Haines City Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges in Haines City, you need an experienced legal team on your side. A criminal conviction can lead to serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and a lasting criminal record that affects your future. Whether you are accused of a misdemeanor or a felony, you need strong legal representation to ensure your rights are protected. Haines City criminal defense attorneys at Salazar & Kelly Law Group, P.A. provide skilled defense for individuals facing criminal charges throughout Polk County.
Protecting Your Rights in Haines City
Like many areas in Florida, Haines City sees a variety of criminal offenses. Some of the most common crimes include drug offenses, DUI, theft, violent crimes, and white-collar crimes. Each type of charge carries different penalties, and an effective defense strategy depends on the details of the case.
Drug Offenses
Drug-related crimes are among the most frequently prosecuted offenses in Florida. Charges can range from simple possession to trafficking large quantities of controlled substances. Florida law classifies drugs into different schedules, with Schedule I substances like heroin and LSD carrying the most severe penalties. Even possession of small amounts of illegal drugs can lead to serious consequences, including jail time and probation.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
DUI charges are common in Haines City, especially given Florida’s strict laws on impaired driving. A driver can be arrested for DUI if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. For drivers under 21, the BAC limit is 0.02%. Penalties for a DUI conviction can include fines, driver’s license suspension, mandatory DUI school, and even jail time, particularly for repeat offenses or cases involving accidents with injuries.
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft crimes in Florida include shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, and robbery. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the stolen property. Petit theft, which involves property valued under $750, is considered a misdemeanor, while grand theft involves higher-value items and can lead to felony charges. Burglary, which involves entering a structure with the intent to commit a crime, carries even harsher penalties, especially if a weapon is involved.
Violent Crimes
Violent offenses such as assault, battery, domestic violence, and homicide carry some of the harshest penalties under Florida law. Assault involves making threats of violence, while battery includes actual physical contact. Domestic violence charges can lead to additional consequences, such as restraining orders and loss of firearm rights. More severe charges, such as aggravated assault or manslaughter, can result in lengthy prison sentences.
White-Collar Crimes
White-collar crimes, such as fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and money laundering, often involve financial misconduct rather than physical violence. These crimes are taken seriously and can result in both state and federal charges. Convictions may lead to large fines, restitution payments, and significant prison time. Given the complexity of these cases, having an experienced defense attorney is critical.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
Criminal penalties in Florida depend on the type and severity of the offense. The state categorizes crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, with varying degrees of punishment.
Misdemeanor Penalties
Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but can still result in significant penalties. In Florida, first-degree misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Second-degree misdemeanors, such as simple assault or disorderly conduct, can lead to up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
Felony Penalties
Felonies are more serious crimes with harsher consequences. Florida classifies felonies into different degrees:
- Third-degree felonies: Up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine
- Second-degree felonies: Up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- First-degree felonies: Up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Capital felonies: Life in prison or the death penalty
Certain offenses, such as drug trafficking and violent crimes, come with mandatory minimum sentences, meaning the judge has limited discretion in sentencing.
Florida Laws Relevant to Criminal Defense
Florida has strict laws when it comes to criminal offenses, and understanding these laws is key to mounting an effective defense. Some of the most important statutes affecting criminal cases in Haines City include:
Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law
Under Florida’s self-defense laws, individuals have the right to use force, including deadly force, if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm. This law can be used as a defense in cases involving assault, battery, or homicide charges.
Drug Possession and Trafficking Laws
Florida Statute 893.13 governs drug-related offenses, outlining penalties for possession, distribution, and trafficking. Simple possession may result in misdemeanor charges, but possession with intent to sell or trafficking can lead to felony charges and lengthy prison sentences.
DUI Laws
Florida Statute 316.193 covers DUI offenses, establishing penalties based on BAC levels, prior convictions, and whether an accident occurred. Enhanced penalties apply to drivers with high BAC levels or cases involving injuries.
Theft and Fraud Laws
Florida Statute 812.014 defines theft crimes, while fraud-related offenses, such as identity theft and credit card fraud, fall under various statutes, including Florida Statute 817.568. These laws dictate the penalties based on the value of stolen goods or the extent of financial harm caused.
How Salazar & Kelly Law Group, P.A. Can Help
Facing criminal charges is overwhelming, but an experienced defense attorney can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. Salazar & Kelly Law Group, P.A. has extensive experience handling a wide range of criminal cases in Haines City and throughout Polk County.
Building a Strong Defense: A successful defense strategy depends on the specifics of your case. Our attorneys examine all evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and identify weaknesses in their arguments. Whether it’s proving a lack of intent, challenging the validity of a traffic stop, or demonstrating an unlawful search and seizure, we explore every possible defense.
Negotiating for Reduced Charges: Not all criminal cases go to trial. In many situations, negotiating with the prosecution can result in reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. We work to minimize penalties through plea bargains, diversion programs, or probation instead of jail time.
Representing You in Court: If your case goes to trial, having a skilled defense attorney is crucial. Our team aggressively defends clients in court, cross-examines witnesses, and presents compelling arguments to secure a favorable outcome.
Protecting Your Future: A criminal record can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain professional licenses. Our attorneys also assist with post-conviction matters, such as sealing or expunging records, to help you move forward with your life.
Contact a Haines City Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been arrested in Haines City, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you have an attorney on your side, the better your chances of a successful defense. Salazar & Kelly Law Group, P.A. provides dedicated and aggressive representation to individuals facing criminal charges in Haines City and the surrounding areas. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your rights and your future.
