Four Corners Felony Defense Attorney

Facing a Felony Offense in Four Corners, FL?

Being charged with a felony crime in Florida is one of the most serious legal situations a person can face. A felony conviction can result in years behind bars, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and even civil rights. If you or someone you love has been accused of a felony, you need an experienced felony defense lawyer who understands how to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your future.

At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we provide strategic, aggressive defense representation for individuals accused of felony crimes throughout Four Corners and the surrounding areas. Our team knows how Florida courts handle felony charges and will fight tirelessly to ensure your rights are upheld every step of the way.

Reach out at (888) 835-5840 and schedule your confidential consultation to start building a strong foundation for your defense.

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

In Florida, criminal offenses are divided into two primary categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The difference lies in the severity of the offense and the potential penalties.

Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, such as petty theft, disorderly conduct, or simple battery. These are punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines of up to $1,000.

Felonies, on the other hand, are much more serious. They include crimes like burglary, aggravated assault, drug trafficking, and homicide. Felonies carry penalties ranging from more than one year in state prison to life imprisonment or even the death penalty in certain cases.

A felony conviction also carries collateral consequences beyond prison time. Convicted felons lose the right to vote, own firearms, and hold certain professional licenses. They may also face challenges securing employment or housing due to their criminal record.

Because of these severe and lasting consequences, it’s essential to work with a skilled felony defense lawyer in Four Corners who can develop a strong legal strategy and explore all available defenses.

Common Types of Felony Offenses

Florida law defines several classes of felonies, and each carries distinct penalties depending on the nature of the crime and whether it involved aggravating factors such as violence or use of a weapon. Some of the most common felony charges include:

• Violent Crimes: These include offenses such as murder, manslaughter, aggravated assault, and armed robbery. Violent felonies are prosecuted aggressively and often carry long prison sentences, sometimes without the possibility of parole.
• Drug Crimes: Felony drug charges may involve the possession, trafficking, distribution, or manufacture of controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or prescription medications. The severity depends on the drug type, amount, and intent.
• Sex Crimes: Charges like sexual battery, lewd and lascivious acts, and possession of child pornography are all classified as felonies. Convictions often require mandatory sex offender registration and can result in life-changing consequences.
• Property Crimes: Crimes such as burglary, grand theft, arson, and fraud are considered felonies when the property involved exceeds a certain value or when the crime involves aggravating circumstances.
• White Collar Crimes: Felony-level white collar crimes include embezzlement, identity theft, money laundering, and healthcare fraud. Though nonviolent, these offenses can carry serious penalties, including prison and restitution.
• DUI Manslaughter and Vehicular Homicide: If a driver causes a fatal accident while impaired or driving recklessly, they may face felony charges with potential decades-long prison sentences.

No matter the type of felony charge you are facing, The Law Offices of Justin Rickman can help. Our experienced defense attorneys have handled cases ranging from complex white collar investigations to high-stakes violent crime trials.

Felony Penalties in FL

Florida law categorizes felonies into five degrees, each with specific sentencing guidelines under Florida Statutes § 775.082–775.084:

• Capital Felony: Punishable by death or life imprisonment without parole (e.g., first-degree murder).
• Life Felony: Punishable by life in prison and up to a $15,000 fine (e.g., certain sexual battery offenses).
• First-Degree Felony: Up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine (e.g., aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, drug trafficking).
• Second-Degree Felony: Up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine (e.g., burglary of a dwelling, aggravated assault).
• Third-Degree Felony: Up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine (e.g., grand theft, possession of a controlled substance).

In addition to imprisonment and fines, felony convictions often include probation, restitution, community service, and loss of civil rights. Florida also applies a sentencing score system that takes into account prior convictions, aggravating factors, and victim impact.

How The Law Offices of Justin Rickman Can Help

At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, our legal team understands what is at stake in a felony case. We offer personalized representation and proactive defense strategies that include:

• Thorough investigation into the facts, evidence, and police procedures.
• Challenging illegal searches, arrests, or evidence collection.
• Negotiating with prosecutors for charge reductions or plea agreements.
• Aggressively defending your case at trial when necessary.
• Protecting your rights throughout every stage of the legal process.

We believe everyone deserves a fair chance and a strong defense. Our goal is to help you move forward from this experience with your freedom and future intact.

Felony FAQs

Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Florida?

Yes. In some cases, your defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor, depending on the nature of the crime, your criminal record, and other circumstances.

Will a felony conviction stay on my record forever?

Most felony convictions in Florida cannot be expunged or sealed. However, if your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you may be eligible to have your record cleared.

What should I do if I’m under investigation for a felony?

Do not speak to law enforcement without legal counsel. Contact a Four Corners felony defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights before any statements or evidence can be used against you.

Can I get bail for a felony charge?

In many cases, yes—but it depends on the severity of the charge and your criminal history. Your attorney can argue for reasonable bail or pretrial release conditions.

Contact a Four Corners Felony Defense Lawyer Today

If you’ve been charged with a felony or are under investigation in Four Corners, FL, don’t face the system alone. The stakes are too high to leave your future to chance.

Contact our firm today to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Four Corners felony defense attorney.