What is a Felony Offense

 

Felony Offenses in Florida

In the State of Florida, criminal violations are classified as either a misdemeanor or felony offense.  A misdemeanor offense is one that is punishable by up to one year in the County Jail.  Felony offenses, which are more serious than misdemeanor offenses, carry significantly harsher penalties. 

Florida Statute §775.082 defines the classifications of felony offenses in the State of Florida.  A felony offense can be classified as a capital offense, a life felony, a first-degree felony, a second-degree felony, and a third-degree felony.

A capital felony offense is one that is punishable by death or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.  Most often, people recognize first-degree murder as a capital offense.  However, in certain instances, sexual battery can be classified as a capital felony offense even though it is not punishable by death.

The next level of felony offense is a life felony.  This level offense is one that is punishable by life imprisonment.  An offense such as lewd or lascivious molestation is an example of an offense that if punishable as life imprisonment where the offender is 18 years of age or older and the victim is less than 12 years of age.

A felony of the first degree is punishable by a term of imprisonment not exceeding 30-years.  Drug trafficking offenses, which also carry minimum mandatory sentences, are classified as first-degree felonies.

Capital, life, and first-degree felony offenses are all incredibly serious offenses which typically result in some period of incarceration, even if that means only during the pendency of the case.  Although both second- and third-degree felony offenses are less serious, they still carry the potential for periods of incarceration and should not be taken lightly.

A second-degree felony is punishable by a term of imprisonment not exceeding 15 years.  A typical second-degree felony offense is a Sale and Delivery of a Controlled Substance charge.  Third-degree felonies are offenses punishable by a term of imprisonment not exceeding 5-years. Typical third-degree felony offenses include theft and drug possession.

Orlando Felony Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with a felony offense, it is imperative that you seek the advice and counsel of an experienced felony defense attorney.  Call now at 407-473-1233 to speak with a skilled lawyer at Z Law Firm for your defense.