Criminal Defense | Peeler Law Firm, PLLC

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Experienced Florida Criminal Defense Attorney

Depending on the severity, all criminal charges come with some variation of penalties. Maybe the charges stem from a DUI, or other misdemeanor, that carries potential jail time and significant court fees, or is a felony with life-changing consequences. An attorney can clearly explain the charges, potential defenses, possible resolution consideration and ramifications, and your options. A criminal record of any nature can have negative effects on your future.

Regardless of the severity, the guidance of an experienced criminal attorney is one of the most important choices you can make. Whether you are charged with a minor infraction or serious felony with significant jail time at stake, we can help. Peeler Law Firm, PLLC, has helped many individuals with criminal defense matters with over three decades of experience. Don’t hesitate to call us at 850-332-5555 or complete our online form here to schedule a free consultation.

FELONY CHARGES

The term "felony" means any criminal offense that is punishable under the laws of Florida, by death or imprisonment in the state penitentiary. A person must be exposed to imprisonment in the state penitentiary for each sentence which exceeds one year. All felonies are punishable by incarceration in state prison.

There are five categories of felonies per the Florida legislature: capital felony, life felony, felony of the first degree, felony of the second degree, and felony of the third degree.

Sections 775.082 and 775.083, Florida Statutes, address penalties and sentencing structures for felonies in Florida. A capital felony offense can result in a sentence of death or life imprisonment. For a felony of the first degree, a term of imprisonment cannot exceed 30 years. A term of imprisonment cannot exceed 15 years for a second-degree felony. For a felony of the third degree, a term of imprisonment cannot exceed 5 years.

Various charges involving felonies may include:

Aggravated battery
Burglary
Drug possession and trafficking
DUI charges (excessive DUI's, and/or involving personal or property damage)
Grand theft
Fraud
Sexual assaults
Gun possession by a felon

misdemeanor CHARGES

The term "misdemeanor" means any criminal offense that is punishable under the laws of the state of Florida by a term of imprisonment in a county correctional facility, not in excess of one year. Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies and are further divided by degree. Section 775.082, Florida Statutes. Misdemeanors of the second degree may be punished by a statutory maximum of up to 60 days in county jail; first degree misdemeanors may be punishable by up to a year in county jail. See also Section 775.083, Florida Statutes.

A Court may also impose probationary sentences for misdemeanors up to the statutory maximum for the offense. Punishment for a second degree misdemeanor thus can include up to six months probation, while for a first degree offense it can be up to a year of probation. The Court can also combine incarceration with probation.

Typical misdemeanors include: