Ponte Vedra Beach Felony Lawyer

Ponte Vedra Beach Felony Attorney

Being charged with a felony offense is a serious and potentially overwhelming legal matter. A conviction can have significant impacts on your future, including your freedoms, your career opportunities, and even your relationships. If you have been charged with a felony, it is vital that you speak with a Ponte Vedra Beach felony lawyer as soon as possible.

Felony Defense in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

Kevin A. Raudt, P.A., has been handling felony cases for clients in Ponte Vedra Beach and the surrounding areas for nearly four decades. If you are facing felony charges, you need reliable counsel and effective representation. Kevin A. Raudt, P.A., has the experience and diligence to fight for you and work to secure the most favorable outcome in your circumstance.

What Is a Felony?

In Florida, a felony represents the most serious category of criminal charges. As contrasted with a misdemeanor, a felony charge will be placed on crimes that are more severe, such as murder, rape, or fraud, and usually involve significant harm to the victim. They will carry more substantial penalties, such as heavier fines and longer prison sentences. Lastly, felonies also carry additional long-term consequences, such as losing certain freedoms, rights, or employment eligibility.

What Kinds of Felonies Do We Handle?

Kevin A. Raudt, P.A., handles a wide range of criminal cases, including felonies of all kinds. Many crimes that would otherwise be misdemeanors may be charged as felony offenses due to the severity of the alleged crime. The following are some of the more common types of felony charges that we handle:

• Assault and battery. Assault is charged when an individual threatens to cause harm. When actual harm is inflicted, it is considered battery. While simple battery is a misdemeanor, aggravated battery is a second-degree felony. Assault and battery is considered aggravated if a deadly weapon is used.
• Domestic violence. An act that causes harm or instills fear in a family member, household member, or romantic partner is considered domestic violence. In aggravated circumstances, domestic violence can be charged as a felony, garnering a sentence of between 5 and 30 years in prison.
• Drug charges. Possessing, manufacturing, trafficking, or distributing illicit or illegal substances can result in felony charges, depending on the substance type and quantity.
• DUI (Driving under the influence). Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense in Florida. If a driver kills or injures someone or receives multiple DUI convictions, they could be charged with a felony offense.
• Robbery. A robbery is an act of theft that involves force or the threat of force, such as with a deadly weapon. This is considered a violent crime and is charged as a felony in Florida.
• Sex offenses. Crimes that involve acts that are sexual in nature, such as rape, some stalking, and other forms of sexual assault, can be charged as a felony, depending on the nature of the act, the age of the victim, and whether aggravating circumstances were involved.
• White-collar crimes. Embezzlement, forgery, money laundering, and various types of fraud, such as insurance fraud and credit card fraud, are considered felonies due to the significant financial harm involved.

While these are the more common felony charges for which we represent clients, it is not an exhaustive list. It is important to speak with a defense attorney about the specific details of your case to get a better understanding of what will be involved.

FAQs About Ponte Vedra Beach, FL Felony Laws

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost in Florida?

In Florida, the cost of hiring a felony defense attorney can range between $150 – $500 per hour. The exact costs, however, will vary based on the attorney’s experience, billing method, and the severity and extent of the crime. Cases involving extensive investigations or trial preparations will require more experience and take more time, increasing the overall costs. It is important to discuss fees and cost structure upfront with your attorney.

Can a Felony Be Dropped in Florida?

Prosecutors in Florida may drop charges under certain circumstances, such as an insufficiency of evidence or a violation of constitutional rights. However, this is quite rare. Those who are accused of non-violent crimes or who have no prior convictions may be eligible for a pre-trial diversion program. Upon completion of the program, the felony charges would be dropped. Defense attorneys can also negotiate for a plea deal that may result in reduced charges.

How Long Does a Felony Case Take in Florida?

Simple felony cases may be resolved within a few months, but complex felony cases can take over a year to complete. In Florida, the duration of a felony case can vary widely, depending on the case’s complexity and whether a trial is involved. The trials themselves can last between a few days and a couple of weeks, but court schedules and case delays can extend the overall timeline. It is vital that you discuss your situation with a qualified felony attorney.

Can You Get Probation for a Felony in Florida?

Depending on the nature of the charges and your criminal history, you may be able to receive probation as an alternative sentence for a felony conviction. While this is ultimately up to the court’s discretion, violent or serious crimes are less likely to result in probation. If probation is imposed, it will include mandatory conditions, such as counseling, regular reporting to a probation officer, curfews, and employment maintenance. Those with probation must avoid further criminal activity.

Contact Your Ponte Vedra Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Kevin A. Raudt, P.A., offers experienced representation and judgment-free legal counsel in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. Our team can guide you through the legal process, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you in court if your case goes to trial. By working closely with a qualified and experienced felony defense lawyer, you will have the greatest opportunity to secure a favorable outcome. If you have been charged with a felony, contact our Ponte Vedra Beach office today.