The consequences of a felony conviction extend far beyond fines and prison time—they can affect your career, reputation, and future opportunities. Working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your rights, evaluate your options, and develop a strategic plan to fight the charges against you.
With over 30 years of experience in criminal defense, Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has dedicated his career to defending individuals accused of serious crimes. Mr. Gabriel’s extensive knowledge of the legal system and track record in handling complex felony cases make him a trusted advocate for those navigating these high-stakes situations.
What To Know About Felony Charges in West Palm Beach
A felony offense is any crime where an individual may face a prison sentence of at least one year. Criminal charges that lead to a sentence of under one year are typically classified as misdemeanor offenses. In Florida, felony offenses are divided into the third, second, and first degree. Third-degree felony offenses are typically classified as less serious while first-degree offenses may lead to the most severe consequence, including life imprisonment depending on the case. Here’s what you should know about each type:
Third-Degree Felony Offenses in Florida
A third-degree felony is one step up from a first-degree misdemeanor. Third-degree felonies are punishable by up to 5 years in prison, and/or five years of probation, and/or fines of up to $5,000. Common examples of third-degree felonies in West Palm Beach are:
- Aggravated assault
- 3rd or Subsequent DUI Offense
- Drug possession
- Bribery
- Burglary
- Fraud
- Aggravated stalking
- Elder abuse
Facing a third-degree felony charge is a serious matter, but an experienced criminal defense attorney can help you build a strong defense to challenge the charges.
Second-Degree Felony Offenses
Second-degree felonies are more serious offenses than third-degree felonies, and as such lead to more severe penalties. A conviction for a second-degree felony offense can lead to:
- Up to 15 years in prison (mandatory minimums are possible for certain offenses)
- Up to 15 years of probation
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Paying the victim restitution
Examples of second-degree felony offenses may include:
- DUI Manslaughter
- Aggravated battery
- Sale of marijuana to a minor
- Burglary
Given the severity of the penalties and the long-term implications of a second-degree felony conviction, consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to protect your future.
First-Degree Felonies
By far the most severe charges are for first-degree felony offenses. Penalties for first-degree felonies can lead to 30 years in prison, and/or up to 30 years of probation, and/or a fine of no more than $10,000.
Examples of first-degree felonies in Florida include:
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Arson
- Rape
- Kidnapping
- Aggravated assault against a police officer, prison employee, an officer of a court, or emergency medical personnel
- Robbery with a deadly weapon
- Carjacking
With life-altering penalties on the line, facing a first-degree felony charge requires a comprehensive legal approach to safeguard your rights.
Capital (Life) Felonies in Florida
Certain capital felonies may lead to a lifetime of imprisonment or the death penalty. These include, but are not limited to:
- Armed drug trafficking
- Murder
- Armed kidnapping
- Some sexual felony crimes
Having a felony offense on your criminal record is never a good look, even if the crime was nonviolent. You are urged to seek the help of a criminal defense lawyer with years of experience fighting felony charges, as a felony defense lawyer can protect your future outlook and your rights throughout the criminal process. It is especially important to work with a knowledgeable attorney with experience fighting capital charges.
Measuring Felonies
The Florida Legislature determines the classification of all felony offenses. The Florida Department of Corrections provides a ranking chart for determining a felony, where the severity level of the offense is ranked from one to ten. This chart is used to compute a sentence score for each person charged with a felony offense. However, the alleged perpetrator’s conduct and the severity of that conduct can play a large role in classifying the degree. While an accused individual under the age of 18 may be charged as a juvenile rather than an adult, if the crime committed is of a certain intensity – one where the death of an individual may be involved – then that person may be charged with a felony as if they were an adult.
Certain crimes such as assault or battery may be both a misdemeanor offense and punishable as a felony offense if certain aggravating factors are present. Aggravating factors may include the nature of the battery, whether a deadly weapon was used, and whether the person has any previous record of other felony offenses. These aggravating factors can increase an accused’s potential sentence if ever convicted.
Responding to a Felony Charge in West Palm Beach
In all types of felony charges, the accused must find an experienced criminal defense attorney. Felony defense lawyer Brian Gabriel has handled a wide variety of felony cases, with the resources necessary to be dedicated toward each individual client’s needs. Mr. Gabriel can work towards an acquittal or negotiate a reduction of any potential sentence for his clients.
Start with a free consultation today by calling Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel of The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel at (561) 622-5575. You can also complete an online contact form to learn more.
