Being accused of sexual assault is one of the most serious and stressful experiences a person can face. The consequences can affect not only your freedom but also your career, family, and reputation.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we understand both the sensitivity and severity of these charges. That’s why our Cocoa Beach sexual assault lawyers provide skilled, discreet, and aggressive defense strategies designed to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights at every stage of the process.
If you’ve been charged with sexual assault in Cocoa Beach or Brevard County, call sex crime defense lawyers today at (321) 44-SHARK.
What is Sexual Assault?
In Florida, sexual assault is prosecuted under the state’s sexual battery statute, which defines the offense as oral, anal, or vaginal penetration—or any union with another person’s sexual organ—without consent, or when consent is not legally possible due to age, incapacity, or coercion.
The law recognizes that sexual assault can take many forms, and charges often depend on the specific facts of the case. These cases are extremely serious, emotionally charged, and aggressively prosecuted.
What Are the Different Types of Sexual Assault Charges?
Florida law recognizes several variations of sexual assault charges, including:
- Non-consensual acts — Sexual acts committed without valid consent.
- Aggravated sexual assault — Involving the use of force, threats, or weapons, often carrying enhanced penalties.
- Sexual assault against minors — Often prosecuted under statutory rape provisions, even when the minor allegedly consented.
- Sexual assault involving incapacitation — When the alleged victim was impaired due to drugs, alcohol, or mental incapacity.
Each charge carries different penalties, but all are treated as extremely serious felony offenses.
What Are the Potential Consequences of a Sexual Assault Conviction?
A sexual assault conviction can change the rest of your life.
Potential penalties include:
- Lengthy prison sentences — Up to life in prison for aggravated sexual assault cases.
- Mandatory sex offender registration — Often for life, limiting where you can live and work.
- Fines — Substantial financial penalties in addition to imprisonment.
- Strict probation or counseling requirements — Following release from custody.
Beyond the legal penalties, the collateral consequences are devastating: ruined professional opportunities, damaged family relationships, loss of community standing, and a permanent reputation as a registered sex offender.
What Are Common Defenses Against Sexual Assault Charges?
No two cases are the same, but common defenses may include:
- Consent — Demonstrating that the act was consensual.
- Lack of evidence — Highlighting gaps or flaws in forensic or testimonial evidence.
- Mistaken identity — Questioning whether the accused was correctly identified.
- Challenging credibility — Pointing out inconsistencies or motives in the accuser’s testimony.
- Procedural violations — Excluding evidence obtained unlawfully.
Because sexual assault cases are built heavily on credibility and interpretation of facts, having a strong legal defense from a skilled Cocoa Beach sexual assault lawyer is critical.
Is it Possible to Have Sexual Assault Charges Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes. While these cases are challenging, it is sometimes possible to reduce or dismiss charges by:
- Negotiating plea deals to lesser offenses with reduced penalties.
- Challenging the prosecution’s evidence or questioning its admissibility.
- Presenting strong defenses at trial that create reasonable doubt.
- Pursuing alternatives such as treatment or rehabilitation programs, in limited circumstances.
Each case is unique, but a skilled Cocoa Beach sexual assault lawyer can often find opportunities to minimize or avoid the most severe consequences.
What Should You Do If You’re Facing Sexual Assault Charges?
If you are accused of sexual assault, it is critical to know your rights and to:
- Remain silent — Do not speak to police or investigators without your lawyer present.
- Contact a Cocoa Beach sexual assault attorney immediately — The earlier you involve counsel, the stronger your defense can be.
- Understand the seriousness — Even an allegation can permanently affect your life.
- Work closely with your lawyer — Open communication helps your defense team build the strongest strategy possible.
Call the Cocoa Beach sexual assault lawyers at DeGraff Hicks Law Group at (321) 44-SHARK right away if you are under investigation or have been arrested.
Why Choose DeGraff Hicks Law Group for Your Sexual Assault Defense?
When your freedom and reputation are on the line, you need a Cocoa Beach sexual assault lawyer you can trust—one with proven results in complex cases.
Compassionate Expertise in Sexual Assault Defense
We know how sensitive these cases are and approach them with both compassion and determination. Our role is to provide support while aggressively challenging the state’s case.
Experienced Cocoa Beach Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys
We have successfully represented clients in complex sexual assault cases in Cocoa Beach and across Brevard County. Our attorneys understand the nuances of Florida law and how to defend against serious allegations.
Client-Centered Approach
We are committed to providing personalized defense and open communication throughout your case. We know the toll these charges take, and we work to support you both legally and personally during this difficult time.
Trust Our Cocoa Beach Sexual Assault Lawyers to Fight for You
Sexual assault charges are among the most serious and sensitive cases under Florida law. A conviction can mean years in prison, mandatory registration, and lifelong consequences.
But being accused is not the same as being guilty. At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we are here to fight for your rights and protect your future.
Call our Cocoa Beach sexual assault lawyers today at (321) 44-SHARK to schedule a confidential consultation.
