Sex Crime Lawyer in St. Petersburg
Sex crime cases are deeply personal and can have lasting effects on everyone involved. Those accused may fear losing their reputation, freedom, and future while survivors often face emotional and legal challenges as they seek justice. Navigating this difficult process requires experienced legal support. At Bastos Defense, we defend those who are facing serious allegations and fight for victims who need a strong advocate.
A background as a former prosecutor provides unique insight into how the state builds sex crime cases. This knowledge allows us to identify false allegations or weak evidence that could lead to wrongful convictions while also protecting survivors' rights and seeking justice on their behalf. Every case is handled with compassion, discretion, and a firm commitment to fairness and justice.
For trusted legal representation in a sex crime case in St. Petersburg, call Bastos Defense at (727) 353-6842 or submit an online contact form here.
Defense Against Sex Crime Charges
Being accused of a sex crime can turn your life upside down. Even before a case goes to trial, allegations alone can damage your reputation, career, and personal relationships. A conviction can mean years in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and consequences that follow you for the rest of your life. Unfortunately, false accusations do happen, and without a strong legal defense, you could be facing penalties for a crime you didn’t commit.
Sex crime cases are often built on personal accounts rather than physical evidence, making them especially complicated. Misunderstandings, misleading statements, or even intentional false claims can quickly spiral into serious criminal charges. If you’ve been accused or are under investigation, taking action as soon as possible can make all the difference. Having an experienced attorney on your side ensures that your rights are protected and your case is handled fairly from the start.
Common Sex Crime Charges We Defend
We represent individuals accused of various sex crimes, including:
- Sexual Misconduct & Assault – Cases where allegations revolve around non-consensual acts.
- Child Pornography Offenses – Defending individuals accused of possessing, distributing, or producing illegal digital content.
- Prostitution & Solicitation – Providing defense strategies for those accused of engaging in or soliciting illegal activity.
- False Allegations – Challenging accusations made out of revenge, misunderstandings, or personal disputes.
Having a former prosecutor on your side means knowing how the state builds its case—and using that knowledge to anticipate their strategy and fight back.
What Sets Us Apart? Defense That Delivers
Get A Former Prosecutor On Your Side
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Elite Experience
María Bastos is a former statewide prosecutor with a track record of handling complex, multi-county cases.
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Client-First Advocacy
Our selective caseload ensures every client gets personalized attention and a strong legal strategy.
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Fierce & Compassionate
We're tough in the courtroom, but deeply committed to guiding clients through criminal defense and family law matters with care.
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Justice-Driven
We are passionate about defending the accused and advocating for victims when possible, always fighting for what’s right.
Possible Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges
Each sex crime case is unique, and the best defense strategy depends on the specific details of the charges. However, several common legal defenses can be used to challenge allegations and protect the accused. In many situations, consent plays a central role. If both parties willingly engaged in the encounter, proving mutual agreement can serve as a strong defense against claims of assault or misconduct.
Unfortunately, false accusations happen more often than people realize. Personal conflicts, custody disputes, or misunderstandings can sometimes lead to wrongful allegations. In these cases, uncovering inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements or exposing ulterior motives can weaken the prosecution’s case. Another major issue is lack of evidence—many sex crime cases rely heavily on personal testimony without any solid forensic proof or reliable witnesses, making it difficult for the state to meet the burden of proof.
Mistaken identity is also a common problem. Eyewitness misidentification can happen in stressful situations, leading to wrongful arrests. Additionally, law enforcement officers must follow strict legal procedures when handling investigations. If police conducted an unlawful search, coerced a confession, or mishandled evidence, those mistakes could result in key evidence being thrown out.
Every detail matters when fighting a sex crime charge. Our firm carefully reviews all aspects of a case—from forensic reports to witness testimony—to build a strong defense. No one should suffer the consequences of a wrongful conviction, and we are committed to protecting our clients’ rights every step of the way.
If you're facing sex crime charges, it's crucial to act quickly. Call Bastos Defense at (727) 353-6842 or fill out our online form to discuss your defense options.
How We Help Survivors Pursue Justice
Survivors have several legal options available:
- Filing Criminal Charges – Law enforcement can investigate and prosecute the offender.
- Seeking a Protective Order – A restraining order can prevent further contact from the perpetrator.
- Pursuing Civil Lawsuits – In addition to criminal charges, victims can sue for damages related to emotional distress, medical costs, and more.
We work closely with law enforcement, forensic experts, and victim advocates to build strong cases, file protective orders, and ensure the survivor’s voice is heard.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a sex crime, legal action can provide protection and closure. Contact us online or at (727) 353-6842 for a confidential consultation.
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"Let Maria fight for you!"Maria's drive, dedication, and compassion, coupled with her extensive experience as a statewide prosecutor, make her an exceptional candidate for your legal needs. She is prepared to stand up for your rights. Let Maria fight for you!- Lelia A.
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"Would definitely recommend her to anyone"I have known Maria a very long time and would definitely recommend her to anyone who needed an effective, timely, and experienced defense attorney.- Ellie C.
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"She Came In Swinging"Maria came in swinging! From the first phone call she had a plan. Top notch defense attorney, more than fair rate. 10/10 would recommend. She is now locked in.- Erica B.
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"Nothing Short of Amazing"Maria is nothing short of amazing! I am so glad I hired her. She went above and beyond! She is very efficient and kept me up to speed every step of the way. I highly recommend Maria to fight for your rights!- Danielle B.
At Bastos Defense, you get a fierce advocate on your side, with a compassionate and personalized approach to client care.
