Sex crime charges are serious and can have lifelong consequences. Bogenschutz PLLC provides a compassionate and aggressive defense for clients accused of sex crimes. I will work diligently to protect your rights and fight for the best outcome possible. Learn how I can assist you if you’ve been accused of a sex crime.
Free ConsultationFew charges carry as much stigma—or as many life-altering consequences—as sex crimes. Even before a conviction, an accusation alone can upend your life. You may be facing public judgment, job loss, family strain, and fear about what’s next. If you’ve found yourself in this position, know this: you have the right to be defended, and you deserve a defense that treats you like a human being.
My name is Kathleen Bogenschutz, I’m a defense attorney. I have built a reputation across Tallahassee, Destin, and North Florida for defending clients in the most serious, high-stakes cases. I bring not only a strategic legal mind but a grounded, judgment-free presence. I understand that every story is more complicated than a police report—and that justice starts with listening. I’m here to protect your rights and help you make informed, thoughtful decisions about your future.
Florida law includes a wide range of offenses under the umbrella of sex crimes, many of which are felonies with mandatory sentencing guidelines and potential lifelong consequences.
I defend clients facing charges such as:
These cases often involve sensitive allegations, complex evidence (such as digital records or forensic reports), and emotionally charged courtroom environments. I am skilled in navigating both the legal and personal challenges these cases bring.
Sex crime convictions in Florida are among the most severe. Depending on the charge, you could face:
Sex offender registration, in particular, can last a lifetime and limit nearly every aspect of your life—from housing to employment to travel. That’s why having an experienced defense attorney is so critical from the very beginning.
It is highly likely if you are charged with an offense that requires you to register as a sex offender, that this may be the biggest factor in negotiating your case. Florida has two different levels of registration that are triggered by the type of charge. There is a predator designation for anyone who is convicted of a first-degree felony sex charge or a first-degree felony in conjunction with a sex crime. This requires more stringent registration requirements than merely being listed as an offender.
If a person is convicted of a sex offense involving a victim 15 years of age or younger, the Jessica Lunsford Act may require you to wear an electronic monitor during the time you are on supervision. Not only is this a major life encumbrance, but it represents a common way of violating probation, even without intending to do so. Monitors malfunction, lose their power, run out of power in the middle of the night, or, occasionally, are left at the home of a family member, in a car, or on a bus. All of these are common ways to violate probation or community control for someone subject to the Jessica Lunsford Act.
Florida has passed civil commitment for sexual offenders and predators. This involves a hearing wherein the department of children and families moves to civilly commit someone who has been convicted of a sex offense in the past. This confinement is in a civil commitment facility and can be indefinite. These are rarely pursued by the DCF unless there are egregious facts, but any person who is charged with a sex offense should be aware of the law and know that they will be advised of this act at the time of sentencing. In fact, a crime need only be sexually motivated (as opposed to a sex offense) to qualify for a Jimmy Ryce review. Practically speaking, however, a very low percentage of people who are designated sex offenders and/or predators are actually at risk for this kind of confinement.
Pursuant to Florida Statute 943.0435(11) permits a person to petition for removal from the sex offender registry if he or she has been lawfully released from confinement, supervision, or sanction, whichever is later, for at least 25 years. There are also other important caveats in that statute, but it is important to recognize the time requirement of 25 years on the registry prior to seeking out an attorney.
Sex crime cases require a careful, strategic approach. I take the time to understand your side of the story and identify any legal, evidentiary, or procedural weaknesses in the state’s case. I treat you with respect and dignity while working tirelessly to protect your freedom and your future.
Her approach may include:
I will walk you through each step, explain your rights and options clearly, and help you navigate one of the most difficult experiences a person can face.
Being charged with a sex offense does not make you less deserving of care, guidance, or a fair trial. Bogenschutz PLLC handles these cases with professionalism, discretion, and an unwavering commitment to protecting clients’ rights. I know how heavy the weight of these accusations can be—and I’m here to carry that weight with you.
If you or a loved one is facing a sex crime allegation in Tallahassee or anywhere in North Florida, don’t wait to seek help. The earlier you contact an attorney, the more options you may have.
Call (850)273-8327 today for a confidential consultation, or fill out the form below to get started.
We’ll face this together.
Consultations are free and confidential.
I value the privacy of my clients; therefore, office hours are by appointment only.
Please do not appear unannounced at the office. Other clients may be meeting with me and deserve the same privacy in doing so.