Felony Lawyer in Clearwater, FL

Felony Classifications

The state's laws classify felonies in five categories: 

• Capital felony: Punishable by death or life imprisonment without parole
• Life felony: Punishable by up to a life sentence and/or a fine of $15,000
• First-degree felony: Punishable by up to 30 years in prison and/or a fine of $10,000
• Second-degree felony: Punishable by up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of $10,000
• Third-degree felony: Punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine of $5,000

The specific penalties for each category may vary depending on the circumstances of the crime and the defendant's criminal record. 

Examples of Florida Felonies

Some common examples of felonies include: 

• Murder  
• Aggravated assault or battery 
• Robbery  
• Kidnapping  
• Sexual offenses such as rape, child molestation, and indecent exposure
• Drug crimes like trafficking

Possible Defenses for Felony Charges

Attorney Haworth has successfully defended clients against felony charges, including those tried in federal courts. If you have been charged with a felony, he may employ the following defenses to protect your freedom and clear your name:

Insufficient Evidence

The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the alleged crime. If there is not enough evidence to support their case, our attorney can argue for your acquittal.

Violation of Constitutional Rights

Your rights as a defendant are protected under the U.S. Constitution. If your rights were violated during the arrest, investigation, or trial process, our lawyer can argue for excluding evidence obtained in connection with these violations.

Mistaken Identity

In some cases, individuals may be wrongly identified as a crime’s perpetrator. Our attorney can investigate and present evidence that affirms you were not involved in an alleged offense. 

Self-Defense or Justifiable Use of Force

If you acted in self-defense or had a justifiable reason for using force against another person, our attorney can possibly argue this as a defense to charges of violent crimes and gun-related offenses.

Mental Incapacity

If you were not mentally competent at the time of the alleged crime, our lawyer may be able to pursue a reduction or dismissal of charges.