Orlando Violent Crime Lawyers

Defending Clients Who Are Facing Violent Crime Charges Throughout Central Florida

When you or a loved one is charged with a violent crime, turn to Longwell Lawyers for your criminal defense needs. We have been representing people in violent crime cases since 1993 and are prepared to go to trial on your behalf. Our Orlando criminal defense lawyers defend clients throughout all of Central Florida, fighting for them until every legal avenue has been exhausted.

We have handled thousands of criminal cases using a trial-oriented case strategy that is supported by our proven protocols and procedures that are designed to maximize efficiency, quality, and success. Our firm has a culture of creating success, focusing on getting the best results for our clients.

Facing Violent Crime Charges? Don’t wait—protect your future now. Contact us at (407) 553-9599 for a free consultation with our experienced defense attorneys.

What Are Violent Crimes?

Typically, any crime that is considered violent in nature, or uses physical or aggressive force against another person, is a violent crime. A person may be charged with a violent crime if they threaten to use violent force on another individual, even if they didn't cause any physical harm.

Examples of violent crimes include the following:

• Assault
• Assault with a deadly weapon
• Simple battery
• Aggravated battery
• Battery on a law enforcement officer
• Resisting arrest with violence
• Domestic violence / spousal abuse
• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Robbery

The violent crime that receives the harshest of penalties is murder, which is the unlawful, premeditated killing of another person. There are varying degrees of murder, and our experienced Orlando violent crime attorneys are prepared to handle cases involving any type of murder charge.

Penalties for Violent Crimes in Florida

Violent crime charges in Florida are taken very seriously, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe. The penalties for violent crimes depend on the specific offense, the level of severity, and whether any aggravating factors are involved, such as the use of a weapon or the victim’s age or health.

• Assault: Simple assault is typically a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, aggravated assault, which involves the use of a weapon or intent to commit a felony, is a felony charge and can result in up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• Battery: A simple battery is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail. Aggravated battery, involving serious injury or the use of a weapon, can lead to up to 30 years in prison.
• Murder: Murder charges in Florida are the most serious. First-degree murder can result in life imprisonment or the death penalty. Second-degree murder can lead to 25 years to life in prison. Manslaughter convictions typically result in 15 years in prison.
• Robbery: Robbery convictions vary based on the circumstances. Simple robbery can lead to up to 15 years in prison, while armed robbery can result in 25 years or more, depending on the use of a weapon.
• Domestic Violence: Domestic violence charges carry serious penalties, including mandatory counseling, probation, and up to 5 years in prison for felony charges. Convictions can also result in a permanent restraining order and loss of custody rights.

When facing charges, having an experienced Orlando violent crimes lawyer on your side is the first step toward building a strong defense.

Understanding the Impact of Violent Crime Charges

Facing violent crime charges can be a life-altering experience, not only for the accused but also for their families and communities. The repercussions of a conviction can extend far beyond legal penalties, affecting employment opportunities, personal relationships, and overall quality of life. 

Here are some key considerations regarding the implications of violent crime charges:

• Legal Consequences: Violent crime convictions can result in significant prison time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record, which can hinder future opportunities.
• Emotional and Psychological Effects: The stress of legal battles can lead to anxiety, depression, and strained relationships. It's important to seek support from professionals who can help you cope.
• Social Stigma: Being charged with a violent crime can carry a social stigma that affects personal and professional relationships, making it essential to have a strong defense team on your side.

At Longwell Lawyers, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support and compassionate guidance throughout your case. We understand the gravity of violent crime charges and are here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system. 

Defense StrategIES for Violent Crimes in Florida

An Orlando violent crimes lawyer will thoroughly examine the evidence against you and develop a defense strategy tailored to your case. Common defenses include self-defense, defense of others, false accusations, lack of intent, insufficient evidence, and alibi.

Whether it’s proving that you acted in self-defense, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, or showing that you weren’t at the scene, our experienced attorneys can help you build a strong case. 

Our team will evaluate the facts, determine the most effective defense strategy, and represent you in court. From negotiating plea deals to presenting your case during trial, we offer comprehensive support at every stage. With our help, you’ll receive the guidance and legal support needed to navigate this complex and stressful process. Let us protect your rights and work toward achieving a favorable resolution in your case.

Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law & Self-Defense

Florida’s Stand Your Ground law allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent serious harm or death. Unlike in some states, there is no duty to retreat before using force, even if escape is possible. This law applies in homes, vehicles, and public places where the individual has a legal right to be.

When Can Self-Defense Be Used?

Self-defense may be a valid legal argument in cases where:

• A person is protecting themselves from an immediate physical threat.
• They are preventing a violent crime, such as assault or robbery.
• They are defending another person from serious harm.

How an Attorney Can Help

Proving self-defense in court requires a strong legal strategy. A skilled attorney can:

• Gather evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness statements, to support your claim.
• Challenge the prosecution’s argument and prove you acted in reasonable fear of harm.
• Use forensic experts to demonstrate that you were not the aggressor.
• Having an experienced lawyer on your side can make the difference between a conviction and an acquittal.

The Role of Evidence in Violent Crime Cases

In any violent crime case, evidence is key. Prosecutors rely on various types of evidence to prove guilt, while defense attorneys work to challenge it and create reasonable doubt.

Key Types of Evidence

• Witness testimony – Statements from people who saw or heard the incident.
• Surveillance footage – Videos that may confirm or contradict the accusations.
• Forensic evidence – DNA, fingerprints, or weapon analysis used to determine involvement.

How Defense Attorneys Challenge Evidence

A defense lawyer can:

• Point out inconsistencies in witness statements.
• Examine whether evidence was collected legally or if a search violated your rights.
• Present expert testimony to challenge forensic findings.

Law Enforcement Mistakes That Can Lead to Wrongful Accusations

• Mishandling or contaminating evidence.
• Coercing confessions from suspects.
• Allowing personal bias to influence investigations.

A good defense attorney will carefully analyze the evidence against you and expose any flaws in the prosecution’s case.

Wrongful Accusations & False Allegations

Wrongful accusations can happen for many reasons, and they can have devastating consequences. Even if a person is innocent, they may face prison time, a criminal record, and permanent damage to their reputation.

Why Do Wrongful Accusations Happen?

• Mistaken identity – The accused may look similar to the actual perpetrator.
• Personal motives – Some accusers make false claims out of revenge, jealousy, or to gain an advantage in legal disputes, such as child custody cases.
• Law enforcement errors – Police officers may rush an investigation, ignore key evidence, or pressure someone into a false confession.

How a Lawyer Can Fight False Allegations

• Cross-examine the accuser to reveal inconsistencies in their story.
• Present alibi evidence proving the accused was not at the crime scene.
• Use forensic analysis and expert testimony to challenge unreliable evidence.

Real-Life Examples of Overturned Cases

• DNA evidence proving someone else committed the crime.
• Witnesses recanting false statements.
• Surveillance footage showing the accused was not involved.

False accusations can turn a person’s life upside down. If you have been wrongfully accused, an experienced criminal defense attorney can help clear your name and protect your future.

Contact Our Violent Crimes Attorneys Today

With a former prosecutor on our legal team, we are ready to aggressively defend your rights against any violent crime accusations. Let our violent crimes lawyers in Orlando provide the strategic support and defense you need during this challenging time. We always pursue the best possible results for our clients. 

Your Defense Starts Here! If you’ve been accused of a violent crime, you need strong legal representation. Contact us today at (407) 553-9599 to discuss your case.