Across Florida and the United States, a felony crime is considered to be the most serious crime that can be committed. If a person is convicted of a felony crime, they are likely to face a lengthy prison sentence, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. The exact fine and length of the prison sentence will depend on the crime that was committed and the circumstances surrounding it.
If you have been convicted or arrested for criminal charges, then it is highly recommended that you seek legal advice as soon as possible. At The Law Place, a qualified criminal defense lawyer can offer you legal advice and information and guide you through your law case. Our attorneys will work to build a strong defense that can contribute to minimizing penalties.
At The Law Place in North Port, FL., our team has over 75 years of experience in dealing with felony law cases like yours. Our phone lines are always open, so we can be here to support you whenever you need us. Call our law firm today at (941) 444-4444 and receive a free consultation with a highly skilled defense lawyer.
Types of Felony Offences in North Port
A felony can be defined as a highly serious crime that is punishable with more than a year in prison or, in some circumstances, even death. According to Florida law, the following crimes are considered to be felony offenses in North Port, FL.:
- Aggravated assault or battery.
- Burglary.
- Carrying a concealed weapon.
- Child abuse.
- Carjacking
- Domestic violence.
- Drug crimes, such as the trafficking, possession, or sale of illegal drugs.
- Felony DUI.
- Homicide or murder.
- Kidnapping.
- Resisting or assaulting an officer using violence.
- Robbery.
- Sex crimes, including rape, molestation, and sexual battery.
- Stalking.
- Grand theft, or the stealing of property, such as a car.
Many of these felonies involve violence against another person, which has the potential to result in serious injury or even death, hence the severe punishments. Depending on the circumstances of the case, such as the extent of the injury, a person can be charged with one or multiple felony crimes.
If you have been accused or charged with one or more of these crimes, then it is important that you seek legal support and receive advice straight away. At The Law Place in North Port, FL., our criminal defense lawyers are highly skilled in dealing with felony cases and can help guide you through the legal process.
Penalties for Felony Crimes in North Port
Although all the crimes mentioned above are classed as felonies, in the State of Florida, there is a numerical value assigned to felony offenses, which categorizes what type of felony is applied to the crime. This ranking system has been developed by the Florida State Legislature and works on a points system. For example, the higher that a criminal offense ranks, then the more points are given, and hence, the likelihood is that the punishments will be more severe.
As noted in Florida Statute 755.081, felonies can be broken down into the following categories:
- Capital Felony – A capital felony is the most serious felony that can be committed and is punishable by a lifetime behind bars without parole or the death penalty. An example of a capital felony would be first-degree murder.
- Life Felony – Second to a capital felony, a life felony is punishable by life imprisonment and a fine of up to $15,000.
- A Felony of the First Degree – A first-degree felony is punishable by up to 30 years in prison and up to $10,000 payable in fines. Aggravated battery or robbery is a prime example of this type of felony.
- A Felony of the Second Degree – An example of a second-degree felony could be burglary. A second-degree felony could result in up to 15 years behind bars and $10,000 payable in fines.
- A Felony of the Third Degree – A third-degree penalty could result in a fine of up to $5000 and up to 5 years in prison.
As noted in Florida Statute 775.084, Florida operates a scheme commonly known as ‘three strikes, and you’re out.’ Therefore, if a defendant has been convicted of two or more felony charges previously, and commit a third felony offense, then the penalties could be even more severe.
We’re here to serve you. Our phones are open 24 hours a day. Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code
Florida’s scoring system that is used to identify the minimum sentence for a charge is known as the Criminal Punishment Code (CPC). A felony charge is assigned an ‘offense level’ between 1 and 10 and carries a corresponding point value. The ‘offense level’ that is assigned to a specific crime depends on the circumstances of the crime and the amount of damage and injury caused. The more serious the crime, the higher the ranking and number of assigned points.
As an example, if a crime scores over 44 points, then it will tend to result in a minimum prison term, whereas a score of fewer than 44 points means that the judge is not required by law to send you to prison. However, depending on the circumstances of the incident, the judge may still choose to do so.
It is also worthwhile knowing that, depending on the circumstances of the felony, additional points may be added if the following occurs:
- A victim is injured as a result of the offense.
- There is a violation of legal status.
- There is a violation of firearms or weapons.
- There is a violation of community sanction.
- The perpetrator has been charged with prior felonies.
We’re Florida’s top litigation team with over 75 years of combined experience Additional Consequences Associated With Felony Crimes in North Port
In the event that you are convicted of a felony crime in North Port, FL., then it is highly likely that you will receive severe penalties for your actions, such as a hefty fine and time behind bars. In addition, it is also likely that you will incur long term ramifications as a result of being issued with a criminal record. Receiving a criminal record can have a lasting effect on you and your loved ones and may cause issues and difficulties later in life. These may include:
- Difficulties in starting or continuing education.
- Difficulty in applying for loans, overdrafts, mortgages, and other finance.
- Difficulty in applying for types of licenses.
- Difficulty in applying for rental agreements.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers. How Can a North Port Criminal Defense Attorney From The Law Place Can Help?
When facing felony charges, having a skilled criminal defense attorney is essential. At The Law Place, we are committed to helping our clients navigate these challenging situations and achieve the best possible outcome. Here’s how we can assist:
David A. Haenel brings a unique perspective as a former State DUI Prosecutor of the Year. With his background, he understands how the prosecution approaches serious cases like DUI manslaughter and reckless driving. This allows him to anticipate strategies used against you and develop defense approaches designed to counter their arguments effectively. His history of positive outcomes demonstrates his dedication to achieving the best results for his clients, even in severe cases.
