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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando, FL

Traveling to Meet a Minor Lawyer in Orlando, FL

Florida law makes it illegal for anyone to attempt to solicit a minor or to engage in sexual activities through the internet or other electronic devices, and may be arrested or charged for soliciting or traveling to meet a minor. This crime has significant consequences for those convicted, including jail time, expensive fines, and a criminal record. It is essential for anyone arrested or investigated for this crime to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The attorneys at Hanlon Law have valuable experience defending those accused of traveling to meet a minor. Our lawyer will help you understand the legal process and explore possible defenses relevant to your case. 


Traveling to Meet a Minor Statute and Consequences 


Under Florida Statute 847.0135(4), it is a second-degree felony to travel to meet a minor intending to engage in sexual or any other illegal activity. It is also illegal to travel to Florida or from Florida for this purpose. An attempt to travel to meet a minor is also unlawful, as is causing someone else to travel to meet a minor or even attempt to do so. It is not a requirement of the statute that the person the defendant seeks to meet is a minor, as long as the defendant believes that the person is a child based on information obtained from the internet or another electronic data transmission, such as a text message. If convicted, the individual could face up to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. Additionally, if the minor is under the age of 12, the crime is considered a first-degree felony, which could result in life imprisonment. It is important to note that even if the minor has given consent, they are not legally able to do so, as they are old enough to make such a decision.


Defenses to the Crime of Traveling to Meet a Minor 


While it is never acceptable to travel to meet a minor for sexual purposes, there may be cases in which an individual may attempt to defend themselves against the crime. However, it is essential to note that the burden of proof lies on the defendant, and the prosecution has a high bar to clear to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Here are some potential defenses that may be used in cases of traveling to meet a minor: 


  • Lack of Intent: To be convicted of traveling to meet a minor, the prosecution must prove that the individual intended to engage in sexual activity or other illegal activity with the minor. If the individual can prove that they did not have the intent to engage in such behavior, they may be able to mount a successful defense. 
  • Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officials persuade an individual to commit a crime they would not have achieved otherwise. If the individual can prove that they were coerced or pressured into traveling to meet a minor by law enforcement officials, they may be able to use this as a defense. 
  • Age Verification: If the individual can prove that they had reason to believe that the minor was over the age of 18, they may be able to mount a successful defense. However, it is essential to note that this defense may not hold up if the prosecution can prove that the individual did not take reasonable steps to verify the age of the minor.
  • Lack of Physical Meeting: If the individual did not actually meet the minor in person but only communicated with them online, they may be able to use this as a defense. However, it is important to note that in some cases, the act of traveling to meet the minor is enough to be charged with the crime, regardless of whether a physical meeting took place.


It is important to note that while these defenses may be used, they are not always successful, and the individual may still face serious legal consequences for their actions. It is crucial to seek legal counsel if you or someone you know is facing charges of traveling to meet a minor and to refrain from engaging in this type of behavior in the first place. The harm caused to the minor can have severe and long-lasting effects, and the legal and social consequences of engaging in this behavior are severe.


Contact an Experienced Sex Crimes Lawyer 


Traveling to meet a minor for sexual purposes is a serious crime with severe legal consequences. A conviction for this offense creates lifelong hardships for the defendants, including registering as a sex offender and harsh societal judgments. The attorneys at Hanlon Law use all available resources to defend our clients. Our knowledgeable lawyers advocate for those accused of this crime and use their expertise to form robust defenses. 


If you are facing charges for traveling to meet a minor in Orlando, Florida, contact the attorneys at Hanlon Law today to protect your future.

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