In Florida, a felony represents a category of serious criminal offenses, including a wide range of crimes such as homicide, robbery, sexual assault, drug trafficking, and white-collar offenses.
These felonies are categorized into three degrees: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree felonies, each with varying degrees of severity. Convictions for felonies in Florida can result in significant penalties, such as imprisonment, fines, probation, and other legal consequences.
Understanding the classification of felonies and their potential effects is crucial for anyone navigating the Florida criminal justice system, especially if you aim to clear your criminal record.
In Florida, a felony can stay on your record for the rest of your life (unless you get it expunged). Depending on the severity of the crime, you might either be committed to the death penalty or incarceration in a state prison. The state classifies felonies into five degrees below:
A capital felony conviction can result in a life sentence or the death penalty, which is exclusively determined by a judge.
If convicted of a life felony, an individual faces life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
A first-degree felony carries a potential prison term of up to 30 years.
Second-degree felonies may result in imprisonment for up to 15 years.
A third-degree felony can lead to a prison term of up to 5 years.
Expunging a felony in Florida is contingent on meeting specific eligibility requirements, including:
You can receive results in under two minutes to check your eligibility for expungement in Florida.
Expunging a felony in Florida brings benefits like improved job opportunities, housing acceptance, and peace of mind during background checks. It also safeguards personal information, enhances educational prospects, and, in some cases, restores firearm rights. Sealing felonies in Florida offers privacy, better job prospects, housing opportunities, reinstated civil rights, and peace of mind, as it keeps the record private and lessens the impact on your life.
The statute of limitations in Florida sets a specific timeframe within which the state can initiate an investigation, make an arrest, and file criminal charges for a particular felony offense. The duration varies based on the severity of the felony; here are the following:
Check this article to know: How Long Can A Felony Charge Be Pending in Florida?
At Erase the Case, we specialize in felony offense expungement cases in Florida. Our experienced attorneys can help you through the legal process and help you regain control of your life by erasing your past and building a brighter future. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your eligibility and how we can assist you.
No, a felony conviction does not naturally disappear from your record in Florida. However, you can explore options like expungement or sealing to mitigate the impact of a felony on your criminal record.
Not all felonies can be expunged in Florida. Generally, non-violent and less serious felonies have a higher likelihood of eligibility for expungement. However, specific eligibility criteria can vary, and it's crucial to consult legal experts to determine if your particular felony conviction qualifies.
Once convicted of a felony in Florida, you are considered a felon for life unless you take legal steps to expunge or seal the felony from your record.
Clear your criminal record in Florida through a process called expungement or sealing. Consult with Erase the Case to determine eligibility and guide you through the legal procedures.
Felons in Florida may face various consequences, including the limitation, worse loss, of specific civil rights, such as the right to hold public office, vote, or possess firearms.
