Common Felony Offenses in Florida

Felonies are more serious crimes than misdemeanors. They include substantially dangerous or risky conduct that puts the lives and safety of others and the community at risk.

Common types of felony offenses in Florida include:

• Murder
• Kidnapping
• Human trafficking
• DUI manslaughter
• DUI with serious bodily injury
• Aggravated assault
• Aggravated battery
• Drug trafficking
• Armed robbery
• Sexual battery
• Child pornography offenses
• Lewd or lascivious offenses
• Solicitation of a minor
• Burglary
• Grand theft
• Embezzlement
• Money laundering
• Aggravated domestic violence

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we’ll explain the charge you’re facing and your options for challenging the accusations. By providing honest and clear information, we can assist in making informed decisions about how to proceed with your case.

The Penalties for Felonies in Florida

Florida separates felonies into five categories based on the acts involved. Generally, felonies are punishable by incarceration and/or fines. The term of imprisonment and the amount of the fine are based on the category of the offense.

Examples of potential felony penalties include the following:

• Capital felony:
  • Death or life imprisonment without parole
• Life felony:
  • Imprisonment for 25 years to life with probation for the rest of the person’s life
  • A fine not to exceed $15,000
• First-degree felony:
  • Not more than 30 years’ imprisonment
  • A fine not to exceed $10,000
• Second-degree felony:
  • Not more than 15 years’ imprisonment
  • A fine not to exceed $10,000
• Third-degree felony:
  • Not more than 5 years’ imprisonment 
  • A fine not to exceed $5,000

Punishments other than those listed above may also be imposed. Additionally, when a person is convicted of a felony, they can face various collateral consequences – those arising from laws, rules, and regulations. For instance, an individual may lose their gun rights, be denied state licensure, or have trouble getting a job or a place to live.

The Statute of Limitations for Felonies in Florida

The statute of limitations lists the time the prosecutor has to bring a case against a person accused of a crime. For felonies, the deadline varies according to the category of the offense.

Action must be commenced as follows:

• Any time for a capital or life felony
• 4 years after a first-degree offense was committed
• 3 years after a second- or third-degree offense was committed

The court could dismiss the case if the prosecutor does not file charges within the deadline.

Contact First Coast Criminal Defense Today

Our Jacksonville felony defense attorneys recognize the long-term repercussions of a conviction. We purposely take on a small caseload, allowing us to dedicate the time and effort necessary to fight to protect our clients’ rights and futures.

For a complimentary case evaluation, please contact usat (904) 474-3115.