Longwood Felony Lawyer

Longwood Felony Attorney

Facing felony charges in Longwood is a big deal. Felonies are considered the most serious crimes and carry significant penalties. To protect your future, get the advice of a Longwood felony lawyer.

Robert B. Fisher, P.A., is an experienced trial lawyer who has spent decades working with cases across Florida. Whatever your felony charge, our office can build a strong defense and skillfully present it on your behalf.

What Qualifies as a Felony in Florida?

Many crimes can be considered felonies, and the same crime will sometimes be a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on its severity. With Longwood’s total crime rate of 1,864.6, it’s important to understand which crimes might be considered a felony. These include: 

• Aggravated assault
• Grand theft, burglary, and robbery
• All sex crimes
• Drug crimes
• Kidnapping
• Murder
• Arson
• Child pornography

When you’re facing charges, you should know exactly what you’re being charged with. This lets your attorney build a stronger defense plan, and you can know what consequences you might be facing.

Longwood Felony Penalties

Penalties for felonies are based on their classification and severity. Florida felony laws establish five ranks of felonies, from least to most severe: 

1. Third degree
2. Second degree
3. First degree
4. Life
5. Capital

In the most recent year data is available for, FY 2019-2020, Seminole County had 2,225 felony filings. These filings encompassed many degrees of felony. All felonies, regardless of degree, can be punished with a prison sentence.

The more severe the felony, the higher the possible prison sentence or fine may be. Capital offenses, considered the worst felonies, are punishable with the death penalty. This is typically reserved for cases involving sex crimes, murder, or similarly severe offenses.

On top of prison sentences and fines, felonies can carry other long-term consequences, such as: 

• Loss of your right to vote
• Being unable to own firearms
• Difficulty getting employment
• Being denied housing
• Lack of access to social support programs

It’s also important to understand the common reasons one might be charged with a felony. Many people don’t realize that even small drug crimes can be felonies in Florida. Across the country, 42% of federal inmates are incarcerated for drug-related crimes. Offenses like stalking, aggravated assault, or gun crimes can also easily become felony cases.

Elements of a Felony Defense

When you hire a felony lawyer, they can work to create a defense that fits your case. Each case is unique and must be treated as such. However, common elements are often used in felony defense: 

• Validity of evidence. Your attorney can question whether evidence was obtained lawfully and if it’s relevant to your case.
• Unlawful treatment. If your rights were violated during an arrest or investigation, it can undermine the prosecution’s case.
• Alibi. Providing evidence to prove that you couldn’t have committed the alleged crime may lead a jury to find you not guilty.

When there is an overwhelming amount of evidence against you, your Longwood felony attorney could also advocate for reduced charges or a plea deal if you think that supports your goals. You should work closely with your defense lawyer to determine what your options are. Be honest with them about what solutions you’re willing to consider, as that can inform their strategy.

Former Prosecutor

Call 407-389-4529 or contact the office online to schedule your initial consultation.

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Reasons to Hire a Felony Lawyer

A felony conviction in Longwood is a serious ordeal. Felonies are considered the most severe crimes, and you may be facing experienced and skilled prosecutors. A great way to build a defense is to work with an equally experienced and skilled attorney who knows how to counter the prosecutor’s strategy.

When defending you against a felony charge, a lawyer can: 

• Gather evidence relevant to your case.
• Challenge the validity of the prosecution’s evidence.
• Question the actions of law enforcement.
• Represent you in the courtroom.
• Advise you on possible plea deals and other options.

FAQs

How Much Does a Felony Defense Attorney Cost in Florida

Each felony defense attorney may have their own fees and fee structure, so the cost can vary. More complex cases can also require higher fees. The only way to know how much your case might cost is to consult an attorney. You can ask about their fees and how they think your case should be valued.

Can a Felony Charge Be Dropped in Florida?

Yes, a felony charge can be dropped in Florida. Typically, charges are dropped due to an overwhelming lack of evidence from the prosecution. Your defense attorney can also advocate to have your charges dropped. Even if your charges aren’t dropped, there may be other favorable outcomes for your specific case.

Can a Lawyer Get You Out of a Felony Charge?

A lawyer can sometimes get you out of a felony charge, yes. With a strong defense and aggressive representation, it is possible to present a case that results in charges being dropped or convinces a jury that you are not guilty. Each case will have its own challenges and should be treated as a unique situation.

Do Felonies Go Away After Seven Years in Florida?

No, felonies do not go away after seven years in Florida. In fact, without any sort of intervention, they are likely to stay with you for the rest of your life. Florida does not automatically seal or expunge most records. However, if you were not found guilty, you might seek an expungement of your record for this case.

Aggressive Felony Defense From Robert B. Fisher, P.A.

Robert B. Fisher, P.A., was a prosecutor before making the switch to criminal defense. He knows the strategies Florida prosecutors often use and how to build a defense strategy to counter them. With over 45 years of experience in law, your case could benefit from his work.

A felony can follow you for the rest of your life. Working with the right lawyer can sometimes mean the difference between a normal life and life behind bars. If you’re facing felony charges, schedule a free consultation with our office. You can tell us about your case, and we can come up with a plan to protect your rights and future.