators, or threats of retaliation.
• Penalties: Up to life in prison.

Second-Degree Felony:

• Applies when the alleged act involves a victim aged 12 or older, without a deadly weapon or serious injury.
• Penalties: Up to 15 years in prison.

Regardless of the degree, every sexual battery charge requires an aggressive and informed legal response. The prosecution often relies on sensitive testimony, forensic evidence, and digital communications, all of which must be scrutinized and challenged by an experienced defense attorney.

Sexual Battery vs. Sexual Assault in Florida

Although many people use the terms “sexual assault” and “sexual battery” interchangeably, Florida law specifically uses the term “sexual battery.”

• Sexual Battery: Involves non-consensual sexual penetration or union and is charged as a felony under §794.011.
• Sexual Assault: Often used more broadly to describe unlawful sexual behavior, including attempted rape, unwanted sexual touching, indecent exposure, or lewd conduct.

Understanding this distinction is important because it influences both the charges filed and the potential penalties you face.

Fighting Sexual Battery Charges in St. Johns County

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we take an aggressive, evidence-driven approach to every case. We begin with a full case review—examining the prosecution’s evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with forensic experts. Our goal is to identify weaknesses, inconsistencies, or violations of your rights that can be used to have your charges reduced or dismissed.

Our defense strategies often involve:

• Challenging the credibility of witness testimony or alleged victims.
• Exposing inconsistencies in statements or timelines.
• Disputing DNA or forensic evidence collection methods.
• Proving consent or lack of intent.
• Demonstrating constitutional violations, such as unlawful searches or coerced confessions.

Our St. Johns County attorneys understand how local prosecutors pursue sexual battery cases and the evidentiary standards required in Florida courts. We use that knowledge to build a tailored defense that anticipates the prosecution’s moves and safeguards your future.

The Consequences of a Sexual Battery Conviction

In addition to prison time, fines, and probation, a sexual battery conviction in Florida typically requires lifetime registration as a sex offender.

As a registered sex offender, you must report your residence, employment, and contact information to law enforcement and update it any time you move. Failure to register or update your information can result in new criminal charges and further penalties.

The repercussions extend far beyond the courtroom. Registration severely limits where you can live and work and can affect your ability to maintain personal relationships, travel, or even use certain technologies. Because of these long-term consequences, defending against the charge as early and effectively as possible is critical.

Why Choose First Coast Criminal Defense

When facing charges of this magnitude, you need more than just legal representation—you need a team that understands how to protect both your rights and your dignity.

Clients in St. Johns County choose our firm for:

• Exclusive Focus on Criminal Defense: We dedicate our practice entirely to defending individuals accused of crimes in Florida.
• Local Experience: Our attorneys know the St. Johns County court system, its prosecutors, and its judges, giving you a vital edge in building your defense.
• Personalized Attention: We take a hands-on approach to every case, maintaining a limited caseload to ensure focused attention.
• Confidential, Nonjudgmental Support: We provide a safe, respectful space for clients navigating these difficult circumstances.
• 24/7 Availability: Criminal charges don’t follow business hours, and neither do we.

Our mission is to help you move forward with confidence, knowing that your rights, freedom, and reputation are being fiercely defended.

Contact a St. Johns County Sexual Battery Attorney Today

If you have been accused of sexual battery in St. Johns County, your next steps could determine the rest of your life. The sooner you contact an experienced attorney, the stronger your defense will be.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we will stand by you from investigation to trial—fighting tirelessly to protect your freedom, reputation, and future. We are available 24/7 to help you navigate this challenging time and begin building your defense immediately.

Call (904) 474-3115 or contact us online today to schedule your free, confidential consultation with a St. Johns County sexual battery lawyer.