A computer solicitation charge is one of the most serious internet crimes a person can face in Florida. Prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, and a conviction can permanently alter your life. Therefore, having a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side is essential.
Martin County residents facing these charges need immediate legal help. Whether you are in Stuart, Hobe Sound, Palm City, or Jensen Beach, the consequences of a conviction can follow you for years. Because of this, acting quickly is one of the most important steps you can take.
At Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates, LLC, our team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We have more than 30 years of experience defending clients against serious criminal charges throughout the Treasure Coast region. Contact JKJ today to discuss your case with a knowledgeable legal professional.
What Is Computer Solicitation Under Florida Law?
Computer solicitation is a criminal offense under Florida Statute § 847.0135. This law makes it illegal to use a computer, smartphone, or the internet to solicit a minor for unlawful sexual conduct. Additionally, it covers travel to meet a minor after such solicitation occurs.
Florida law takes these offenses very seriously. Moreover, law enforcement agencies across the state — including in Martin County — frequently conduct undercover sting operations. These stings often involve officers posing as minors in online chat platforms, apps, or messaging services.
How These Cases Typically Unfold
Most computer solicitation cases begin with online communication. An undercover officer may initiate or respond to a conversation in a chat room or social media app. Then, if the communication turns sexual in nature, law enforcement may move to make an arrest.
In many cases, the accused never actually communicated with a real minor. However, Florida law still treats the offense as a felony. As a result, the penalties can be severe even when no actual child was involved.
Common Platforms Involved in These Cases
- Social media messaging apps
- Online dating platforms
- Chat rooms and forums
- Text messaging and email
- Gaming platforms with communication features
Law enforcement monitors many of these platforms closely. Furthermore, digital evidence gathered from these sources often forms the backbone of the prosecution’s case.
Potential Penalties for Computer Solicitation in Florida
The penalties for a computer solicitation conviction are significant. Florida classifies most computer solicitation offenses as third-degree felonies or higher. Therefore, the consequences can include prison time, heavy fines, and mandatory sex offender registration.
In addition, a conviction can affect your employment, housing, and personal relationships for the rest of your life. Many employers and landlords conduct background checks. As a result, even after serving a sentence, the impact of a conviction can continue for decades.
Sex Offender Registration Requirements
One of the harshest consequences of a computer solicitation conviction is mandatory sex offender registration. This requirement is public-facing, meaning neighbors, employers, and community members can access the information. Moreover, Florida’s registration requirements are among the strictest in the nation.
Registered sex offenders face restrictions on where they can live and work. For example, many cannot reside near schools, parks, or daycare centers. This can make life in communities like Palm City or Jensen Beach extremely difficult.
Additional Consequences to Consider
- Loss of professional licenses
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Restrictions on internet and device use
- Damage to personal and family relationships
- Difficulty finding and keeping employment
Because of these wide-ranging consequences, mounting a strong defense from the very beginning is critical. Every day matters when you are facing charges of this nature.
Possible Defenses in a Computer Solicitation Case
Being charged does not mean you will be convicted. There are meaningful defenses available in computer solicitation cases. However, identifying the right defense strategy requires a thorough review of the evidence and the circumstances of your case.
Our attorneys carefully examine every detail. We look at how law enforcement conducted their investigation, how evidence was collected, and whether your constitutional rights were respected throughout the process. Additionally, we evaluate whether any procedural errors occurred that could benefit your defense.
Entrapment as a Defense
Entrapment is one of the most commonly raised defenses in computer solicitation cases. This defense applies when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. Therefore, if an officer used pressure or persistent persuasion to push the conversation in a criminal direction, entrapment may be a valid argument.
Florida courts apply a specific legal standard when evaluating entrapment claims. Our team knows how to analyze the facts of your case against this standard. We will work to determine whether this defense applies in your situation.
Challenging the Digital Evidence
Digital evidence in these cases must be gathered and handled properly. If law enforcement obtained chat logs, emails, or device data without a valid warrant, that evidence may be suppressed. As a result, the prosecution’s case could be significantly weakened.
Our attorneys know how to file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence. Furthermore, we work with investigators and digital forensics experts when necessary. This allows us to challenge the integrity and admissibility of the state’s evidence.
Mistaken Identity and Other Defenses
In some cases, the person charged may not be the individual who sent the messages in question. For example, shared devices or compromised accounts can lead to wrongful accusations. Additionally, identity theft and account hacking are real concerns in internet crime investigations.
No matter the circumstances, our team believes that everyone deserves a vigorous defense. We will explore every available legal avenue to protect your rights and your future.
Why You Need a Local Criminal Defense Attorney
Navigating the Martin County criminal court system requires local knowledge and experience. Prosecutors and judges in Stuart operate differently than those in other Florida counties. Therefore, having an attorney who understands the local legal landscape gives you a meaningful advantage.
Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates has built strong professional relationships throughout the Treasure Coast. Our team is familiar with the practices of local prosecutors and the expectations of Martin County judges. Moreover, we know how to strategically position your case for the best possible outcome.
Serving Clients Across the Treasure Coast
Our firm proudly serves clients throughout the region. In addition to Martin County, we regularly handle cases in St. Lucie County, Indian River County, and Okeechobee County. Whether you live in Fort Pierce, Stuart, Hobe Sound, or Palm City, our team is ready to help.
We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Because criminal charges do not follow a schedule, neither do we. You can reach our team at any time to get the answers and support you need.
What to Do If You Are Charged or Under Investigation
If you believe you are under investigation or have already been charged, your next steps matter enormously. First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court.
Next, avoid using any devices that may be connected to the investigation. Additionally, do not attempt to delete messages, files, or accounts. Such actions could be interpreted as obstruction of justice and create additional legal problems.
Then, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as quickly as possible. The sooner our team gets involved, the more effectively we can protect your rights and begin building your defense. Talk with a legal expert at JKJ before making any decisions about your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Solicitation in Florida
Can I be charged even if I never met the person in real life?
Yes. Florida law does not require that a physical meeting occur. The act of soliciting through a computer or device is itself a criminal offense. Therefore, charges can be filed based solely on online communication.
Is computer solicitation a felony in Florida?
In most cases, yes. Florida classifies computer solicitation as a felony offense. The specific degree of the felony depends on the circumstances, including the age of the alleged victim and whether travel was involved.
What if I did not know the other person was a minor?
This is a common defense argument, but it is not always straightforward. Florida law can still hold individuals liable in certain situations. However, our attorneys can evaluate whether this argument applies meaningfully to your specific case.
Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
In many computer solicitation cases, sex offender registration is a mandatory consequence of conviction. This is one of the most serious collateral consequences you face. Because of this, fighting the charges with an experienced attorney is critically important.
How long do I have to hire a lawyer after being charged?
There is no set deadline, but you should act immediately. Early involvement by a defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Furthermore, important evidence must be preserved and reviewed as soon as possible.
Contact JKJ for a Computer Solicitation Defense Consultation
Facing a computer solicitation charge is frightening. The stakes are high, and the legal process can feel overwhelming. However, you do not have to face this alone.
Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates has more than 30 years of experience defending clients against serious criminal charges. Our team provides skilled, compassionate, and aggressive representation for clients across Martin County and the entire Treasure Coast. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and begin protecting your future.
Do not wait to get the legal help you need. Contact JKJ today to schedule a consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney. We will review your case, explain your options, and fight tirelessly for the best possible outcome on your behalf.
