Felony Defense lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
Getting charged with a felony is of the utmost seriousness. A conviction will likely result in prison time and a fine. Depending on the nature of your crime, a sentence could affect the rest of your life and that of your loved ones.
You need someone on your side to protect your rights. The Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A., will vigorously represent you and fight for your interests. We will gather evidence, interview witnesses, review police reports, and consider all the facts of your case. You can expect strictly confidential communication. Our Fort Lauderdale felony defense lawyer will work diligently to provide you with an effective defense strategy.
Common Felony Charges That Defense Lawyers Defend
Felonies in Florida are divided into five categories. These are third-degree felonies, second-degree felonies, first-degree felonies, life felonies, and capital felonies. The list of crimes in these categories is long, but some of the most common include:
- assault and battery
- carjacking
- homicide
- kidnapping
- robbery
- grand theft
If you have been arrested and charged with any of these crimes, schedule a free consultation with a Fort Lauderdale felony defense lawyer today.
First-, Second-, And Third-Degree Felonies
Typical third-degree felonies include burglary, third DUI and beyond, and cocaine possession. Conviction of a third-degree felony will come with a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. There can also be additional court-mandated restitution payments to the victim.
Second-degree felonies carry sentences of up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000, along with restitution payments. Common second-degree felonies are aggravated battery with a weapon, child abuse, possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, and sexual battery.
A first-degree felony carries a punishment of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000, plus possible restitution payments. DUI manslaughter, first-degree homicide, human trafficking, and robbery with a weapon are examples of first-degree felonies.
Life And Capital Felonies And Their Punishments
The two most serious criminal charges are life felony and capital felony. Both have lengthy prison terms and fines. Examples of life felonies are violent crimes such as kidnapping, possessing or using a weapon of mass destruction, unpremeditated murder, and molestation of a victim less than 12 years old. A person convicted of a life felony will spend a minimum of 40 years in prison with the possibility of remaining behind bars for life. Fines can reach $15,000, not including required restitution payments to victims.
A capital felony will carry a punishment of death or life in prison without the possibility of parole. These include murder, armed kidnapping, and capital drug trafficking.
If you have any of these charges, you need an experienced Fort Lauderdale felony defense attorney to represent you. Your lawyer can help you build a strong defense by carefully reviewing the charges and all the facts of your case.
How Your Attorney Will Build Your Case
Your Fort Lauderdale felony defense lawyer will utilize various strategies to reduce the severity of your punishment or have the charges dismissed altogether. Your counsel may determine that the circumstances of your arrest were improper or violated your rights. This will include reviewing the process of how officers gathered evidence against you. Other tactics may be to prove you had an alibi or that you acted in self-defense. Your lawyer may be able to show that there is not sufficient proof to tie you to the crime.
What To Expect From Your Attorney
The Law Offices of R. David Williams will devote every reasonable effort to your defense. As your advocate, our Fort Lauderdale felony defense lawyer has your best interests at heart and will explore every possible way to build an effective defense strategy. You can expect a compassionate, honest, and determined lawyer at every stage of the process. Call us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.