Felonious crimes can come with consequences that significantly alter the course of your life for years to come. Reach out to the experienced defense attorneys at O'Mara Law Group for the legal assistance you need.
What Is a Felony Offense?
A felony is a crime punishable by a prison term in a state penitentiary. For the most serious felony crimes, the penalty is death. State law on the classification of felony and misdemeanor offenses is found in the Florida Statutes Section 775.081. The law classifies felonies into five categories, which are listed here, from least to most serious:
Third-Degree Felony
Although this is the least serious felony class, a crime in this category is punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Crimes that may be charged as third-degree felonies include forgery, identity theft, aggravated assault, drug possession with intent to distribute, burglary, embezzlement, and a third or subsequent DUI within 10 years of a previous DUI.
Second-Degree Felony
Penalties for a second-degree felony offense may include up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples of crimes that may be charged as second-degree felonies include DUI manslaughter, drug distribution involving large quantities of a controlled substance, aggravated domestic battery with a weapon, burglary of an occupied building, and embezzlement of $20,000 to $100,000.
First-Degree Felony
These felonies are punishable by up to thirty years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Drug trafficking, possession of a firearm by a violent career criminal, second-degree murder, burglary with assault or battery, and embezzlement of $100,000 or more are examples of crimes that may be charged as first-degree felonies.
Life Felony
A crime charged as a life felony carries a penalty of life in prison without the possibility of parole and a fine of up to $15,000. Drug trafficking with exceptionally large quantities of controlled substances and some cases of second-degree murder may be charged as life felonies.
Capital Felony
As the most serious felony class, a capital felony is punishable by life in prison without possibility of parole or the death penalty. This felony classification is reserved for the most serious crimes, such as first-degree murder. Florida is notorious for continuing to execute offenders, unlike many states.
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What Are the Defense Strategies Against Felony Charges?
Building a robust defense against felony charges requires a proactive approach and an in-depth understanding of Florida’s criminal laws. Depending on the circumstances of your case, our felony defense attorneys in Orlando may employ a variety of strategies, including the following:
- Challenging the evidence: We evaluate the evidence to be used in the case against you, challenging any irregularities and ensuring the evidence was obtained without violating your constitutional rights. If there was an unlawful search and seizure, we fight to have the evidence suppressed.
- Investigating police conduct: We review the actions of law enforcement officers to identify any rights violations, such as coercion during questioning or failure to read Miranda rights.
- Plea bargaining: Negotiating a plea deal may lead to reduced charges or lighter sentencing. We discuss these options with our clients and pursue all legal actions that are in their best interests.
- Thorough trial preparation: If your case goes to trial, we are ready to advocate vigorously, challenging the prosecution’s narrative at every stage with a well-prepared, persuasive defense case.
Why Choose Our Firm for Felony Defense in Florida?
Our board-certified felony defense attorneys at O’Mara Law Group practice statewide for criminal defense. We have over 40 years of experience and some notable victories that have gained national recognition, defending clients facing serious felony charges. We keep you informed throughout every step of the process and are available to speak with our clients day or night. Call us for skilled legal defense against felony charges in Florida.
