Florida Criminal Lawyers Gearup for Changes in Sexual Predator Laws
On July 1, 2009, HB 0115 became effective. This bill changes the way that Florida deals with known sexual offenders and how they are legally designated. Florida criminal lawyers are going to be working hard trying to assist their clients to not only maintain the proper documentation, but also to help them abide by the laws and restrictions placed on them by the courts.
For instance, if you are facing charges that will result in your being named a sexual predator, you will want to understand what that means in terms of where you can work, live or go to school. Florida statutes limit all of these activities for those classified as sexual predators, but being convicted of a crime of a sexual nature does not automatically define you as a sexual predator.
Florida criminal law attorneys are ready to work with your defense so that you can possibly work out a plea agreement rather than face not only the possibility of being labeled as a predator, but having to change where you live, work or go to school. You will want to keep track of every aspect of your life that will be changed and impacted by the tag "sexual predator" and also keep in mind that once you have been designated as such, the law makes no distinction as to whether your crimes were against an adult or against children. Once convicted, all sexual predators must abide by the same laws.
Finally, keep in mind before working out any plea agreements or going to trial that your Florida criminal lawyer should explain the new laws as they pertain to your case, including the provision requiring all sexual offenders and predators to report their cell phone numbers during their registration process and to keep the courts apprised of any change in that number. Your Florida criminal defense lawyer will also remind you about other restrictions and obligations that you will face during your trial and for your sentencing as your case develops.