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Juvenile Offenses

In Florida, cases involving children are tried in a court where only a judge presides, without a jury. However, exceptions exist, such as direct filed cases where juveniles are tried in adult court. After an arrest, the court may decide to place the child in a detention center or allow them to return home with their parents until their court appearance. Juvenile offenses include:

• Violating curfew
• Shoplifting
• Harassment
• Truancy
• Underage possession or consumption of tobacco or alcohol
• Possession of marijuana or other illegal substances

Juvenile offenses can lead to various punishments, including participation in low-risk, moderate-risk, or high-risk programs, as well as juvenile prison sentences ranging from 18 to 36 months.

Theft Crimes

In Florida, theft is defined as knowingly taking or using another person’s property without permission. It also includes obtaining property with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of their rights. Theft can be categorized as either petty theft or grand theft.

Theft of property valued at $30,000 or more is classified as grand theft, a first-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. If the value of the stolen property is between $300 and less than $750, it is considered a misdemeanor. Repeated offenses can escalate petty theft charges to a felony.

Sex Offenses

Sexual crimes in Florida carry severe penalties, with the seriousness of the charges influenced by factors such as:

• The age of the victim
• The age of the offender
• Any other aggravating circumstances

Punishments for sex offenses vary depending on the specific crime. For example:

• A first-time offender for solicitation of prostitution, considered a misdemeanor, might receive probation.
• Lewd or lascivious battery can result in up to 15 years’ imprisonment.
• Aggravated sexual battery, where the victim is over 12 years old, can lead to prison terms ranging from 11 years to life.
• If the offender is over 18 years old, sexual battery on a child under 12 can result in life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Probation Violations

The court can grant probation to an individual, allowing their release from detention under supervision if they demonstrate good behavior. However, violating the terms of probation results in severe penalties. Probation violations can be either technical or substantive. Technical violations include:

• Failing a drug test
• Not paying court fees
• Missing mandatory probation meetings
• Not completing a rehabilitation program

Substantive violations involve committing a new crime while on probation for an existing offense. If this occurs, the court may revoke probation and impose imprisonment.

Domestic Violence

In Florida, domestic violence incidents encompass specific acts of violence against a family or household member. The minimum penalty is a five-day prison term. However, if combined with assault and battery, a domestic assault conviction can lead to extended jail time. Offenses included in domestic violence involve:

• Assault
• Kidnapping
• Battery
• Sexual assault
• Stalking

Domestic violence charges may apply to crimes against a current or former spouse, individuals currently or previously living together as a family, or individuals who share a child, regardless of marital status.

Loitering and Prowling Offenses

According to the law, individuals are not allowed to loiter or prowl in a manner that is unusual for law-abiding citizens, particularly in terms of time and place. Any law enforcement officer has the authority to stop a person if they have reason to believe that individual poses a potential threat to the peace and security of others or property in the vicinity. Here are some common reasons for such charges:

• Fleeing upon seeing a police officer
• Refusing to provide identification
• Attempting to hide or conceal objects
• Failing to leave the area when requested

Loitering and prowling offenses are classified as misdemeanors of the second degree and carry corresponding penalties.

Robbery Offenses

Robbery is a felony offense that can be classified as first, second, or third degree, each carrying distinct punishments based on the severity of the crime.

Sudden snatching, which typically involves pickpocketing or purse-grabbing, falls under the third-degree offense category. These crimes are punishable by up to 5 years in prison or probation.

Robbery by force, which involves violence against the victim, is considered a second-degree offense and carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison or probation.

Robbery with a deadly weapon occurs when a weapon is used to threaten or harm the victim during the commission of the crime. Such cases are classified as first-degree felonies and can result in a maximum 30-year prison sentence.

DUI

While a single DUI may not spell the end of the world, multiple DUI offenses can lead to hefty fines, permanent revocation of your license, and substantial prison time. Nevertheless, even a first-time DUI is a serious matter. A single DUI charge can result in:

• Fines of up to $1,000
• License revocation for 180 days
• Mandatory participation in a DUI interlock program (costing up to $110 per month)
• Up to 6 months in prison

Furthermore, a DUI charge can profoundly impact both your personal and professional life. If you’re facing a DUI charge, reach out to Smith & Eulo Law Firm for a thorough review of your case. We can represent you in the Leon court system and develop the strongest possible defense for your circumstances.

Assault and Battery

Although assault and battery charges are commonly lumped together, there exists a clear distinction between the two. Battery occurs when the offender physically touches the victim, often resulting in an additional battery charge alongside a simple assault charge. The potential penalties for assault and battery can include:

• Fines of up to $10,000
• Imprisonment for up to 15 years
• Mandatory participation in anger management or physical offender classes

Assault and battery charges demand serious attention. If you’re facing charges related to assault, battery, or both, don’t hesitate to reach out to Smith and Eulo Law Firm for a complimentary initial case consultation. We strive to present your side of the story effectively and clearly, allowing the Leon County courts to make well-informed decisions.

Drug Crimes

Drug offenses range from minor charges like simple possession of marijuana to serious charges such as trafficking a Schedule I narcotic, which can have life-altering consequences. In certain cases, offenders may even be labeled as drug kingpins, leading to harsher penalties. The repercussions for the most severe drug crimes can include:

• Life imprisonment
• Fines of up to $500,000
• Mandatory participation in substance abuse programs

If you’re facing charges related to a drug crime, Smith and Eulo Law Firm is ready to provide you with the defense you need. Our Tallahassee defense attorneys can represent you in court and present your case in a manner that raises reasonable doubt in the minds of your peers.