Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been accused of a crime, the outcome of your case can impact the rest of your life. From steep fines to lengthy jail terms, the prospect of facing these penalties can leave you feeling hopeless. The good news is that a dedicated defense attorney could help you face those charges and offer the best chance of a favorable outcome.
Let a Florida criminal defense lawyer from our firm advise you of your options and identify the potential legal jeopardy you currently face. Reach out today to begin working with an advocate.
Common Criminal Offenses
State law separates every criminal offense into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are the least serious of the two, but they can lead to as much as one year in jail. Felonies are the most significant charges under state law. They carry more than a year in prison, with some offenses leading to a sentence of life behind bars.
A Florida criminal defense attorney could assist with either category. Some of the offenses that are frequently charged include the following:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Drug charges
- Assault
- Domestic Violence
- Gun charges
- Sex crimes
- Theft
- Traffic violations
The penalties associated with these offenses can vary. Other circumstances, such as a person’s criminal history or specific details regarding a defendant, can also impact a potential sentence.
Potential Favorable Outcomes
The ultimate goal of a criminal defense attorney in Florida is to secure the best possible result based on the facts. When the state’s case is weak, there may be an opportunity to see the charges dropped by the prosecutor. This eliminates the stress and worry that comes with taking a case to trial.
However, the state is not always willing to dismiss their case. In some situations, the best option is to take the case to trial and fight for an acquittal. There is always risk associated with this option, but a victory will mean the state can never file these charges again.
When prosecutors have enough evidence to obtain a conviction, negotiating a plea bargain may be a good idea. The state may agree to reduce the offense or drop the threat of incarceration. The available options will depend on the details of the situation.
Defenses in a Criminal Case
Obtaining a positive outcome starts with a strong defense strategy. Prosecutors will have little reason to dismiss a case or agree to a reasonable plea deal without one. Given the wide range of criminal offenses, it should come as no surprise that there are numerous strategies for each type.
When it comes to violent offenses, self-defense is a common approach. A person accused of these charges could seek to avoid a conviction by showing that they were responding to an imminent threat or bodily harm.
In many sex crimes cases, consent is a prominent defense. When a person is accused of rape or sexual assault, evidence that the other party was a willing participant is powerful. Our team will carefully examine all relevant information to determine the best approach for a particular situation.
Talk to a Criminal Defense Attorney in Florida for Guidance
If you are dealing with charges following an arrest, now is the right time to speak with legal counsel. Having the support of an attorney could make a tremendous difference in the outcome of your case.
Let the team at Price Benowitz advise you of your options. Call today for a private consultation with a Florida criminal defense lawyer.
