Criminal charges can range from minor charges like disorderly conduct to significant charges like aggravated assault and battery. No matter the type of criminal charges you are facing, representation by a Deerfield Beach criminal Lawyer can be essential to protecting your rights and your future. Getting legal advice as quickly as possible following your arrest may be the most successful means of minimizing the impact of criminal charges on your personal and professional life.
A skilled criminal Attorney at Leifert & Leifert can investigate the circumstances that led to your arrest and determine the defense strategy most likely to be effective in your case. Legal counsel can advocate on your behalf and work toward your stated goals for your situation. To get started on building a defense, be sure to schedule a consultation today.
Felony and Misdemeanor Charges in Deerfield Beach
Criminal charges vary widely in their severity, from low-level Misdemeanors to Felony offenses that carry the potential for lengthy prison terms. Generally, the maximum jail term for a Misdemeanor offense is one year. However, Felony offenses usually result in a prison sentence of one year ranging up to life in prison or the death penalty.
Criminal offenses are subdivided further into degrees based on the severity of the crimes. For instance, Misdemeanors may be first or second-degree offenses. Typical Misdemeanor crimes include disorderly conduct, possession of marijuana, and a first-time DUI.
On the other hand, Felony offenses cover a much more comprehensive range of behaviors. Many Felony offenses involve controlled substances, bodily harm to others, robbery, or burglary.
Common Types of Criminal Offenses
In addition to the degrees of Felonies and Misdemeanors, many crimes fall into general categories based on their nature. These categories include:
- Property crimes, such as retail theft, vandalism, and burglary
- Sex crimes, such as rape and sexual assault
- Crimes of violence against others, such as assault, battery, and robbery
- Drug and alcohol-related crimes, such as DUI and possession of controlled substances
Offenses that involve harm to others frequently result in more severe charges and accompanying penalties. The more severe the injury, the harsher these penalties may be. However, property and drug-related crimes, could also result in severe charges and penalties, mainly when they involve large amounts of Schedule I controlled substances or thousands of dollars in property or financial losses.
Likewise, when crimes impact others and cause them some harm, the charges and penalties often increase. For instance, distributing large amounts of controlled substances to others results in more significant charges than possessing small amounts of marijuana that is likely for personal use. A Deerfield Beach criminal Lawyer can explain the full implications of a conviction for any of these crimes.
How a Deerfield Beach Criminal Attorney Can Help You
Whether you need immediate representation against criminal charges, assisting restoring your driving privileges, or petitioning to have criminal records expunged, you likely will need legal advice. A Deerfield Beach criminal Lawyer at Leifert & Leifert can play a vital role in getting the legal relief that you need.
Criminal proceedings often are complicated, confusing, and involve multiple stages. Legal counsel can guide you through the various steps of your criminal case so that you better know what to expect. You also can get a clear assessment of your situation to pursue the best defense strategy possible. Schedule a consultation today to get started with your case.