AnneMarie Rizzo offers extensive experience in handling complex criminal cases, including those involving capital offenses and other significant charges. Her knowledge of forensic evidence and her certification as a Forensic Lawyer-Scientist make her especially skilled at analyzing evidence. Whether she’s challenging evidence in court or negotiating with the prosecutor, her thorough approach ensures every detail is carefully examined to build a strong case.
Facing felony charges can be life-altering, and it’s important to seek guidance as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can help you understand the legal process, explain your options, and work to reduce potential penalties. At The Law Place, we take pride in supporting our clients at every step of their journey.
From the moment you walk into our North Port office, our team will work to gather key information and evidence during a free initial consultation. Here, we will offer no-obligation advice on how to move forward. If you choose to continue with us, we will conduct an in-depth review of your case, examining the evidence and details to develop a solid defense strategy. Our goal is to negotiate with the prosecution and, whenever possible, reduce charges and penalties while fighting for the best resolution.
We understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with facing felony charges. That’s why we are dedicated to guiding you through this process with clarity and care, working tirelessly to protect your rights and secure your future.
North Port Felonies Lawyer, FAQ
What is considered a felony in Florida?
Felonies in Florida are serious crimes that carry severe consequences. They range from non-violent offenses to capital offenses such as murder, which can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Felonies are categorized into degrees, with first-degree felonies carrying the most significant punishments short of capital crimes. If you’re facing a criminal charge in North Port, understanding the classification of the alleged offense is critical in building the best possible defense.
Can traffic violations lead to felony charges?
Yes, certain traffic violations can escalate to felonies depending on the circumstances. Examples include DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, or severe reckless driving cases involving injuries or fatalities. These offenses are treated as felonies due to their severe consequences and may result in serious penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines.
How can a felony conviction negatively impact my future?
A felony conviction can negatively impact your life in numerous ways, from limiting employment opportunities to losing civil rights such as voting or owning a firearm. Additionally, it can affect housing prospects and your ability to secure loans. A skilled attorney can help defend against these charges to protect your future and minimize the long-term consequences.
What role does the state prosecutor play in felony cases?
The state prosecutor represents the government in felony criminal cases. Their job is to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the accused committed the crime. Prosecutors often have extensive resources at their disposal, which makes securing skilled representation essential for anyone facing a felony trial in North Port.
What should I do immediately after a felony arrest?
After an arrest, it’s critical to remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Avoid discussing the matter with law enforcement until you have consulted a defense attorney. The sooner you engage legal representation, the better your chances are of crafting the best possible defense for your case.
How important is trial preparation in felony cases?
Trial preparation is crucial in felony cases. A thorough understanding of the evidence, witness statements, and applicable laws is necessary to mount an effective defense. An experienced attorney will work diligently to investigate the case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument, and present the best possible defense in court.
Local Resources for North Port Felony Cases
- Sarasota County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller – Provides resources like court records, legal forms, and procedural guidance for felony cases occurring in Sarasota County, helping defendants navigate the legal process effectively.
- Charlotte County Clerk of the Circuit Court – Offers access to records, forms, and legal information for felony cases originating in Charlotte County, supporting residents with court-related needs.
- The Law Place – With practice areas covering Sarasota and Charlotte Counties, The Law Place offers experienced attorneys dedicated to providing the best possible defense for individuals facing felony charges in North Port. Their skilled representation can help mitigate serious penalties and navigate complex criminal cases.
- Sarasota County Reentry Services – Provides programs and support to help individuals transition back into the community after incarceration, focusing on reducing recidivism through education, employment assistance, and counseling.
- Charlotte County Reentry Program – Offers similar services in Charlotte County, assisting former offenders with resources to facilitate successful reintegration and prevent future offenses.
- Sarasota County Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services – Provides treatment programs for individuals whose felony charges are related to substance abuse or mental health issues, aiming to address underlying problems contributing to criminal behavior.
- Charlotte Behavioral Health Care – Offers comprehensive mental health and substance abuse services in Charlotte County, supporting individuals in overcoming challenges that may have led to criminal activity.
- Sarasota County Probation Services – Assists individuals on probation with resources and guidance to comply with probation terms, reducing the likelihood of reoffending.
- Charlotte County Probation Department – Provides supervision and support for probationers, helping them adhere to legal requirements and encouraging positive community involvement.
These resources ensure residents across North Port, spanning Sarasota and Charlotte Counties, have access to vital support during challenging legal situations.
Speak to an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you have been accused or charged with a felony crime, then we strongly advise that you contact our law firm today. At The Law Place, our North Port criminal defense attorneys are highly knowledgeable in dealing with felony cases.
We understand how daunting facing criminal charges can be, which is why, at The Law Place, we pride ourselves on developing trusting and open attorney-client relationships. A North Port criminal defense attorney will support you throughout the process and work at developing a strong defense strategy that puts you in the best possible position of reducing or eliminating penalties.
What are you waiting for? Call The Law Place on (941) 444-4444 and speak to a Florida criminal defense attorney today to get started with your case. Our phone lines are open around the clock, so we can be on hand to provide information and support whenever you need it.
