Teachers hold a special position of trust in our communities. When allegations arise that this trust has been violated, it can lead to serious legal consequences. Sometimes, the police might act on unreliable information or make an arrest without sufficient evidence. Having a dedicated defense attorney by your side is crucial in these challenging situations.
Our St. Petersburg teacher sexual assault defense lawyers are here to support and guide you. Let us help you navigate this complex process with strength and optimism. Reach out today to begin working with an experienced sex crime defense attorney.
According to the Florida Administrative Code, teachers and other educators are required to disclose an arrest or conviction on specific charges, including abuse of a child or possession of a controlled substance. This report must be made within 48 hours of the arrest or criminal charge.
This report is designed to keep school districts informed, and it is not to be used as evidence against the accused at trial. In fact, the law does not allow for this notice to be treated as an admission of guilt or used for any purpose during a criminal or administrative proceeding.
Allegations of sexual misconduct can turn a teacher’s life upside down. The consequences can come from various directions, including criminal prosecution and administrative actions.
The ultimate goal for a teacher sexual assault defense attorney in St. Petersburg is to keep an educator facing these allegations from facing serious criminal punishments such as jail time. The criminal case is the most important consideration, even at the expense of that person’s career. It is important to understand that complying with an investigation by the school district could result in evidence that is harmful to the criminal case.
When a teacher who has been indicted chooses to defend themselves at an administrative hearing, anything they say could be used by the prosecution. This can mean hard decisions need to be made about when to fight back and when to stay silent. Successfully managing these challenges requires a strategic approach to protect both your legal and professional interests while minimizing harm from administrative and criminal proceedings. This makes working with an attorney of the highest importance.
Although there are different criminal offenses that can involve teachers and their students, the most common of these offenses is unlawful sexual activity with minors. This offense involves an individual over the age of 24 engaging in sexual activity with a student aged 16 to 17. The offense is treated as a second-degree felony, and it carries the following penalties:
Anyone guilty of this offense also faces the potential for a lifetime of mandatory sexual offender registration. A St. Petersburg teacher sexual assault defense attorney can review the charges an individual is facing to help them determine the potential penalties and the best approach for a defense.
If you are facing allegations or have been arrested, it is essential to seek an attorney who is committed to your defense. Reach out to a St. Petersburg teacher sexual assault defense lawyer today to start building a strategy.
At Goldman Wetzel, our firm is a close-knit team that brings extensive litigation experience and a proactive approach to every case. Contact us now to safeguard your future and protect your career.