Violent Crimes Attorney in Dunedin, Florida

When a disagreement escalates into violence, it can lead to serious legal consequences, often resulting in criminal charges that can have lasting repercussions on one’s life. Violent crimes encompass a range of offenses, including assault, battery, robbery, and homicide, each of which carries significant penalties in Florida’s legal system. If you find yourself facing charges related to a violent crime, it is crucial to understand your legal rights and the potential ramifications of a conviction. 

I am committed to upholding your rights and ensuring that you receive the representation you need during this challenging time. Each case is unique, and I will dedicate myself to understanding the specifics of your situation and developing a tailored defense strategy.

Don't face your charges alone. Contact Venessa Bornost, P.A. today to discuss your case with a dedicated professional who will fight for you. 

Understanding Violent Crimes 

In Florida, violent crimes are defined as acts that inflict or threaten physical harm upon another person. These offenses can include: 

• Assault: An intentional act that causes another person to fear imminent harm. This can be verbal threats, gestures, or any other actions that create fear of injury. 

• Battery: Unlike assault, battery involves actual physical contact or harm to another individual. This includes pushing, hitting, or any unwanted touching. 

• Aggravated Assault/Battery: These are more severe forms of assault and battery, which involve the use of a deadly weapon or causing significant bodily harm. Such charges are taken very seriously in Florida, leading to much harsher penalties. 

• Robbery: Taking property from a person through the use of force or intimidation, which can escalate swiftly into a violent crime charge. 

• Homicide: This encompasses any unlawful killing of another individual, whether intentional or unintentional, with varying degrees of seriousness such as manslaughter, murder, and more. 

Understanding the definitions and the potential penalties associated with these charges is essential in navigating the challenging landscape of a violent crime accusation. 

Penalties for Violent Crimes in Florida 

Florida imposes strict penalties for violent crimes, with the severity of the consequences typically varying based on the nature of the offense, the level of harm inflicted, and whether weapons or other aggravating factors were involved.  

• Assault is generally charged as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail. However, assault can be escalated to aggravated assault, which is a felony, potentially leading to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. 

• Battery is usually classified as a misdemeanor as well, but aggravated battery can lead to serious felony charges, resulting in up to 15 years of incarceration and substantial fines.  

• Robbery can be categorized as a second-degree felony with potential penalties of up to 15 years in prison, and if a weapon is involved, those charges may elevate to a first-degree felony resulting in life imprisonment. 

• Homicide charges vary significantly; manslaughter may lead to 15 years imprisonment, while first-degree murder could result in life in prison or even the death penalty depending on the circumstances. 

It is also important to note that a conviction for any violent crime can have long-term consequences that extend beyond immediate penalties. A criminal record can severely impact future employment opportunities, housing options, and personal relationships. 

Examples of Violent Crimes 

Understanding real-world scenarios can clarify how violent crimes manifest in daily life. Consider the following examples: 

Bar Fight: After a few drinks, a disagreement between two patrons escalates into a physical altercation. One individual may be charged with assault if they merely threatened the other. If they physically strike the other person, that could lead to battery charges, and if a weapon such as a bar stool is used, the charge could elevate to aggravated battery. 

Domestic Violence: Violence in intimate relationships often leads to complex legal situations. An argument between partners may escalate, resulting in one partner being charged with battery if they push or hit the other. If the victim is pregnant, the charge could escalate to aggravated battery, which carries heavier penalties. 

Robbery Incident: Imagine an individual who, in a moment of desperation, threatens another person with a weapon to steal their wallet. This would be classified as armed robbery, a serious felony with potential long-term consequences. 

Defenses to Violent Crime Charges 

In cases of violent crimes, various defenses may be employed, depending on the circumstances. Here are some common defenses: 

• Self-Defense: Perhaps the most frequently cited defense, self-defense argues that the accused acted to protect themselves from imminent harm. However, this defense must be approached cautiously, as the level of force used must be proportionate to the perceived threat. 

• Defense of Others: Similar to self-defense, this applies when an individual intervenes to protect someone else from harm. 

• Accident: Sometimes, violent acts occur unintentionally. A defense could argue that the actions in question were accidental, with no intent to cause harm. 

• Lack of Intent: In some cases, proving that the accused lacked the requisite intent can be a valid defense, particularly in assault cases. 

• False Accusation: In certain circumstances, individuals may be wrongfully accused of violent crimes due to misunderstandings, fabrications, or ulterior motives by the accuser.