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If someone has been accused of a violent crime, their freedom, reputation, and future could be taken away from them immediately. Prosecutors frequently seek harsh punishments for convicted defendants. A Fort Myers violent crime lawyer can clarify how the evidence can be assessed and explain your legal rights if you’ve been accused of a crime.
Throughout his years as a prosecutor, Mr. Caldarone worked on countless criminal cases that made their way to trial. Now, he applies what he learned on the other side of the aisle to defend the rights of those who have been charged with a crime. Many violent crime cases in Fort Myers and Lee County are heard at the Lee County Justice Center, located at 1700 Monroe St, Fort Myers, FL 33901.
According to NeighborhoodScout, there were 328 violent crimes in a given year. This amounted to a crime rate of 3.28 per 1,000 residents, with the chance of becoming a violent crime victim being 1 in 305. Violent crimes are crimes that accuse an individual of physically harming another person through force, threats, or intimidation.
Each violent crime has different elements that must be proven by the prosecution. Florida statutes contain several crimes that fall under the violent crime category, including:
Florida’s violent crime laws establish what constitutes each crime and the potential penalties. For instance, Florida Statute 784.03 defines the crime of battery as anytime one person intentionally physically touches or strikes someone else against their will. Aggravated assault is covered under Florida Statute 784.021.
Given the gravity of potential punishments in violent crime cases, the prosecution must establish every facet of the offense beyond any reasonable doubt. There are many types of evidence that could be used against a defendant. Eyewitness testimony, physical evidence, video surveillance, and police reports are just some examples of information that may be used to support the prosecutor’s case in Fort Myers.
Violent crimes can happen in many different situations. Some violent crimes occur between family members, friends, or other people who know each other. Other crimes are charged in connection with burglary or robbery.
Police may arrest someone for a violent crime within hours or days after the alleged incident. Once an arrest has been made, the prosecutor’s office can review the police report and decide whether to file formal charges. When investigating these types of crimes, law enforcement tends to work quickly.
Just because someone has been accused of a crime, it does not mean the police have the full story. Eyewitness testimony can conflict, physical evidence can be inconclusive, and even victims can make mistakes identifying their attackers.
Violent crimes can result in felony charges in Florida. Defendants may face jail time or prison sentences, large fines, and may have a felony on their permanent record. Additionally, judges often require convicted defendants to serve mandatory minimum prison sentences for certain violent crimes. Weapons enhancements and serious injuries can increase penalties.
A criminal conviction can cause someone to lose their job, ability to rent an apartment, or professional license. Certain convictions can also cause defendants to lose their civil rights.
Click To Call: 239-537-0439
Once someone has been arrested for a violent crime, the prosecutor can begin working on their case. This means they can start gathering evidence for the trial and building a case against the defendant. If an individual wishes to hire a violent crime lawyer, it is crucial that they do so immediately. Having a Fort Myers violent crime attorney early on can allow them to start going over the evidence and preparing a defense.
Once a client retains counsel for a violent crime, the lawyer can review the evidence with them. The attorney can determine what evidence the prosecutor has, whether it was obtained legally, and whether any witnesses are testifying. Once an attorney has evaluated the strength of the prosecution’s case, they can work with their client to develop a strong defense strategy. Defense attorneys can also speak on behalf of their clients in court and negotiate with prosecutors.
If the alleged victim changes their story in a violent crime case, the prosecution’s case may be weakened by a changed statement, but it is not always over. Previous statements, tangible evidence, or other witnesses may be used by prosecutors. Inconsistencies might be used by your lawyer to undermine credibility and bolster your case.
Yes, social media can be used against you in a violent crime case. If you posted a video or spoke about the crime, even in private messages, this can be used as evidence in a court case. Even if you speak just to try to clear your name, this can be presented in court. It is most beneficial to refrain from speaking about the case in any capacity, especially while it is ongoing, except to your attorney.
There may be limitations placed on your ability to travel, particularly if you are out on bond. To leave the state or even your immediate vicinity, you could be required to obtain permission from the court. A bond may be revoked, and further legal repercussions may be imposed if travel restrictions are violated.
Sometimes charges of violent crime can be reduced or even dismissed due to lack of evidence, unreliable witness testimony, or problems with how the investigation was conducted. Your defense attorney can review police reports, analyze the evidence, and challenge the prosecutor’s case to see if an acceptable resolution is possible.
If you have been charged with a violent crime in Fort Myers, Florida, a lawyer can assist you in advocating for your rights and future. The Caldarone Law Group, P.A. can help. Contact us today to speak with a representative and begin working on securing your future.
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