Sex Crimes Your Legal Lifeline in Stormy Seas

Sex Crime Attorney in Sarasota

Confident Defense for Sensitive Charges in Sarasota

When facing allegations of sex crimes in Manatee County, you need guidance from a sex crime attorney in Sarasota who understands the challenges you face. At McIntosh Law, our team approaches every situation with discretion, focus, and genuine care, putting decades of collective defense experience behind you.

Trust and confidentiality anchor every relationship we build with our clients. We recognize that these accusations impact your reputation, employment, and family life both immediately and in the years to come. Our sex crime defense attorneys in Sarasota pay close attention to every detail so you feel supported and fully informed—not isolated—as we advocate for your future in this community.

The path forward begins with a single step. Contact McIntosh Law now for a confidential and free consultation with a sex crime attorney in Sarasota. With over 100 years of combined experience, we know how to fight the state. Call us at (941) 299-0701 or fill out our online form to learn how we can help protect your rights and your future.

How Our Sarasota Sex Crime Defense Lawyers Protect Your Rights

Florida law, primarily in Chapter 794 of the Florida Statutes, defines a wide range of sex offenses that are categorized by their severity.

Our sex crime defense attorneys in Sarasota handle cases involving a wide range of allegations, including:

Sexual battery
Lewd or lascivious acts
Internet or computer-related sex crimes
Failure to register as a sex offender
Solicitation, prostitution or indecent exposure
Statutory offenses

Our team examines the details of every case, aligning our defense with current Florida law and the procedures specific to Sarasota courts. We help you understand what to expect and explain your legal options clearly, so you can make informed decisions about next steps.

Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

For the prosecution to secure a conviction for any sex crime, they must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.

The most critical and challenging element for the prosecution in many sex offense cases is proving the lack of consent. While a victim's testimony is often compelling, the prosecution must also prove that the sexual act was not consensual.

We can argue that:

The victim gave consent: Consent can be communicated through words or actions, and we will work to show that the victim willingly participated in the sexual activity.
There was no force or threat of force: For many sex offenses, the prosecution must prove that the accused used force or the threat of force to commit the crime. We will challenge the state's evidence on this matter and argue that the victim was not in fear of imminent harm.
The accused had no criminal intent: For some sex crimes, the prosecution must prove that the accused had a specific criminal intent. We can argue that the alleged acts were the result of a misunderstanding or a mistake, not a deliberate act.

By meticulously challenging these elements, we can create reasonable doubt and fight for an acquittal.

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"Fantastic Communication"
Kevin saved my life. He is not the typical lawyer, there was fantastic communication and diligent care taken with my case. I am eternally grateful and I highly recommend this law firm!

- Shawn B.
"Knowledgable and Friendly"
Brett and Kevin are outstanding, diligent lawyers who work extremely hard on behalf of their clients. I felt they offered the most realistic approach and were willing to work hard for the best outcome possible.

- Carla W.
"11 Felonies Dropped / Beyond Grateful"
Over two years ago I was charged with 11 felonies for drug trafficking & possession with intent to sell. Most people assume in this position, their life is over. When in reality, all you need to do is hire someone like Brett McIntosh who is a compassionate & knowledgeable criminal defense attorney. My personal experience working with Brett, & everyone in his law firm, especially Beth Loeffler, was not only professional & precise, it was more than that.They gave me my life back, & everything in between. It was their capability in diving deep into my case, finding anything & everything to be meticulous about it in order to help their clients in any way, shape, or form. I am beyond grateful for the diligent work and performance McIntosh law achieved in winning in court, and for getting all of my charges DROPPED. I was facing a minimum of 15 years & to be sitting here writing this review is so extraordinary to me, due to the relief I feel because of McIntosh law is something I can't thank them enough for. Thank you for being the best law firm out there, & for sticking by your clients till the end. I highly recommend Brett McIntosh for any Criminal Defense case you have. At the end of the day, I wouldn't want any other Law Firm fighting for my life & freedom. Thank you!

- AVVO Reviewer
"Criminal Defense"
Brett McIntosh took on my case after I fired another attorney and he was very fair and honest with me. Most lawyers I hired previous to Mr. McIntosh would promise whatever you wanted to hear in consultation then when they received the money things would change. Mr McIntosh was completely honest with me and even gave me a discount because of the 7,000 paid to the previous lawyer. When we got to court not did he only get everything he thought he could he actually did better. In a troubling time a lawyer becomes more then representation in court they become your hope your counsler and I would recommend him to anyone.

