When you are charged with a crime, it can be terrifying to find out that you may be facing extensive prison time, costly fines, and other harsh penalties that can affect your freedom and finances. Most people are unaware of the legal complexities involved in a criminal case and it can be frustrating not knowing how the process works. Palm Beach County criminal lawyers understand this and are devoted to making sure you know what is going on during the entire legal process from start to finish.

Since every criminal case is so different, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced defense attorney. Individuals can inform you of your individual legal options, go over any of your potential penalties, form a solid strategy for defending your best interests and make a plan to seek a Dismissal of the charges against you.

Types of Crimes in Florida

Crimes in Florida are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the type of crime and the circumstances surrounding it. As the severity of the crime increases, so do the penalties.

For example, many traffic violations are considered second-degree misdemeanors, but a first offense DUI is a first-degree misdemeanor and a third-time DUI is considered a third-degree felony if it occurs within ten years of a prior conviction.

Vehicular homicide could be considered either a second-degree felony or a first-degree felony.

Common misdemeanor crimes in the State of Florida include:

  • Possession of marijuana less than 20 grams
  • Simple Assault
  • Petit theft (which involves stealing less than $300 worth of items)
  • Carrying a concealed weapon

Crimes that are commonly charged as felonies in Florida include:

  • White-collar crimes (tax fraud, embezzlement, bribery, forgery, identity theft, etc.)
  • Sexual battery or rape
  • Drug trafficking
  • Aggravated battery
  • Possession of Controlled Substances without a Prescription

Potential Criminal Penalties in Palm Beach County

Many times, Judges use their own discretion when making penalty decisions. Penalties for certain crimes can also fluctuate depending on potential plea bargains.

However, The Florida Statutes (Chapter 775) outline minimum and maximum penalties for every level of misdemeanor and felony. Penalties for crimes in Florida range from probation or a few days in jail and small fines to life imprisonment or even a death sentence.

It is important to note, however, that both misdemeanors and felonies can give you a criminal record, regardless of the severity of the crime.

A criminal attorney in Palm Beach County can explain the potential consequences in your specific case.

Developing a Strategy to Fight Criminal Charges

A Palm Beach County criminal lawyer can provide assistance in a number of ways. Since no two cases are the same, dedicated attorneys will devote their time and effort towards investigating the details of your case and giving you personalized legal assistance. They can also help you by:

  • Fighting to get your charges downgraded or reduced
  • Representing you in all court proceedings
  • Making sure the necessary paperwork is properly filled out and filed
  • Speaking with police officers on your behalf
  • Building a personalized defense strategy
  • Obtaining results that avoid a criminal conviction or incarceration

Why Hire a Local Palm Beach County Criminal Attorney

When you are looking for a criminal defense lawyer, it is essential to work with someone who understands the local courts, knows other lawyers in the area, and is familiar with local Judges and Prosecutors. Communication is vital, so developing a relationship with a lawyer who has offices in your local area makes it easier to stay in contact. If you are in the Palm Beach County area, our criminal attorneys are ready to help you. If you have been charged with a crime our Palm Beach County criminal attorneys are ready to zealously fight to protect your rights and limit the negative effects a criminal conviction can have on your life.

Palm Beach County Criminal Lawyer
Palm Beach Gardens
  • Palm Beach Gardens
  • 800 Village Square Crossing
    Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
  • Wellington
  • 12230 Forest Hill Blvd
    Wellington, FL 33414
  • Ft Lauderdale
  • 6550 N. Federal Highway
    Suite #220
    Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
  • West Palm Beach
  • 2101 Vista Parkway
    #1006
    West Palm Beach, FL 33411
  • Delray Beach
  • 2160 W Atlantic Ave
    2nd Floor
    Delray Beach, FL 33445
  • Plantation
  • 1200 S Pine Island Rd
    #220
    Plantation, FL 33324
  • Boca Raton
  • 10055 Yamato Road
    Suite 509
    Boca Raton, FL 33498
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  • Boca Raton
  • 10055 Yamato Road
    Suite 509
    Boca Raton, FL 33498
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  • Plantation
  • 1200 S Pine Island Rd
    #220
    Plantation, FL 33324
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  • Delray Beach
  • 2160 W Atlantic Ave
    2nd Floor
    Delray Beach, FL 33445
Delray Beach
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  • West Palm Beach
  • 2101 Vista Parkway
    #1006
    West Palm Beach, FL 33411
west palm beach location
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  • Ft Lauderdale
  • 6550 N. Federal Highway
    Suite #220
    Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
Ft Lauderdale
Get Direction
  • Wellington
  • 12230 Forest Hill Blvd
    Wellington, FL 33414
Wellington
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  • Palm Beach Gardens
  • 800 Village Square Crossing
    Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Palm Beach  Gardens
Palm Beach  Gardens
Wellington
Ft Lauderdale
west palm beach location
Delray Beach
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