Florida Violent Crime Charges Explained – What You’re Facing and How a Strong Defense Works

In Florida, any offense that involves the threat or use of force against another person or their property is considered a violent crime. While punishments vary, depending on the exact type of crime, the penalties are almost always severe. Any conviction on Florida violent crime charges can follow you for life, making it harder to get a job, take out a loan, or even find a place to live. That’s why you should work with an experienced violent crime attorney in Punta Gorda, Florida, from Ruhl Law, P.A., to face these charges head-on.

What Qualifies as a Violent Crime in Florida?

Many offenses count as violent crimes in Florida. In its most basic sense, a violent crime is one that sees a person using the threat of force or actual force against another person. Violent crimes can include:

• Assault
• Homicide
• Robbery
• Rape and sexual assault
• Kidnapping

While Florida saw a nearly 38% decrease in violent crime from 2013 to 2023, these offenses are still a major concern in the state.

Penalties for Violent Crimes

With a violent crime rate of 267 crimes per 100,000 residents, Florida sees many of these offenses. Therefore, it’s unsurprising that there are serious penalties for violent crimes. For example, Florida’s 10-20-Life law has mandatory sentences for felonies committed with a firearm, setting minimum prison sentences at 10 years for possession of a gun while committing a crime, 20 years for discharging it, and 25 years to life for injuring or killing someone with it.

Punishments for violent crimes depend on the severity of the charge. Penalties in Florida may include the following sentences:

• Misdemeanor violent crimes are punishable by up to one year in jail.
• Third-degree felony can result in up to 10 years in prison.
• Second-degree felony can trigger up to 30 years in prison.
• First-degree felony is punishable by up to life in prison.

Defenses Against Violent Crimes Charges

The defense that your attorney may use for your Florida violent crime case largely depends on the charges you’re facing and the evidence against you. In some cases, like assault or homicide, your lawyer may argue that you were acting in self-defense or the defense of another person. The strategy here may be to invoke the state’s Stand Your Ground law or similar statutes.

In other cases, your attorney can argue mistaken identity or a lack of intent. Especially if the case goes to trial, the goal is to introduce reasonable doubt to the jury. Another route is to challenge the admissibility of evidence or even assert that your constitutional rights were violated. If the circumstances call for it, your attorney may also negotiate with the prosecutor to secure a plea deal, resulting in reduced or dropped charges.

Why Choose Ruhl Law, P.A., for Your Violent Crime Case?

A conviction for a violent crime can mean spending the next few decades behind bars. When you’re facing these charges, your life is at stake. That’s why you want a knowledgeable attorney with years of experience in managing these cases. Turn to Ruhl Law, P.A., to be your trusted ally through every step of the process.

We’re familiar with the local courts and the state’s violent crime laws. We know the prosecutors and how they try cases like yours. This helps us build strong, effective defense strategies. We can: 

• Look for inconsistencies in witness testimony.
• Challenge the admissibility of evidence.
• Pursue dismissal if your rights were violated.
• Work to sow doubt into the minds of jurors.

If all else fails, we can seek a fair plea bargain that is in your interests.

FAQs About Florida Violent Crime Charges

What Are the Four Types of Violent Crimes?

According to the FBI’s Unified Crime Report, the four types of violent crimes are murder, rape, robbery, and assault. There are a few things to note. Murder also includes nonnegligent manslaughter, and federal law considers battery a type of assault, whereas Florida law specifies an important distinction between these charges.

Can I Be Charged With a Violent Crime, Even If No One Was Injured?

Yes, you can be charged with a violent crime, even if no one was actually injured. Crimes such as assault and robbery do not require actual physical injury, as the simple threat of violence is enough for a charge. The intent to cause harm, the threat of harm, or the use of force can qualify as violent crimes.

What Is the Difference Between Assault and Battery in Florida?

In Florida, the difference between assault and battery is actual physical contact. While federal law does not always make the distinction, the state acknowledges that assault is the threat or attempt to inflict physical harm, whereas battery is the actual act of hitting someone. You can be charged with both assault and battery if there were threats of violence prior to making physical contact with another person.

Is Self-Defense a Valid Defense Against Violent Crime Charges?

Yes, self-defense can sometimes be a valid defense against violent crime charges but not always. For example, if you’re facing homicide or battery charges, you could argue that someone was threatening your life or property, and you took action to defend yourself. Conversely, self-defense probably wouldn’t be as effective if you’ve been charged with rape or robbery. Your attorney can decide if self-defense is an effective strategy for your case.

Hire a Violent Crime Lawyer

If you’re facing violent crime charges in Florida, know that you don’t have to go through them alone. Hire a violent crime lawyer to investigate your case, collect evidence, review the prosecutor’s case against you, and work to protect your rights and freedom. With so much at stake, you want an experienced attorney with a successful record on your side.

Contact Ruhl Law, P.A., to schedule a consultation. We can discuss your case and work closely with you to create a defense strategy you’re comfortable with. We know how emotionally and mentally challenging it can be to face these charges, and we can be with you throughout your case.