Felony Attorney in Clermont, FL

Why Choose Us for Your Felony Defense?

Being accused of a felony offense in Clermont, FL, is an incredibly serious matter with potentially life-altering consequences. Unlike less severe crimes, a felony conviction can lead to significant prison time, hefty fines, and a lasting criminal record that impacts every aspect of your life – from employment and housing to voting rights and professional licenses. If you or a loved one is facing felony charges, the time to act is now. You need an experienced and dedicated Clermont felony lawyer who understands Florida's complex legal landscape and is prepared to fight tirelessly on your behalf.

At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we are committed to protecting the rights and futures of individuals accused of felony crimes in Clermont and throughout Lake County. We understand the fear and uncertainty that come with such charges, and we are here to provide compassionate, strategic, and aggressive legal representation from the moment you contact us. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, whether that involves negotiating a reduction of charges, seeking a dismissal, or mounting a vigorous defense at trial.

Contact us today at (888) 835-5840 to schedule your consultation and take the first critical step toward protecting your rights.

What is the Difference Between a Felony and Misdemeanor in Florida?

In Florida, criminal offenses are broadly categorized into two main types: misdemeanors and felonies. The fundamental difference lies in the severity of the crime and, consequently, the potential penalties.

Misdemeanors: These are considered less serious crimes. In Florida, misdemeanors are typically punishable by up to one year in a county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Examples include minor theft, simple battery, or first-time DUI offenses. Misdemeanors are further classified into:

• First-Degree Misdemeanors: Punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
• Second-Degree Misdemeanors: Punishable by up to 60 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.

Felonies: These are far more serious offenses, carrying much harsher penalties. A felony conviction in Florida means the potential for more than one year in state prison, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record. Felonies are classified into different degrees, reflecting their severity:

• Third-Degree Felonies: Punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Examples include grand theft (property valued over $750), felony battery, or possession of certain controlled substances.
• Second-Degree Felonies: Punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples include aggravated battery, vehicular homicide, or burglary of a dwelling.
• First-Degree Felonies: Punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. In some cases, a first-degree felony can be punishable by life imprisonment. Examples include carjacking, armed robbery, or aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.
• Life Felonies: Punishable by life imprisonment and a fine of up to $15,000. Examples include kidnapping a child under 13 with aggravating factors or sexual battery of a child under 12 causing injury.
• Capital Felonies: These are the most severe felony offenses in Florida, carrying the potential for the death penalty or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. First-degree murder is the most common example of a capital felony.

The consequences of a felony conviction extend far beyond immediate penalties, impacting your ability to secure employment, obtain housing, qualify for professional licenses, own firearms, and even vote.

Common Types of Felony Offenses in Clermont, FL

Our Clermont felony attorneys represent clients facing a wide range of felony charges, including but not limited to:

• Violent Crimes:
  • Murder (First-Degree, Second-Degree, Manslaughter)
  • Aggravated Assault
  • Aggravated Battery
  • Robbery
  • Kidnapping
  • Arson
• Drug Crimes:
  • Drug Trafficking
  • Drug Manufacture and Cultivation
  • Possession with Intent to Sell
  • Felony Drug Possession (e.g., possession of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine)
• Theft and Property Crimes:
  • Grand Theft (based on value of stolen property)
  • Burglary (of a dwelling, structure, or conveyance)
  • Dealing in Stolen Property
  • Fraud (e.g., grand theft by fraud, identity theft)
• Sex Crimes:
  • Sexual Battery
  • Child Molestation
  • Child Pornography
  • Lewd and Lascivious Molestation
• White-Collar Crimes:
  • Embezzlement
  • Money Laundering
  • Mortgage Fraud
  • Racketeering (RICO)
• Weapons Offenses:
  • Felon in Possession of a Firearm
  • Carrying a Concealed Weapon (without a permit)
  • Improper Exhibition of a Firearm
• DUI with Serious Injury or Death:
  • DUI Manslaughter
  • DUI with Serious Bodily Injury

Each of these offenses carries specific legal definitions and varying degrees of severity, requiring a nuanced and knowledgeable defense strategy.

Felony FAQs

Facing a felony charge can bring a whirlwind of questions. Here are some frequently asked questions we receive:

What should I do if I am arrested for a felony in Clermont?

The most important thing is to remain silent and immediately request an attorney. Do not answer any questions, sign any documents, or make any statements to law enforcement without your lawyer present. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?

In some cases, yes. Depending on the specific facts of your case, the strength of the evidence, and your criminal history, an experienced Clermont felony lawyer may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor.

What is the bond process for a felony?

After an arrest, a judge will typically set a bond amount, which is a sum of money you or someone on your behalf pays to ensure your appearance in court. Your attorney can argue for a lower bond amount or release on your own recognizance (ROR).

How long does a felony case take?

The timeline for a felony case can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the charges, the amount of evidence, and court availability. It can range from several months to over a year. Your attorney can provide a more specific estimate once they review your case.

Will a felony conviction always mean prison time?

Not necessarily. While felony charges carry the potential for prison, several factors can influence the outcome, including the specific degree of the felony, your criminal history, mitigating circumstances, and the effectiveness of your legal defense. In some instances, probation or alternative sentencing may be possible.

How Our Clermont Felony Lawyer Can Help You

When you choose The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, you are choosing a legal team dedicated to providing comprehensive and aggressive representation in your felony case. Our approach includes:

• Thorough Investigation: We meticulously examine all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and any other relevant documentation. We will identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case and explore all possible defense angles.
• Protecting Your Rights: From the moment of arrest through trial, we ensure that your constitutional rights are protected. This includes challenging unlawful searches and seizures, improper interrogations, and other procedural errors made by law enforcement.
• Strategic Defense Planning: Every felony case is unique. We develop a tailored defense strategy based on the specific facts of your case, the evidence available, and your individual circumstances. This might involve:
  • Arguing mistaken identity
  • Challenging the credibility of witnesses
  • Presenting an alibi
  • Demonstrating lack of intent
  • Highlighting self-defense
  • Seeking to suppress illegally obtained evidence
• Negotiation with Prosecutors: We are experienced negotiators and will aggressively pursue plea bargains, charge reductions, or diversion programs when it is in your best interest. Our aim is always to achieve the most favorable outcome, potentially avoiding a trial or reducing the severity of penalties.
• Courtroom Advocacy: If your case proceeds to trial, we are prepared to vigorously defend you in court. Our attorneys possess strong litigation skills and will present a compelling case to the judge and jury, challenging the prosecution's arguments and advocating for your innocence.
• Sentencing Mitigation: If a conviction occurs, we work to mitigate sentencing by presenting factors that may lead to a more lenient sentence, such as a lack of prior criminal history, rehabilitation efforts, or compelling personal circumstances.

Call (888) 835-5840 or contact us online today, and let us provide the guidance you need to move forward with confidence.