A computer solicitation charge can change your life in an instant. Florida takes these charges extremely seriously, and the consequences can be devastating. Therefore, acting quickly and securing experienced legal representation is critical.
If you are facing computer solicitation allegations in Martin County, you need an attorney who understands Florida’s complex internet crime laws. Additionally, you need someone who knows how local prosecutors and judges approach these cases. The JKJ Team is here to help.
At Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates, LLC, we have defended clients across Fort Pierce, Martin County, Stuart, and the surrounding Treasure Coast region. Furthermore, we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call. Contact JKJ today to schedule a confidential consultation.
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 sexual activity. Moreover, it can also include soliciting a person the defendant believed to be a minor, even if no minor was actually involved.
Florida Statute § 847.0135 governs these offenses. Because of this, even an online conversation that never led to a physical meeting can result in a felony charge. These cases often involve undercover law enforcement operations.
How Florida Law Defines the Offense
Under Florida law, prosecutors do not need to prove that a physical act occurred. Instead, they only need to show that a person used technology to solicit or entice a minor. Additionally, traveling to meet the minor after such communication is a separate and equally serious charge.
The statute covers a wide range of electronic communications. For example, text messages, emails, social media messages, and online chats all fall under its reach. Therefore, even a brief exchange could form the basis of a criminal charge.
Common Scenarios That Lead to Charges
Law enforcement agencies in Martin County and St. Lucie County frequently conduct sting operations. These operations involve officers posing as minors online. As a result, many people face charges based entirely on conversations with undercover detectives.
However, this does not mean a conviction is inevitable. There are meaningful defenses available in these cases. An experienced JKJ attorney will carefully analyze the facts of your situation to identify the strongest strategy.
The Penalties for Computer Solicitation in Florida
The penalties for a computer solicitation conviction are severe. Furthermore, a conviction carries long-lasting consequences that extend far beyond prison time. Understanding what you are facing is the first step toward building a strong defense.
Solicitation of a minor using a computer is typically charged as a third-degree felony in Florida. However, depending on the circumstances, charges can be elevated to a second-degree felony. Each step up in charge level brings significantly harsher potential penalties.
Criminal Penalties You Could Face
- Third-degree felony: Up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and a $5,000 fine
- Second-degree felony: Up to fifteen years in prison, fifteen years of probation, and a $10,000 fine
- Traveling to meet a minor: A separate second-degree felony charge that can stack with the original offense
In addition to prison time, a conviction can result in mandatory sex offender registration. This registration follows you for life and severely impacts where you can live, work, and travel. Therefore, the stakes in these cases could not be higher.
Collateral Consequences Beyond the Courtroom
A computer solicitation conviction affects nearly every area of your life. For example, it can cost you your job, your professional licenses, and your housing options. Moreover, it can damage your relationships with family and your standing in the community.
Communities like Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Jensen Beach, and Hobe Sound are tight-knit. A public record of this nature can follow you through every corner of your daily life. On the other hand, a strong defense can help protect your future before a conviction ever occurs.
Why You Need a Skilled Martin County Defense Attorney
Computer solicitation cases are highly technical. They involve digital evidence, forensic data, and complex legal arguments. Therefore, you need an attorney who knows how to challenge this type of evidence effectively.
Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq. brings more than 30 years of criminal defense experience to every case. He and his team understand how local prosecutors in Martin County and St. Lucie County build these cases. Moreover, they know how to anticipate the state’s strategy and counter it aggressively.
How JKJ Approaches Computer Solicitation Defense
Every case begins with a thorough review of all available evidence. Our attorneys examine chat logs, device records, and law enforcement procedures in detail. Additionally, we look for any violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation.
Next, we identify the most effective defense strategies for your specific situation. For example, we may challenge how law enforcement conducted the sting operation. Furthermore, we may argue entrapment, lack of intent, or insufficient evidence to support the charge.
Then, we work with investigators and digital forensics experts when necessary. This collaborative approach strengthens your defense and gives you the best chance of a favorable outcome. Our team never stops working on your behalf.
Possible Defense Strategies in These Cases
- Entrapment: Arguing that law enforcement induced you to commit an act you would not have otherwise committed
- Lack of intent: Demonstrating that the communication did not reflect a genuine intent to solicit a minor
- Mistaken identity: Challenging whether the state can prove you were the person behind the device
- Constitutional violations: Filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal searches or seizures
- Procedural errors: Identifying errors in the investigation that undermine the state’s case
Because of this wide range of available defenses, do not assume a charge equals a conviction. Contact the JKJ Team to explore your options and learn how we can fight for you.
Serving Clients Across Martin County and the Treasure Coast
Our firm proudly serves clients throughout the Treasure Coast and surrounding areas. We represent individuals in Fort Pierce, Stuart, Jensen Beach, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound. Additionally, we handle cases in communities throughout St. Lucie and Martin counties.
We understand that the Treasure Coast is home to hardworking families, professionals, and longtime residents. Furthermore, we know that a single charge can upend the lives of people who have never been in trouble before. We treat every client with respect, compassion, and urgency.
Moreover, our attorneys know the local court systems, judges, and prosecutors. This local knowledge gives our clients a meaningful advantage. Request a consultation with the JKJ Team today and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Solicitation in Florida
Can I be charged even if I never met anyone in person?
Yes. Florida law does not require a physical meeting to support a computer solicitation charge. The online communication itself is sufficient for charges. Therefore, it is critical to contact a defense attorney as soon as possible.
What if I was communicating with an undercover officer, not a real minor?
This is a very common situation. Florida law still allows prosecution even when the “minor” was actually an undercover officer. However, this fact may support an entrapment defense in certain circumstances. Talk with a legal expert to evaluate your specific case.
Will I automatically have to register as a sex offender?
A conviction for computer solicitation often triggers mandatory sex offender registration in Florida. However, the outcome depends on the specific charge and circumstances of your case. Our attorneys will explain all potential consequences during your consultation.
How quickly should I hire an attorney after an arrest?
You should contact a defense attorney immediately after an arrest or even before charges are formally filed. Early intervention can make a significant difference. Additionally, it gives your legal team more time to preserve evidence and build your defense.
Can the charges be reduced or dismissed?
In some cases, charges can be reduced or dismissed depending on the evidence and legal arguments available. Our team carefully evaluates every case for opportunities to negotiate or challenge the prosecution. Furthermore, we fight aggressively to secure the best possible outcome for every client.
Contact JKJ — Your Martin County Computer Solicitation Defense Team
Facing a computer solicitation charge is frightening and overwhelming. However, you do not have to face it alone. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates, LLC are ready to stand by your side.
Our team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We serve clients in Martin County, Fort Pierce, Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and communities throughout the Treasure Coast. Moreover, we bring more than three decades of criminal defense experience to every case we take.
No matter what you are facing, we believe everyone deserves a strong and dedicated defense. We will review your case, explain your options, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and your freedom. Contact JKJ now to schedule your confidential consultation and take back control of your future.
