Tampa Violent Crime Lawyer

Tampa Violent Crime Attorney

Acts of physical aggression or threats that endanger people are categorized as violent crimes. Those accused of such crimes can face severe punishments, including incarceration, significant fines, loss of rights, and a permanent record that may limit any future opportunities. With the potential of these life-altering consequences, it is important to have a Tampa violent crime lawyer on your side.

Examples of Felony Violent Crimes

Felony violent crimes are handled within the 13th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. They can include:

Murder

Florida statute Title XLVI, Chapter 782.04 defines murder as the unlawful and deliberate planned killing of another person. The statute extends the definition of murder to include any fatalities that occur during the act or attempted act of certain felonies like kidnapping, burglary, robbery, or sexual assault. Murder is classified into degrees, which affect the length of incarceration, capital punishment, and fines.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault is a crime that happens when a person attacks another person with a deadly weapon or when an assault is committed with the intent to commit another felony. A person may be subject to up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine if convicted.

In Tampa, aggravated assault is one of the most prevalent violent crimes at a rate of 3.42 out of 1,000 people. This is much higher than the overall aggravated assault rate in the United States, which is 2.64 out of 1,000 people. This crime is particularly prominent in East Tampa, where an average of 6.756 out of every 1,000 people have been victims.

Robbery

Robbery is defined in Florida as the act of taking or attempting to take the personal property of another person. The severity of the charges depends on whether a weapon was involved. If a firearm or other weapon was used during the robbery, it would be classified as a first-degree felony with potential incarceration of up to 30 years and a maximum fine of $15,000. Unarmed robbery may come with up to 15 years of imprisonment and a maximum fine of $15,000.

Kidnapping

Kidnapping is the forceful abduction or unlawful confinement of another person. For kidnapping to be classified as a felony, it must be done with the intention of carrying out a serious crime, inflicting bodily injury, or causing extreme fear, demanding payment, or using the person as leverage in negotiations, or impeding the operation of governmental processes. Kidnapping is classified as a first-degree felony and can result in up to 30 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $15,000.

Misdemeanor Violent Crimes

Some violent crimes may be classified as misdemeanors, including domestic violence, stalking, simple assault, and simple battery. Misdemeanors are not as serious as felonies and usually include crimes that have caused less severe harm. Instead of the Circuit Court, misdemeanor crimes are handled by the Hillsborough County Court.

Contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Potential Defense Strategies

At Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we understand the complexities of the legal system along with the procedures and protocols of the Tampa Police Department and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is important to develop a strong defense tailored to each person’s unique situation using this deep understanding of local laws and precedents. Potential defense strategies can include:

• Challenging Evidence
• Self-Defense or In Defense of Others
• Defense of Property
• Lack of Intent
• Alibi

How a Violent Crime Conviction Can Impact Your Future

Lengthy incarceration and substantial fines are only the beginning of the consequences of a violent crime conviction. After a convicted person is released from prison, they can face barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities.

Many employers conduct background checks, and a violent crime conviction can disqualify applicants, regardless of how qualified they are. Similarly, landlords may refuse to rent to individuals with records, and some educational institutions may deny them admission. Along with those barriers, a conviction can lead to the loss of voting and firearm rights, loss of custody of children, and the social stigma that may come with it can mean difficulty reintegrating into society and strained relationships.

A skilled Tampa Bay Area violent crime defense lawyer is essential for mitigating or even avoiding these severe consequences. They can work on challenging the prosecution’s evidence, negotiating plea deals to reduce charges or sentences, and ensuring the accused’s rights are protected throughout the entire legal process.

FAQs

Q: What Counts as a Violent Crime in Florida?

A: Florida categorizes any crimes as violent crimes if there is a threat or use of force against another person. The most common examples are assault and battery, domestic violence, homicide, robbery, and sex crimes. Many violent crimes within the state are classified as felonies and carry harsh penalties like lengthy prison sentences and large fines.

Q: What Should I Do if I Have Been Charged With a Violent Crime?

A: If you are charged with a violent crime, the most crucial step is seeking legal representation. An attorney can protect your rights, explain the charges against you, investigate the facts of your case, develop a defense strategy, and represent you in court. It is not recommended that you speak with the police or anyone else about your case without an attorney present.

Q: Can a Charge for Violent Crime Be Dismissed or Reduced?

A: Yes, violent crime charges in Florida can potentially be dismissed or reduced, but it is a complex process that depends on the circumstances of your case. For a better chance of your charges being dismissed or reduced, you need to seek legal representation that can evaluate how strong the prosecution’s case is, identify potential defenses, and negotiate with prosecutors.

Q: How Does a Violent Crime Conviction Affect My Future?

A: A violent crime conviction can impact your future employment, educational, and housing opportunities, restrict your voting and firearm ownership rights, and affect whether or not you could have custody or visitation with your children. A criminal record can also damage your reputation and affect the relationships you have with your family, friends, and community.

Contact Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

Facing accusations of violent offenses like robbery, battery, or assault can come with severe and long-lasting consequences. Besides incarceration and fines, a conviction can create a permanent legal record, which can limit your future opportunities. Brancato Law Firm, P.A. excels in trying mental health cases and utilizing expert witnesses to build strong defenses. Reach out today for comprehensive and strategic representation.