Sexting — possessing or distributing sexually explicit images or videos by cellphone — can be a serious offense in Florida, depending on the age of the alleged victim and the age of the person sending or receiving the image. To protect your future, it's important to seek legal advice before you speak to police or anyone else about the charges.

At the law firm of Aaron Delgado & Associates in Daytona Beach, Florida, our attorneys understand Florida's sexting and child pornography laws. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and explain the potential consequences. We have offices in Daytona Beach and DeLand.

Is Sexting A Criminal Offense?

Sending or receiving a sexually explicit picture of a person who is under the age of 18 can be charged as a felony under Florida or federal child pornography laws. You could subject to a lengthy prison sentence and lifetime registration as a sex offender if you are convicted.

In 2011, Florida passed a law exempting minors from harsh consequences for sexting nude photos. If both you and the alleged victim are under the age of 18, you are subject to a $60 fine and eight hours of community service for a first offense. A second offense is a misdemeanor and a third offense is felony. Sexting a sexual act involving a minor, however, is a felony even for a first offense, regardless of your age.

The following situations could result in felony child pornography charges:

• An adult male or female sexting nude photos of a person under the age of 18, even if the pictures were taken consensually
• A minor sexting a video or image of a sexual act involving a person under the age of 18
• Having sex with someone less than 16 years of age (or under 18 if you are 24 or older) can be charged as statutory rape.

Free Consultation With A Daytona Beach Sexting Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with sexting in Florida, Aaron Delgado & Associates can defend you. For a free consultation with a lawyer, call us at 386-222-6677 or contact us online.