Pinellas Park Felony Lawyer
Felonies are the most serious crimes in Florida. Anyone convicted of a felony can face time in prison, fines, and community service. You might also end up on probation or parole for years, which has restrictions.
Contact The Reep Law Firm to talk about any pending felony charges. Our firm can step in and argue for your right to bail. We will also review whether the evidence against you is strong or if you have valid defenses to raise. Call to speak with a Pinellas Park felony lawyer today.
Felonies Carry Stiff Penalties
Florida classifies penalties by degree and assigns different sentencing ranges to each. Here is an overview:
- Capital felony. This is the most serious offense. First-degree murder is an example. You can end up in jail for life and possibly receive the death penalty.
- Life felony. A defendant can face life in prison if convicted.
- First-degree felony. Anyone convicted of a first-degree felony can face up to 30 years in prison.
- Second-degree felony. A maximum of 15 years in prison if convicted.
- Third-degree felony. The least serious felony, a third-degree felony can still send you to prison for up to 5 years.
The sentences listed above are for a first-time offender. What if you have a prior felony conviction? You might end up serving an even longer sentence. Consult an experienced criminal defense attorney to learn more about your possible sentence if convicted.
Some defendants will serve less time. For example, you may be eligible for a sentencing alternative, such as probation or split sentences, which will allow you to spend some or all of your sentence outside prison.
Consequences of a Felony Conviction
A felony does more than send people to prison. Felons also lose important rights:
- Right to vote. A felon cannot vote while serving out the terms of their sentence. Once that is completed, some felons can regain the right to vote while others cannot unless they receive a pardon.
- Right to serve on a jury. Felons are prohibited from serving on a jury until they complete their sentence.
- Gun rights. A felon will lose the ability to possess a gun legally. If you want to have a gun, you should work with an attorney.
Other negative consequences include having to discuss the felony whenever someone pulls a background check. Employers often check background history before extending an offer of employment, as do landlords.
Fight Back—Call Our Pinellas Park Felony Lawyers Today
Felonies change lives. The lawyers at The Reep Law Firm are prepared to seek a favorable resolution to your case. Our defense strategies depend on the facts surrounding the crime and your arrest. We might ask a judge to dismiss the charges for prosecutorial misconduct or negotiate a plea deal for a reduced charge. Some sentencing alternatives allow a defendant to avoid an extended time behind bars. In other cases, we can fight your charges in court and even argue for an acquittal to a jury. Talk with us to discuss your case with a Pinellas Park felony lawyer.
