Being charged with a criminal offense for the first time can be an extremely traumatic and stressful experience. Fortunately for individuals with no previous criminal history, there are several options that can help those accused of their first crime avoid jail time and have their charges reduced or dismissed.
While the judicial system affords certain offenders without a criminal background some leniency in regards to sentencing, it is important to understand that this does not mean you should risk going to court without professional legal representation. You will want to fully understand all of your legal options in order to ensure that you obtain the most favorable outcome possible to your case.
If you have been arrested and charged with your first criminal offense, Galigani Law Firm defends the rights of clients in Gainesville, as well as communities like Alachua, Ocala, and Lake City. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys understand the nature of the penalties you face and can work to help resolve your case with the least amount of personal and professional damage possible.
Contact our firm today at (352) 375-0812 or send us a message online to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Our dedicated and compassionate lawyers will review your case and provide you with a fuller understanding of your defense options.
There are several different crimes that an individual may be arrested for in Alachua County, but some of the most common offenses people are charged with for the first time include:
You should know that the state of Florida takes all of these charges seriously and may pursue the maximum punishment allowable even if it is your first offense.
The level of the consequences you face for your alleged first offense depends on both the type and severity of the crime you have been accused of. Even less serious crimes can involve fines and possible jail time. The maximum sentences for crimes in Florida are as follows:
Many individuals face misdemeanor charges for their first offenses, but you should still consult a criminal defense attorney to give yourself the best chance of receiving the most minimal punishment possible.
There are a variety of options that alleged offenders have as alternatives to jail time in Alachua County. An individual may agree to enter a Deferred Prosecution Program, County Diversion Program (CDP), Pretrial Diversion Program (PTD), or Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI) that offers significantly less consequences than pleading guilty in court. Some of the alternative options a criminal defense lawyer may secure include the following:
While many of these programs are attractive and popular options for those facing their first offenses, you will still want to have an attorney make sure you are accepting the best agreement for your particular situation that does not have adverse affects on your personal or professional life.
Galigani Law Firm aggressively defends the rights of alleged offenders in Alachua County, but we also represent clients in Gilchrist County, Levy County, Marion County, and Columbia County. Our criminal defense attorneys have a wealth of experience in helping clients facing all types of criminal charges.
If you were arrested for the first time, don't take any chances by assuming the prosecutor will take it easy on you because of your lack of a criminal history. Take advantage of a free consultation with our firm by contacting us today at (352) 375-0812 or sending us a message online.