Criminal Defense Attorney in Orlando
Experienced Defense Lawyer Serving Orange County, Florida
If you were recently arrested for a criminal offense, it is crucial to seek the immediate assistance of the Orlando criminal defense lawyer at Mazin Law. Attorney Lyle Mazin has more than a decade of experience and is committed to defending the rights of the men and women he represents.
As an assertive trial lawyer, he is not afraid of taking a case to court. As your passionate and relentless legal advocate, he can challenge the charges being made against you to secure the most favorable case result possible.
Accused and not sure what to do next? Contact the criminal defense lawyer in Orlando at (407) 477-6744 for a free criminal case evaluation.
Criminal Charges We Handle in Orlando, FL
Our criminal defense practice handles the following kinds of criminal cases:
Our extensive experience in these practice areas ensures a thorough understanding of the local laws and courts in Orlando, allowing us to provide formidable defenses tailored to each client's specific situation. This transparent approach ensures that you are fully informed of your rights and the intricacies of the legal proceedings.
Why You Should Hire Mazin Law to Represent You
Attorney Mazin's qualifications include:
- Repeated inclusion on the Super Lawyers® list
- Named among the Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers in 2013
- Recipient of the Avvo Client's Choice Award in 2012
- He is an executive board member of the Orange County Criminal Law Committee
These accolades are a testament to Attorney Mazin's commitment to providing high-caliber legal representation. By staying actively engaged in both the local and wider legal community, he ensures that his practices are not only effective but also innovative and aligned with the latest legal developments. Clients can rely on this robust foundation of knowledge and experience when navigating the complexities of their cases.
Case Result: Domestic Violence | 6-11-12 | DISMISSED | Orange County
Understanding Criminal Charges in Florida
Florida law classifies criminal offenses into two primary categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The severity of the charge dictates the potential penalties and the long-term impact on your life. An Orlando criminal defense attorney from Mazin Law will explain the specific classification of your charge.
Misdemeanors:
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, typically punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines. Florida divides misdemeanors into two classes:
- Second-Degree Misdemeanors: Carry a maximum penalty of up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
- Examples: Disorderly conduct, petit theft (value less than $100), simple assault (threat of violence without physical contact).
- First-Degree Misdemeanors: Carry a maximum penalty of up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
- Examples: Petit theft (value $100 to $749), simple battery (unwanted physical contact), first-offense DUI, domestic violence battery (first offense).
Felonies:
Felonies are the most serious crimes, punishable by more than one year in state prison and substantial fines. Florida categorizes felonies into several classes, with escalating penalties:
- Third-Degree Felonies: Maximum penalty of up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
- Examples: Grand theft (value $750 to $20,000), aggravated assault, certain drug possessions, burglary of an unoccupied structure.
- Second-Degree Felonies: Maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Examples: Burglary of a dwelling, aggravated battery, manslaughter, certain drug trafficking offenses.
- First-Degree Felonies: Maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Some first-degree felonies are punishable by life imprisonment.
- Examples: Robbery, kidnapping, sexual battery, drug trafficking (large quantities), certain grand theft crimes.
- Felonies Punishable by Life: Maximum penalty of life in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
- Examples: Certain aggravated batteries on law enforcement officers, repeat serious violent offenses.
- Capital Felonies: Punishable by death or life in prison without the possibility of parole.
- Examples: First-degree premeditated murder, capital drug trafficking offenses.
The specific nuances of each felony charge, including aggravating factors like the use of a weapon, injury to a victim, or prior criminal history, can significantly impact the severity level and potential sentence. Navigating these distinctions requires the focused attention of a seasoned Orlando criminal defense lawyer.
