Traveling to Meet Minor for Sex Lawyers

Traveling to Meet Minor for Sex Laws – What You Need to Know

Traveling to meet a minor for sex is unfortunately a crime that happens too often. As caring citizens, we need to understand the laws around this troubling issue in order to protect our communities. This article will provide a friendly overview of traveling to meet minor laws, common defenses, penalties, and how lawyers can help.

What is Traveling to Meet a Minor?

Traveling to meet a minor refers to when an adult travels for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. This is often initiated through online chatting or social media. The adult sets up a meeting, then travels to meet the minor.

The crime applies even if the meeting itself doesn’t occur. Simply traveling with intent is enough to be charged. The minor also doesn’t have to be real – even traveling to meet who you believe is a minor can lead to charges.

Traveling to Meet a Minor Laws by State

Many states have laws specifically prohibiting traveling to meet a minor for sex. Charges often include:

• Soliciting a Minor for Sexual Conduct
• Luring a Child
• Traveling to Meet After Using Computer to Lure a Child

States like Florida, Texas, California, and New York have particularly strong laws against this behavior. Penalties tend to be harsher compared to other sex crimes.

For example, in Florida traveling to meet a minor is a second-degree felony with up to 15 years in prison. Fines up to $10,000 are also possible. It’s important to remember laws vary significantly by state.

Common Defenses Against Traveling to Meet a Minor Charges

There are defenses a skilled criminal lawyer may use if you’re charged with traveling to meet a minor:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• You didn’t actually “travel” anywhere: If you changed your mind before leaving, or only drove within your town, the travel element may not be satisfied.
• It wasn’t your intent to have sex: Perhaps you were trying to mentor or counsel the minor, without intent for sex. This may defeat the intent requirement.
• You were entrapped: If police pressured you into committing a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have, entrapment may apply.
• You were falsely accused: Minors sometimes lie about their age online or catfish adults. You may have reasonably believed they were of legal age.
• Mistaken identity: Perhaps it was someone else using your device or online accounts.

A skilled lawyer will look at the specific facts to identify possible defenses. Don’t hesitate to discuss your side.

What to Do If You’re Being Investigated

If police want to interview you about traveling to meet a minor, politely decline. Say you’ll only speak with your lawyer present. Police may use deceptive tactics to try to get a confession.

Never talk to police without an attorney! Anything you say can be used against you, even if you’re just trying to clear up a misunderstanding.

Hire a lawyer immediately if you learn you’re under investigation. Quick action to preserve evidence and build a defense is crucial.

How a Lawyer Can Help if You’re Charged

The penalties for traveling to meet a minor are severe. Up to 15 years in prison is possible in some states. You need an aggressive defense.

An experienced lawyer will thoroughly analyze the evidence, including online records. They may find improper police conduct, like entrapment. The lawyer can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or diversion programs.

If necessary, they can defend you at trial. Traveling to meet a minor cases often rely heavily on digital evidence. Your lawyer can scrutinize this evidence and retain expert witnesses if needed.

Overall, a skilled criminal defense lawyer can give you the strongest chance at a positive outcome. Don’t go it alone against serious charges like these.

Take a Proactive Approach

The best approach is being proactive to make sure these situations don’t happen in the first place. We all need to keep a watchful eye on kids’ online activities. Parents should have open conversations about safe internet use.

We should also advocate for better education to prevent adults from attempting to victimize minors. With greater awareness, hopefully fewer people will engage in this behavior.

Get Legal Help You Can Trust

If you or a loved one is charged with traveling to meet a minor, get dedicated legal help quickly. Time is of the essence in building a strong defense. An experienced lawyer will stand by your side and be your advocate.

They will thoroughly examine the evidence while aggressively defending your rights. Don’t wait to get counsel from a lawyer you can trust. The stakes are too high, and an effective defense takes time to build. We’re here to help – reach out today to set up a free consultation.