West Palm Beach Felony Defense Attorney

Felony of the First Degree

These crimes are classified as the “first,” but there are still some felonies in Florida that have harsher sentences.

Examples include:

• Carjacking
• Home Invasion Robbery
• Drug Trafficking
• Aggravated Child Abuse
• Burglary with an Assault or Battery

These crimes can lead to up to 30 years in prison, up to 30 years of probation, and up to $10,00 in fines. Some first-degree felonies, such as Burglary with an Assault or Battery, are reclassified as first-degree felonies punishable by life (“PBL”). As the name suggests, these felonies are punishable by up to life in prison.

Life and Capital Felonies

These crimes can result in life in prison without the possibility of parole. First-degree murder is the one capital felony in Florida that is still punishable by death.

Other examples include:

• Capital Sexual Battery
• Human Trafficking of a Child for Commercial Sexual Activity

Enhanced Sentences for Felonies in Florida

If you’ve been previously convicted of a felony, you may face even harsher penalties. In Florida, judges can extend prison sentences for so-called repeat offenders.

Florida’s Point-Based System for Felonies

Sentencing is also determined by a point system known as the Criminal Punishment Code. A person’s “minimum recommended sentence” is determined by a “scoresheet” for alleged felonies. For different aspects of the crime, judges assign a number between 1 and 10. Points are assigned for things such as the crime’s severity, impact on the victim, and the accused’s criminal history.

Once the points are totaled, judges then assign a sentence. If, for instance, the score is lower than 44 points, a judge can order a non-prison sentence like community service, probation, prison diversion, etc. If a person is convicted of a felony and this person’s score is 44 points of more, a judge must impose a prison term unless there is a legal basis for a downward departure.

Trust Our Team to Handle Your Felony Charges

Our dedicated lawyer is experienced and award-winning. Attorney Greg Rosenfeld has argued in over 50 trials at both the state and federal levels, and he has received many accolades throughout his career. If you’re accused of a felony, our firm can help in a variety of ways. Be sure to choose an attorney who is well-versed in felony crimes and is committed to using their knowledge and experience to fight for you.

Turn to our West Palm Beach felony defense lawyer for help with your case. You can schedule time with us online today.