Your Right to Defend Yourself
If someone attacks you, you have the right to defend yourself. This is commonly known as self-defense. As simple as this may sound, this was not always the case in Florida. Fortunately, Florida was one of the first states to make changes in their laws that expand the doctrine of self-defense.
Florida’s ‘Stand Your Ground’ Law
Under an expansion of the Castle Doctrine, Florida changed its self-defense laws in 2005 to what is now known as Florida’s “stand your ground” law. Prior to this change, if a person attacked you, you only had a legal right to defend yourself with the use of force if you were in your home (hence, the older “castle” doctrine). However, under Florida’s new law, you are now able to defend yourself with force outside your home.
One of the major benefits of Florida’s “stand your ground” law is that you now have a right to file a motion to have a hearing on your immunity from prosecution before trial. Hiring an attorney early on can ensure pitfalls of a trial. Instead, you can have a judge grant you immunity prior to ever having a trial date set. The standard for this is showing by a preponderance of the evidence that you were legally justified to defend yourself — you were in fear and the person was going to attack you.
Self Defense And Lethal Force
There is a huge difference between self-defense and defense using lethal force. The only time deadly force is considered self-defense is if a person reasonably believes it is necessary to do so to prevent death or great bodily harm.
One of the most common areas that involves self-defense is domestic violence. If you have a domestic violence matter and require representation, I can also assist you with that.
Contact An Aggressive, Experienced Attorney
If you are facing any type of criminal charge, it is important to take action right away. The sooner you act, the more time you and your lawyer have to build a strong criminal defense, including self-defense arguments. Call The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A., toll free during business hours at 954-533-2756 and after hours at 954-297-6546. You can also reach me online. Consultations are always free and confidential.
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Traffic Tickets and Criminal Traffic Offenses
Many people do not realize the serious legal consequences that can come with traffic violations — but these things should be taken seriously.
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First Offender and Diversion Program
The benefits of obtaining an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible cannot be stressed enough.
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Drug Sale, Manufacture and Delivery
The Florida Legislature has made it unlawful for any person to sell, manufacture or deliver,
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Drug Trafficking / Minimum Mandatory Sentences
Penalties for drug crimes in Florida vary depending on the type and quantity of drug
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Prescription Drug Offenses
Florida has some of the strictest laws against illegal drug possession, manufacturing and distribution.
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Drug Possession
Florida law takes drug crimes seriously and, as your lawyer, it is my job to build a serious defense.
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Juvenile Law
Kids make mistakes.
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Self-Defense
If someone attacks you, you have the right to defend yourself.
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Early Termination of Probation
There are multiple reasons that people run into problems with their probation, and many of them are beyond their control.
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Fighting Against a Restraining Order
While a restraining order is often issued temporarily, it can have a long-term effect on the receiver.
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Obtaining a Restraining Order
As a victim of domestic violence, abuse, harassment or stalking, you have the right to seek a restraining order.
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Domestic Violence
Sometimes situations get out of control. Other times, false allegations are made.
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Record Sealing and Expungements
If you could have your criminal offenses sealed or erased,
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DUI Penalties
DUI Driving Under The Influence
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DUI
The police are not your friends.
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Theft Offenses
At The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A., I handle a wide range of theft crimes, from petty theft to first-degree grand theft.
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Sex Crimes
The benefits of obtaining an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible cannot be stressed enough
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Firearms Offenses and Violent Crimes
Florida weapons charges laws have become increasingly strict, and the potential sentences people face are longer.
Contact Me For A Flat-Fee Divorce
For legal representation in any dissolution of marriage matter, please reach out to me online or call me toll free at 954-533-2756.
