A computer solicitation charge can turn your life upside down overnight. Florida law treats these offenses seriously, and a conviction can carry life-altering consequences. If you or someone you love is facing charges in Martin County, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side right away.
At Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates, LLC, we have defended clients across Fort Pierce, Stuart, Hobe Sound, and Jensen Beach for more than 30 years. Furthermore, we understand the fear and uncertainty that comes with facing these types of charges. Our team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you take the right steps immediately.
Do not wait. The sooner you secure qualified legal representation, the better your chances of protecting your freedom and your future. Contact JKJ today to schedule a confidential consultation with our experienced criminal defense team.
What Is Computer Solicitation Under Florida Law?
Computer solicitation is a serious criminal offense in Florida. It generally involves using a computer, smartphone, or other electronic device to solicit a minor for unlawful sexual conduct. Additionally, charges can arise even when no actual minor was involved — for example, if law enforcement used an undercover officer posing as a minor.
Florida Statute § 847.0135 governs most computer solicitation offenses. These charges are typically classified as felonies. Therefore, the penalties can be severe, including significant prison time, heavy fines, and mandatory sex offender registration.
Common Scenarios That Lead to Charges
Many people are surprised by how quickly a computer solicitation investigation can escalate. For example, law enforcement agencies across Martin County frequently conduct sting operations online. These operations target chat rooms, social media platforms, and dating apps.
Moreover, an arrest can happen based on digital messages alone — even if no in-person meeting ever occurred. Because of this, it is critical to understand your rights and avoid making statements to law enforcement without an attorney present.
Why Computer Solicitation Charges Are So Complex
Computer solicitation cases involve layers of digital evidence. Investigators collect text messages, emails, chat logs, browser history, and device metadata. As a result, building a strong defense requires a thorough understanding of both criminal law and digital forensics.
Our attorneys work closely with investigators and technical experts to examine the evidence in your case. We carefully analyze how evidence was gathered. In many situations, law enforcement may have violated your constitutional rights during the investigation, which can open the door to suppressing key evidence.
Your Constitutional Rights Still Apply
Even in computer solicitation cases, your Fourth Amendment rights protect you from unlawful searches and seizures. However, many defendants are unaware of this protection. Law enforcement must follow strict legal procedures when obtaining warrants to search devices or accounts.
Additionally, your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent is critically important. Anything you say to investigators — online or in person — can be used against you. Therefore, you should always speak with an attorney before making any statements to law enforcement.
Consequences of a Computer Solicitation Conviction in Florida
The consequences of a computer solicitation conviction in Martin County can be devastating. First, you face the immediate criminal penalties, which can include years in state prison. Next, you may be required to register as a sex offender, which carries lifelong consequences for housing, employment, and relationships.
Furthermore, a conviction can affect your ability to find work, obtain professional licenses, or live in certain areas. In addition, your personal relationships and reputation in your community — whether in Stuart, Hobe Sound, or Port St. Lucie — can suffer lasting damage. These are consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom.
Felony Classifications and Sentencing Ranges
Computer solicitation offenses in Florida are typically charged as second or third-degree felonies, depending on the specific circumstances. Second-degree felonies carry up to 15 years in prison. Third-degree felonies can result in up to five years of imprisonment.
Moreover, if the alleged conduct involved traveling to meet a minor, charges can be elevated further. Because of this, having a skilled defense attorney who understands Florida’s sentencing guidelines is absolutely essential to protecting your future.
How JKJ Builds a Strong Defense Against Computer Solicitation Charges
At Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates, we approach every case with a thorough, strategic mindset. We begin by carefully reviewing all of the evidence gathered by law enforcement. Additionally, we examine whether proper legal procedures were followed during the investigation and arrest.
Our attorneys explore every available defense strategy. For example, we may challenge the legality of the search warrant used to access your devices. We may also argue entrapment if law enforcement induced you into conduct you would not have otherwise engaged in. Furthermore, we scrutinize the authenticity and chain of custody of all digital evidence.
Possible Defense Strategies We May Pursue
- Entrapment: Law enforcement cannot legally induce someone to commit a crime they would not have committed otherwise.
- Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove you intended to solicit a minor for unlawful conduct.
- Illegal search and seizure: Evidence obtained without a valid warrant may be suppressed.
- Mistaken identity: Digital accounts can be accessed by multiple people, and authorship is not always clear-cut.
- Procedural violations: Investigators must follow strict legal protocols; any deviation may weaken the state’s case.
Each case is unique. Therefore, we tailor our defense strategy to the specific facts and circumstances surrounding your situation. Our goal is always to secure the most favorable outcome possible for you.
Why Choose Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates?
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in your case. Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., brings more than 30 years of dedicated criminal defense experience to every client he represents. Our firm serves clients across Fort Pierce, Stuart, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, and all of Martin County and the surrounding Treasure Coast region.
We are available around the clock because we understand that legal emergencies do not follow business hours. Additionally, we take a compassionate approach to every case. We recognize that good people sometimes find themselves in extraordinarily difficult situations. No matter whether you made a mistake or have been wrongly accused, you deserve the strongest possible defense.
Our Approach to Client Communication
We believe you should always know where your case stands. Our attorneys take the time to fully explain the charges against you and the potential penalties you face. We also walk you through your available options so you can make informed decisions about your defense.
Furthermore, our team knows the procedures and practices of Martin County’s criminal courts, judges, and prosecutors. This knowledge helps us anticipate how the state may build its case and respond effectively on your behalf. Talk with a legal expert at JKJ today to learn what we can do for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Solicitation in Martin County
Can I be charged even if I never met anyone in person?
Yes. Under Florida law, charges can be filed based on online communications alone. Additionally, undercover sting operations commonly result in arrests without any in-person meeting ever taking place. The alleged solicitation itself is the offense.
Does entrapment apply if I was contacted first by law enforcement?
Entrapment may be a valid defense in some cases. However, the legal standard is specific — you must show that law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether entrapment applies in your situation.
What happens if law enforcement searched my phone without a warrant?
Evidence obtained through an illegal search may be suppressed. Therefore, it may not be used against you at trial. Our attorneys carefully review all search and seizure procedures in every case we handle.
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 long-term consequences of a guilty verdict. Because of this, fighting the charges aggressively from the start is critically important.
How quickly should I contact a defense attorney?
You should contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible — ideally before speaking with law enforcement. Early intervention gives your attorney the best opportunity to protect your rights and build a strong defense. Request a consultation with our team at JKJ right away.
Contact the Best Computer Solicitation Lawyer in Martin County
Facing a computer solicitation charge in Martin County, FL is an incredibly stressful experience. However, you do not have to face it alone. The legal team at Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates, LLC is ready to fight aggressively for your rights and your freedom.
We serve clients throughout Stuart, Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach, Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, and all surrounding Treasure Coast communities. Furthermore, our attorneys are available 24/7 to provide the immediate guidance you need during this difficult time.
Do not let a computer solicitation charge define your future. Explore your options and take action today. Contact JKJ now to schedule your confidential consultation with our experienced Martin County criminal defense team.
