Facing Assault Charges In Orlando? Let Our Assault Lawyers Defend Your Rights.
Florida prosecutes assault charges very harshly. A conviction – even a mere accusation – can quickly cost you your job, housing, educational prospects and personal relationships. It is critical to have a reputable criminal defense law firm on your side to protect your rights.
The time has come to turn to Mandell Law PA. Our founding attorney, Rob Mandell, is renowned for litigating high-profile cases and the complexities of severe and federal charges with poise and determination. Together, our assault lawyers bring over 25 years of collective courtroom experience to the forefront, ensuring that every client receives robust representation.
What Is An Assault In Florida?
The formal definition of assault in Florida is long-winded and full of legalese, making it hard for many to comprehend. Concisely, it involves inflicting harm, threatening violence or causing reasonable fear of immediate harm. Physical contact need not occur, as the laws cover situations where someone feels genuinely threatened without contact.
Florida deals with assault charges in different ways depending on the circumstances. For instance, a simple assault involving only threats is typically a second-degree misdemeanor. By contrast, the use of a deadly weapon will lead to aggravated assault charges, a third-degree felony.
Assault during a riot is also a distinct offense in Florida. It involves acts or threats of violence during a riot. It will elevate a simple assault charge into a first-degree felony.
Understanding the specific assault charge you face can help you and your attorney create a defense strategy that prioritizes a best-case outcome.
Assault Defense Strategies Tailored To Your Case
The Florida criminal justice system recognizes several different types of assault. Some of these include:
- Simple assault: A threat or attempt to inflict injury upon someone else, where the victim has a reasonable fear of harm.
- Aggravated assault: An assault which involves a weapon or the intent to commit a serious crime, resulting in more severe charges.
- Sexual assault: Unwanted sexual contact or behavior without the consent of the other person.
- Domestic assault: Assaultive behavior directed at a spouse, partner or family member, often involving additional legal complications.
- Felony assault: An assault that causes serious physical harm or is committed with a deadly weapon, leading to more serious felony charges.
Each type of assault carries its own set of legal challenges and potential sentences. A misdemeanor conviction can result in up to one year in jail, while a felony can include one or more years in prison. Our criminal defense lawyers dissect the circumstances surrounding your case to mount a defense that is tailored specifically to you.
Potential Penalties For State And Federal Assault Convictions
The penalties for assault convictions vary based on charge severity and whether prosecuted at the state or federal level.
Florida penalties can include:
- Simple assault: Up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine
- Aggravated assault: Up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine
- Assault during a riot: Up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine
Federal charges can arise in several situations, including:
- Assault on a federal officer, employee or official
- Assault occurring on federal property
- Assault that involves crossing state lines
As you might expect, a federal assault conviction can pose potentially life-changing outcomes. Even if convicted on simple assault charges, it could result in a one-year prison – not jail – sentence. A federal assault that causes bodily injury is punishable by up to 20 years of imprisonment if it involves a deadly weapon.
As you can see, the stakes are incredibly high when facing assault charges of any severity in Florida. Our attorneys can help you implement strategies to minimize the nature of your charges and their potential consequences.
Proven Results In The Most Severe Of Circumstances
Rob Mandell and our team of assault lawyers have defended countless individuals facing assault charges and other violent criminal offenses, often resulting in reduced or dismissed charges. We explore all defense options, from stand-your-ground laws to self-defense claims. Our approach to criminal defense is both strategic and compassionate, ensuring that your side of the story is presented powerfully in court.
Get In Touch Now – Make A Free Consultation
If you or a loved one is facing assault charges, don’t handle the legal system alone. Contact Mandell Law PA today for a free consultation. Reach out by calling us at 407-956-1180 or by sending an email, and let’s start the conversation that could change the course of your case.