Gainesville, Ocala and Bushnell Rape Defense Attorney

Florida Sexual Battery Defense Lawyer

Rape, or sexual battery, is the most serious sex crime charge an individual can face in Florida. In some instances a charge of rape against a minor under 12 years old is a Capital Felony, punishable by the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Additionally, even a rape accusation can ruin a person's reputation, career and personal relationships.

Robert G. Whittel is a Florida criminal defense lawyer who knows what it takes to defend rape charges. He understands that in the face of heinous accusations, law enforcement officers and court personnel may be predisposed to side with the prosecution and the alleged victim. The jury, should your case go to trial, may have already made up their minds about your guilt or innocence, based off the tears and the descriptive story of the victim.

By effectively breaking through the prejudice of the jury, Gainesville rape defense attorney Robert Whittel can communicate your side of the story and may be able to help you obtain a verdict in your favor. At the Law Offices of Robert G. Whittel, we deal with sexual battery and rape cases throughout Florida from our offices in Gainesville, Ocala and Bushnell.

Penalties for Sexual Battery and Rape in Florida

Sexual battery is defined as forced intercourse with another person, including oral, anal or vaginal penetration or union with the sexual organ of another. Penetration with an object also qualifies as rape. Either by means of force, threats of bodily injury or when a victim is physically or mentally incapacitated, unconscious, drugged or unable to give consent, a perpetrator can commit rape.

Florida has some of the most severe penalties when it comes to sexual battery charges. These range from non-violent rape of a person over 12 years old (a 2nd Degree Felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison) to rape of a minor under 12, causing injury to the sexual organs (a Capital Felony, punishable by the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole).

Regardless of the charges you face, attorney Robert G. Whittel and his legal team may be able to help. We understand that many rape accusations are false or exaggerated and may stem from feelings of revenge, hatred or jealously. It is our job to prove your factual innocence or secure the best outcome possible for your case.

Accused of rape in Ocala, Bushnell or Gainesville, Florida? Contact criminal defense lawyer Robert Whittel today!