Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer in Jacksonville
Age-of-Consent Defense Backed by Special Assault Division Experience
Florida’s criminal code doesn’t include a charge formally titled “statutory rape.” What most people call statutory rape is prosecuted under several distinct statutes covering lewd or lascivious offenses and sexual battery, and unlawful sexual activity with certain minors. The age of consent in Florida is 18, and charges can arise from conduct involving parties of very different ages or those much closer in age. Either way, a conviction carries life-altering consequences. At McCormick Law, we represent people facing these allegations across Northeast Florida, bringing a prosecution-side perspective and thousands of cases of courtroom experience to every defense we build.
If you’ve been contacted by law enforcement or charged under one of Florida’s age-of-consent statutes, don’t wait. Contact McCormick Law now for a free consultation. Our attorneys are available 24/7, including evenings and weekends. Call (904) 353-0436.Why Russell McCormick’s Background Matters for These Cases
Russell B. McCormick served as an Assistant State Attorney in the Fourth Judicial Circuit and was assigned to the Special Assault Division, where he handled complex, high-stakes felony prosecutions. That assignment covered exactly the category of cases you’re facing now. He understands how investigators approach these cases, how prosecutors evaluate charges, and where defenses can take hold. That insight shapes every strategy we build.
When you work with our firm, you work directly with our attorneys from the first conversation through resolution. Cases aren’t passed off to paralegals or rotated between associates. We treat each client’s situation as its own, building a defense around the specific facts rather than applying a generic template. We prepare for trial in every case because that preparation strengthens our position whether the matter goes before a jury or resolves earlier.
Which Florida Statutes Actually Apply
The statute that governs your case depends primarily on the ages of both parties. Florida law draws distinct lines based on the alleged victim’s age and the age of the accused, and understanding which statute applies is the first step in evaluating your situation.
Florida Statute 800.04: Lewd or Lascivious Battery
Florida Statute 800.04 covers lewd or lascivious battery, which applies when sexual activity involves a person who is at least 12 but under 16 years old. This statute applies regardless of the age of the accused.
Florida Statute 794.05: Unlawful Sexual Activity with Certain Minors
Florida Statute 794.05, unlawful sexual activity with certain minors, applies when the accused is 24 or older and the alleged victim is 16 or 17. If the accused is 23 or younger, that particular statute doesn’t apply, though other charges may still be possible depending on the circumstances.
Florida Statute 794.011: Capital Felony Charges
When the alleged victim is younger than 12, Florida Statute 794.011 can apply, and the charge can rise to a capital felony. One point that surprises many people: Florida law does not treat a minor’s apparent willingness as a defense. A minor’s stated consent, their behavior at the time, or their sexual history has no legal effect on whether a crime occurred under these statutes.
Five-Star Reviews See What our Clients Have to Say
Russell B. McCormick Focuses on You, and It Shows in Our Reviews
Read through some of our recent five-star client testimonials below, or call (904) 353-0436 get started with our attorney today.
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"Five stars doesn’t even do his firm justice!"
Mr. McCormick is an outstanding attorney. He was very thorough in every detail of my case, which ultimately led to the dismissal of all charges in my situation. Not only is he very communicative about every aspect, but shows great integrity and loyalty. He even called after hours when it was necessary. He is very knowledgeable and passionate about his work. I would 100% recommend him as an exceptionally excellent attorney. His staff is wonderful and kind as well, and available to help with any questions or concerns you may have.
Five stars doesn’t even do his firm justice!
- Arlene S. -
"Now I can get back to living instead of worrying. I cannot begin to explain the weight that has been lifted."I appreciate all of your efforts and support. It has been a very trying time and I am extremely grateful. I cannot begin to explain the weight that has been lifted. Now I can get back to living instead of worrying. My young adults are my life and they all are beautiful beings with loving hearts. Thank you again and thank the ladies in your office Dorothy and Brandi. Two very professional and very kind ladies. And please thank Luke for me also. Very kind. May God Bless you all. Take care.
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"Russell B. McCormick was very direct and upfront about everything, laying out all the options available to me."A friend who went through a similar situation recommended me this Law Office. I was a bit nervous about talking to a lawyer since it was my first time having to need one. Russell B. McCormick was very direct and upfront about everything, laying out all the options available to me. He was also quite accommodating with my work schedule and kept me up to date with anything that came up or that I needed to do. I’m so grateful he was able to reduce my charge, with the eligibility of getting it sealed later on.- Kevin
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"Russell is Amazing!"Russell is Amazing! He handled my son’s case with such professionalism all while having a very calm demeanor. His hard work granted the best results for my son, and we are more than pleased. And I can’t leave out Dorothy! It was a pleasure speaking with her when calling the office Every Time.She was always sweet and made sure to answer any concerns that we had.. Overall I give Russell and his team a A+.. I highly recommend..- Meka B.
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"They were knowledgeable and straight to the point"This firm was well worth it , they were knowledgeable and straight to the point and actually got the job done . Also they respond back to you in a timely manner . I am very appreciative for their service. Now I can move forward in life . Thanks- Deven R.
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"Highly recommend Russell McCormick."Highly recommend Russell McCormick. Upon calling he immediately went to work on my case. He clearly communicated the process and walked me through any questions I had. He was also able to get my sentencing talked down and made the process as painless as it could be. I am so glad he was referred to me!- Rachel B.
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"Russell cares and he knows the system. the outcome of my case far surpassed my expectations."Russell was great! this is the second time I have used him and i have to say, I'm impressed. Russell cares and he knows the system. the outcome of my case far surpassed my expectations. I would recommend Russell McCormick to anyone needing legal counsel. After finding Russell, I will never use anyone else for my legal needs!- Luke F.
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Called the McCormick office in trouble, with my freedom on the line. Russell answered the phone himself and confirmed he took on my type of cases. He took my information down and we scheduled a consultation. When I arrived for my consultation, he already had the information about my case,and a plan to come to my defense, already in tow! That made me confident in hiring Russell. However, my case had gotten thrown out (unbeknownst to me) and even though I paid the retainers fee, he sent me a refund.In reality he could have kept it. That right there is why he'll forever be my go to attorney if I needed one. Ready to defend and honest when need be. I appreciate him and Ms Dorothy and highly recommend. Thanks again!- Jones
How These Cases Move Through Duval County Courts
The Fourth Judicial Circuit covers Clay, Duval, and Nassau counties. Criminal matters arising in Jacksonville, including first appearance hearings and arraignment, are handled at the Duval County Courthouse. We handle cases at every stage: from the period before charges are filed, through arrest, arraignment, and pre-trial hearings, to trial and post-conviction matters.
Start Your Defense with a Free Consultation
Age-of-consent allegations move quickly once law enforcement is involved. The sooner we can review the facts, the more we may be able to do. McCormick Law offers free initial consultations, payment plans, evening and weekend appointments, and off-site meeting options so that getting legal help doesn’t require working around a rigid schedule.
Call McCormick Law at (904) 353-0436 to speak with an attorney about your case.