If you are accused of a violent crime, it is extremely important to do your best to maintain your innocence. These crimes often carry serious consequences that can alter the course of your entire life. Even an accusation can make it difficult to get a job, find housing, and interact with family and friends. To move forward with your life, you must fight for your innocence in court.
Because violent offenses are serious in the eyes of the law, it is important to find a criminal attorney who can represent you. With the help of a qualified lawyer, you can work to put the entire situation behind you.
For many years, our team of criminal lawyers has been helping individuals who have been accused of violent crimes. We know that these situations can often be misinterpreted, misrepresented, or otherwise misunderstood. Regardless of the situation that you are in, you deserve high-quality criminal law representation that will fight for you in court. Our law firm will do just that.
Although violence inspires fear in many people, we understand that a single event does not make you a criminal. Many of our clients were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Others were falsely blamed for something they had nothing to do with. No matter what your circumstances may be, you can trust that we will listen to your story with an open mind and without judgment. We are here to help and offer all our clients the utmost respect throughout the duration of their cases.
Our firm offers highly experienced criminal defense counsel in Collier County. You can trust the Law Office of Donald P. Day to represent you in your violent crime case.
As the name suggests, violent crimes are a category of criminal activities that involve physical violence. Examples include:
These crimes are extremely serious, and the law does not make concessions for those convicted of a violent crime.
Violent crimes are categorized as felonies in Florida, meaning that they result in more severe punishments than misdemeanor offenses. Most people convicted of these crimes face prison time because the offenders are considered dangerous and a threat to others. Since the crimes are felonies, offenders face time in a federal prison rather than a state or county jail.
If you face a violent crime case, you will go through the criminal court system. It is important that you understand what that means and how it differs from other types of cases.
A civil case occurs when one individual or business (the prosecution) opens a claim against another individual or business (the defense) to recover losses. Personal injury claims are common civil cases. Essentially, they use the court system as a way to solve a financial dispute.
Criminal cases are different. In criminal claims, the government acts as the prosecution and brings charges forward against someone who they believe has done something wrong (the defense). This is the government’s way of enforcing the law while still using a jury to ensure that the verdict is fair. Those found guilty in criminal court will have a crime on their record. However, those found at fault in civil court will not receive legal punishments.
Because violent crimes are so dangerous, the punishments for them are severe. The law wants to prevent violent offenders from repeating their actions or hurting more people, which means that convictions almost always result in prison time. Furthermore, violence can easily lead to death, which can increase the charges that you face and compound your punishments.
With so much at stake, it is in your best interest to fight for your freedom. The best way to do this is with the help of a qualified attorney. These cases are complicated; even many attorneys who do not have experience in this area cannot fight them. Therefore, trying to represent yourself will likely result in you losing your case.
The cost of a criminal lawyer in Florida depends on the attorney’s experience, your case type, and the firm’s policies. Because of the variance, it is important to search for an attorney who matches your budget and needs. Always discuss finances with potential attorneys before hiring them to be sure that you can afford their services throughout the duration of your case. If you find that you cannot afford their services halfway through your trial, your case could fall apart, and you have a higher chance of losing.
It is also important to find an attorney with whom you feel comfortable. Many people forget that you need to be able to speak openly and honestly with your attorney. As they are your advocates, you should feel comfortable around them. If you do not feel comfortable around a potential attorney, continue to look for a good fit.
Although it is rare, the prosecution may drop your charges if evidence comes to light that releases you from suspicion. In most cases, however, the defense either must accept a plea deal or go through trial to discover their fate. The prosecution in criminal cases rarely drops charges.
When you meet with our highly experienced attorneys, we can advise you on the best route forward for your claim. We always offer strong, honest advice, and we do not shy away from trial or courtroom litigation if we believe that the outcome will be better for you. You can trust that your best interests are at the center of your claim when you work with our team.
The Law Office of Donald P. Day is here to help you through your violent crime case or other criminal defense matters. To learn more about our firm or our policies, or to schedule a consultation, contact the Law Office of Donald P. Day today.