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Statutory Maximum Sentences For Felony Offenses

Under Florida law, judges may not have a choice when sentencing a person following a felony conviction, including a plea agreement. For both federal and state felony convictions, there are sentencing guidelines the judge will refer to when making the decision about the prison sentence. Judges may not exceed the statutory maximum sentence. In cases of a repeat offenses, certain narcotics offenses or offenses that cause physical injury or death of a victim, there are mandatory minimum sentences.

Florida’s 10-20-Life Statutory Maximum Sentences For Felony Offenses

In 1999, the Florida State Legislature responded to a growing number of felony armed robberies and assault cases involving the use of firearms by passing a minimum sentence law for crimes involving the use of a gun. (The previous year, more than 31,000 felony crimes involved the use of a gun.)

The law requires judges to apply minimum sentences, even for first-time offenders. Mandatory sentences include:

  • Revealing a firearm during the crime = Minimum 10-year prison sentence
  • Firing the firearm = Minimum 20-year prison sentence
  • Injuring or killing the victim(s) with the firearm = Minimum 25 years to life

Maximum Prison Sentences For Federal And State Crimes

Maximum prison sentences are harsh in the Florida justice system. Federal sentencing guidelines are even harsher and involve a separate sentencing phase following a guilty verdict or plea. If you are facing a prison sentence for a felony crime, you will need an aggressive attorney familiar with the sentencing guidelines and strategies for successfully arguing for a minimum or reduced sentence. Call O’Brien Hatfield, P.A.. We are a team of experienced federal and state criminal defense lawyers with a successful record of helping our clients avoid maximum prison sentences.

Some Maximum Sentences For Felony Convictions Include:

  • Third-degree felony: Up to five years
  • Second-degree felony: Up to 15 years
  • First-degree felony: Up to 30 years
  • Life felony: Up to Life
  • Capital cases: Death

Contact Us · Free Initial Case Evaluation · Se Habla Español

From our offices in Tampa and Orlando, we represent clients in felony criminal cases throughout Florida. Call us at 813-440-2347 or send an email to arrange an opportunity to meet with one of our attorneys at no initial cost.