- AVVO Reviewer - Jeremy F.
"Excellent in every way"
I have known Brett for over 7 hears. In addition to being a valuable contributor to society here in Sarasota, he has helped me personally (with a DUI) and more recently helped my son with legal challenges. Brett was able combine my son's charges and their restitution in a manageable way. He was able to prevent irreparable harm to his future. During two very stressful periods of our lives, he and his staff were courteous and always got back with us. Their help was invaluable.

- AVVO Reviewer - Debbie
"Very Happy Client"
I am writing in regards to my case and my decision to hire your firm for my legal situation. From moment one you explained my case and what you would do to help me. You gave me no false hopes just facts and the chances, good and bad in what you felt the outcome would be. My only regret is that I didn’t spend the money and hire you in the very beginning of my case as I truly feel that I would not have gone to prison for two and a half years for something I did not do. I regret not calling you for help sooner. At any rate, I could have been stuck with a restitution payment that would have most certainly put me back in prison for an additional ten years without your knowledge, help and professionalism. Thank you for giving me hope again. Thank you Brett McIntosh and your paralegals, Ron and Joanne, for all of your help and good wishes. I would recommend your firm to anyone in a situation that they’d never dreamed would happen to them

- AVVO Reviewer - Judy
"Brilliant, dedicated, reliable, and honest attorney"
Mr. Brett McIntosh knew exactly what he needed to do in order for justice to prevail in my case. I'm convinced he absolutely had a game plan right out the gate to prove my innocence and restore my name. He answered all my questions promptly and honestly and knew exactly what needed to be done to have my false charges against me dismissed. Mr. McIntosh gave me my life back and I would give him 10 stars on here if I could. I'm 100% convinced he would make sure that the legal system is fair and that none of his clients would be taken advantage of by the legal system or false accusations. His incredible amount of experience (28 years) and knowledge of the law is second to none. Thank you SIR for giving me my life back. Don't take a chance and hire the absolute best....Mr. Brett Donald McIntosh.

- AVVO Reviewer
"The best lawyer I have found"
Brett is a very professional lawyer. He worked very hard on my case and worked with me on payments. He always took the time to help me understand everything that went on with my case. He got the matter settled without going to trial. He also put up with calling almost every week to see what was happening. I will always recomnand Brett to all my friends and I would use him again if I get any legal trouble.

- AVVO Reviewer

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Skilled Defenders On Your Side Over 100 Years of Combined Experience

Here's What Sets Us Apart

Deep Local Knowledge & Dedication

With over 25 years serving Manatee County, McIntosh Law is committed to defending our community’s rights with integrity.
Powerful Team Approach

You don’t just get a lawyer—you get an entire team collaborating for your success. Our attorneys and paralegals have over 100+ years of combined experience.
Strategic & Experienced Defense

Your case deserves a personalized strategy. Every team member has over twenty years in law, ensuring a skilled, thoughtful defense tailored to your specific case.
Proven Success

Trusted by thousands, we know what it takes to navigate complex criminal cases, bringing experience and results-driven focus to every stage of your defense.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Conviction in Florida

A conviction for a sex crime in Florida can lead to some of the most severe penalties in the state's criminal justice system. The consequences are far-reaching and can impact your life for decades to come, making it imperative to have a powerful defense from a Sarasota sex crime defense lawyer.

Lengthy Prison Sentences: The sentences for sex crimes vary widely based on the type of offense and the degree of the crime. Sexual battery can be a life felony with a possible life sentence, while other sex offenses can carry a minimum of 1 year in state prison.
Substantial Fines: In addition to any prison time, a conviction can lead to substantial fines that can run into the thousands of dollars.
The Sex Offender Registry: This is one of the most devastating consequences of a sex crime conviction. Florida has a very strict sex offender and predator registry. A person convicted of a qualifying sex offense must register with the state, and the information is publicly accessible. This can follow you for a lifetime, making it incredibly difficult to find a job or secure housing.
Reputational Damage: The social stigma of a sex crime conviction is profound and can make it difficult to find a job, secure housing, or maintain personal relationships.
Professional License Revocation: Many professions, such as doctors, lawyers, nurses, and teachers, require a professional license to practice. A sex crime conviction can be a significant barrier to obtaining a license or can result in the suspension or revocation of an existing license.
Loss of Civil Rights: A felony conviction results in the permanent loss of certain civil rights, including the right to own or possess a firearm.

