Felonies

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Felonies in Florida-Choosing a felony defense lawyer

homicide1400wMost felonies are dealt with in other areas of this website in more detail.  Felonies can be serious charges and a conviction can have lifetime consequences even if you do not go to jail or prison.  If it is not a first felony charge, consequences can be even more critical. Sentencing codes come in to effect as well as possible designations as a habitual offender and other enhancements.  Felonies are classified as either life felonies, first-degree felonies, second-degree felonies, or third-degree felony. It penalty for a life felony is up to life in prison, for a first-degree felony is up to 30 years in prison, for a second-degree felony is up to 15 years in prison, and for a third-degree felony is up to five years in prison. Felonies can be increased in the degree of felony by certain aggravating factors such as possession of a firearm during commission of a felony or other aggravating factors. Many felonies carry minimum sentencing provisions.

If you do nothing else you should consult with an experienced felony defense attorney, preferably one who has attained Board Certification as a Criminal Trial Lawyer in Florida.  Larry Sandefer has the qualifications, reputation,  and extensive experience.  And, the initial consultation is absolutely free with no obligation, and it is priveleged and confidential.  Call us now.

Sentencing code

Most felonies are subject to the sentencing code contained in Florida statute Chapter 921. Each crime is assigned a point value. Point values are created for prior convictions as well as any present pending charges. The scoresheet is created by the office of the state attorney adding the score of the primary pending offense and any additional pending offenses. A score is added for a prior record and then a score is added for any injuries or for sexual contact. Points may be added for a legal status such as a bond violation or a violation of probation. A score is obtained and then a formula is used under which it is determined if the charges call for a minimum prison sentence upon conviction. Even if the code calls for a minimum prison sentence, sometimes mitigating circumstances found in Chapter 921 can be presented to the judge or the prosecuting authority to try to obtain a lower sentence or a non-prison sentence. There may also be available prison diversion programs or residential drug treatment alternatives. Certain types of charges supersede punishment code such as the use or discharge of a firearm during the commission of certain felonies. This may fall under Florida’s 10 – 20 – life sentencing statute.

Sealing or expungement

In certain instances after he cases completed, and if a withholding of adjudication for pretrial intervention had been secured, the case may be subject to being. You should ask your attorney if your case may have the potential and how this can occur.

Specific felonies or crimes

In this website we have attempted to provide information on certain felonies for other offenses. Please see the list on the lower right on this page for specific information about specific charges and click on the one that applies. If you have any questions you are encouraged to call or contact us. Larry Sandefer has been handling criminal matters for over 30 years from both the prosecution and defense. His extensive experience allows him to help you and provide information to you regarding your charges and defenses as well as alternatives and options available to you. Contact Florida Felony Lawyer Larry Sandefer today. We are here to help you.

All initial consultations are at no charge and are held in confidence.

Contact Florida Felony Lawyers, Clearwater Felony Lawyer, Pinellas County Felony Lawyer, and St. Petersburg Felony Lawyer

Larry Sandefer – Criminal Defense Attorney handling all felony matters