St. Petersburg Felony Defense Lawyers

Defending Clients Against All Felony Charges in Florida

In Florida as in all other states, crimes are categorized according to the severity of the activities engaged in against others and their property. These categories include infractions or violations as in traffic citations, misdemeanors, and felonies. Traffic violations generally have no criminal penalties but only fines unless they are considered crimes under state law, such as drunk driving. Misdemeanors are considered to be less serious crimes while felonies are considered to be the most serious and generally involve prison sentences that can range from a year to life, depending on the circumstances.

If you or someone you know is facing a felony or multiple felony charges in or around the St. Petersburg area, you need aggressive and trusted legal representation. State and federal prosecutors will work overtime to convict you; often the only thing standing between you and severe criminal penalties is a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney. At Morris Law Firm, P.A., you can get representation from a legal team that includes a former state prosecutor who has acted as a lead trial attorney and who has handled cases involving DUI, capital sexual battery, robbery, manslaughter, and first-degree murder. The value of inside knowledge in how the prosecution works in such cases cannot be overstated. You will benefit from this extensive knowledge, insight, and trial experience in the defense of your felony case.

If you are facing felony charges in Hillsborough, Pinellas, or surrounding counties, contact Morris Law Firm, P.A. at (727) 592-5885 to book a consultation about your defense.

Types of Felony Offenses in Florida

Examples of felonies include but are not limited to:

• Abuse of a child
• Arson
• Kidnapping
• Grand theft
• Aggravated assault or battery
• Manslaughter
• Burglary
• Carjacking
• Stalking
• Sex crimes
• Robbery
• Drug trafficking
• Carrying a concealed weapon
• Stalking
• Resisting arrest with violence
• Third and subsequent DUIs
• Human trafficking

What are the Penalties for Felony Charges?

In the state of Florida, felonies are broken down into different categories as follows:

• Capital felonies such as first-degree murder, punishable by the death penalty or life in prison without parole.
• Life felonies, such as aggravated sexual assault, punishable by life in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
• First-degree felonies, such as aggravated battery (wherein intentional great bodily harm occurred) against a police officer while on duty; this is punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Second-degree felonies such as aggravated assault or selling marijuana to a minor; this is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and fine of up to $10,000.
• Third-degree felonies, the least serious type of felony, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. Examples of this include illegal drug possession and vehicular theft.

Various factors can affect what type of felony is charged in any given case. These factors can include how severe the crime was, whether a weapon was used or was threatened to be used, whether the victim sustained harm, how old the victim was, if the victim was part of a “protected” class such as a police officer, emergency medical technician, firefighter, or similar public servant, and whether you have prior criminal convictions.

Bring in a Seasoned Criminal Trial Lawyer for Your Defense

When you are accused of a crime as serious as a felony, you should never attempt to defend yourself or rely on an overworked public defender. You will need experienced legal help navigating the criminal court system, ensuring that you are not taken advantage of by law enforcement or overzealous prosecutors, and having someone on your side who is solely devoted to helping you obtain the best possible result. At a time when your freedom, your family’s well-being, your job or career, and your reputation are a stake, strong professional help is paramount. That is why we recommend that you turn to Morris Law Firm, P.A. where you will find an experienced legal team devoted strictly to criminal defense in and around St. Petersburg.

Reach out to a St. Petersburg felony defense attorney at (727) 592-5885 to discuss your case and options today.