These long-term impacts underscore the urgency of hiring a skilled sex crime attorney in Sarasota to protect your future.

Your Defense Journey With a Sarasota Sex Crimes Attorney

Being accused of a sex crime can feel overwhelming, but our defense team in Sarasota stands by your side throughout the process. Here’s how our team acts in your best interests:

Thorough case review: Conducting in-depth meetings with you to discuss events and collect all relevant facts
Evidence analysis: Carefully examining police reports, communications, witnesses, and digital evidence
Individualized defense planning: Designing a defense strategy specific to your circumstances and local laws
Consistent updates: Keeping you informed and answering your questions at every stage
Accessible counsel: Offering flexible appointments and multilingual support for comfort and confidence

We believe honest, straightforward guidance matters from the moment you first reach out. If law enforcement contacts you or requests a statement, our team helps you understand your options and how to respond appropriately. We review how legal actions might impact your work, family, or daily routine and help you plan accordingly while your case proceeds in the Sarasota system.

We recognize the importance of meeting all deadlines and preparing thoroughly for Sarasota’s requirements. When helpful, we coordinate with family members for clarity on court obligations, document requests, or support during restrictions. Our approach keeps you prepared, informed, and actively involved, reducing the anxiety and uncertainty that can arise during challenging times.

Contact Us for a Confidential Defense Consultation

If you face charges or an investigation in Sarasota or Manatee County, take action by contacting our team for a confidential consultation. Choose the time and method that fits you best—weekends, evenings, or virtual meetings are available. McIntosh Law's attorneys, paralegals, and staff work together to help you understand your legal options and answer your questions honestly throughout the process.

Call (941) 299-0701 today to schedule a consultation with our sex crimes defense lawyers in Sarasota. Take control over your next steps.

FAQs

What should I do first if I’m accused of a sex crime?

Contact a sex crime defense lawyer in Sarasota promptly. Do not speak to law enforcement about the accusation without your legal counsel present. Early legal advice helps protect your rights and guides your next decisions.

Will my case appear in public records?

Sex crime charges generally enter the public record in Florida. Although some exceptions exist, most cases are accessible unless the court orders them sealed or expunged under specific requirements.

How does Florida’s sex offender registration work?

Florida requires those convicted of qualifying sex offenses to register, with rules on regular reporting and where you may live or work. These obligations can last years or become permanent, depending on the conviction.

Can I have charges reduced or dismissed?

Some cases may qualify for reduction or dismissal of charges based on the facts and local legal procedures. The likelihood depends on your individual situation, which your sex crime defense attorney in Sarasota can review with you.

What challenges are unique to Sarasota or Manatee County courts?

Local law enforcement and courts follow unique procedures and timelines, which can affect how your case moves forward. A defense team familiar with Sarasota’s system helps you anticipate these local differences and navigate your case confidently.

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Why Sarasota Chooses Our Sex Crime Defense Attorneys

Since 1993, McIntosh Law has provided criminal defense in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Our collaborative team approach sets us apart: every client benefits from the strength of more than a century of combined experience across our attorneys and paralegals.

You receive the advantage of multiple professionals reviewing your case—from initial assessment through every stage of defense. We invest the time and attention necessary to understand your unique circumstances, ensuring you always feel heard and respected.

Collaborative defense: Multiple attorneys and paralegals review and develop each strategy together
Depth of experience: Over 100 years dedicated to criminal defense throughout Florida courts
Responsive service: Flexible consultations by night, weekend, or virtual appointment
Inclusive support: Bilingual team helps Spanish-speaking clients access essential legal resources

We understand the urgency and sensitivity surrounding sex crime accusations. Drawing on years of Sarasota casework, we identify patterns in local prosecution and shape tailored strategies to address them. Our collaborative structure allows for rapid internal review and consistent support, which translates to informed guidance for every client at each step.

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100+ Years of Combined Experience Decades of Experience, United for Your Defense

Standing Together When the Storms Rage

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