Hollywood Criminal Defense Attorneys
Honest and Committed Advocate Familiar with the Judges
Facing criminal charges can be an intimidating experience. Our team knows how important it is to have someone who listens, understands, and respects your circumstances. When you work with us, you’ll find a defense attorney who treats you with dignity, takes the time to understand your side of the story and is dedicated to fighting for you at every stage of the legal process. Our approach centers on building a defense that aligns with your needs, goals, and personal circumstances.
At Magilligan Law, we promote honest and individualized legal representation as we work with our clients on building their defense. We are always trying to get the best results for our clients facing harsh criminal charges, and we treat all our clients like family. We also have a strong reputation among the judges and legal community. When you work with Magilligan Law, you can expect to work with a non-judgmental and accepting criminal defense attorney who will champion your side in court.
Schedule a free consultation with Magilligan Law at (954) 833-1454 or online here for more information.
Domestic Violence Laws in Florida
One serious category of crime in Florida is domestic violence. Domestic violence in the state is defined as assault or battery, aggravated assault or battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death committed by a family or household member against another family or household member.
A family or household member refers to any of the following persons:
- current or former spouses;
- persons related by blood or marriage;
- persons currently or formerly residing together as if a family; or
- parents who have a child in common, regardless of whether they were at any time married.
A defendant found guilty of a domestic violence offense must serve a minimum of 1 year on probation, during which they must attend a batterers’ intervention program. If the offense involved the intentional infliction of bodily harm to another person, they must serve a minimum of 5 days in county jail unless their sentence includes a non-suspended period of incarceration in a state correctional facility.
To learn more specific details about Florida’s domestic violence laws and possible defenses against such a charge, visit our domestic violence page.
Sexual Assault/Battery Offenses
The Serious Nature of Sex Crime Charges in Florida
Sex crimes in Florida are some of the most serious offenses under state law, with convictions leading to life-changing penalties. Those found guilty of these charges often face lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a mandatory registration as a sex offender. The registration can have far-reaching impacts on an individual’s life, affecting their reputation, career prospects, and personal relationships. Such penalties underscore the importance of addressing these charges with diligence and care to ensure that every aspect of the defense process is handled effectively.
Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction
A sex crime conviction in Florida leaves a permanent mark on an individual’s record, influencing their social standing and career path. The public stigma associated with sex offender registration affects housing opportunities, professional licenses, and even personal relationships. People with this record often encounter difficulty when trying to reintegrate into society, as the registration requirement follows them long after they have served their time. This can lead to limitations in where they can live, restricted interactions, and other constraints that reshape daily life.
At Magilligan Law, we recognize the serious implications of sex crime charges and know how important it is to approach each case with a thorough understanding of the legal process. When facing accusations, individuals need a strategic defense and an advocate who can uphold their rights. Our team is committed to analyzing each aspect of a client’s case, ensuring that every piece of evidence and every defense opportunity is thoroughly considered. With a deep understanding of Florida’s laws and extensive courtroom experience, we develop tailored strategies designed to address the unique challenges of each case.
For more information on the specific elements of sex-related offenses in Florida, visit our page on sex crimes.
Misdemeanor and Felony Theft
Theft offenses are also significant crimes that could carry misdemeanor or felony penalties.
Florida law defines theft as knowingly obtaining, using, or attempting to obtain or use another’s property, with the intent to permanently or temporarily:
- deprive the person of the property, or
- convert the property to unauthorized use (e.g., embezzlement or misappropriation).
Examples of Theft
Some specific examples of theft include:
- a person walks by a restaurant table and grabs someone’s wallet;
- a shoplifter grabs a video game off the store shelf;
- a daughter has control over an elderly parent’s bank account and misuses the money to buy herself something; and
- a neighbor splices cable lines to get free video channels.
Penalties for Theft
The penalties for theft depend on several factors, such as the amount stolen, the type of property or services stolen, and the circumstances involved. In Florida, the lowest level theft offense is misdemeanor “petty theft,” which involves property valued at less than $100. A person convicted of this second-degree misdemeanor could face up to 60 days of jail time and a $500 fine. If the property stolen is valued at $100 or more but less than $750, the offender commits petty theft of the first degree, which is punishable as a misdemeanor of the first degree that carries 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Theft of property worth more than $750 will be considered grand theft, either of the third-degree (property worth $750-$20,000), second-degree (property worth $20,000-$100,000), or first-degree (property worth $100,000 or more). A felony of the third degree can result in up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine not to exceed $5,000; s felony of the second degree carries a sentence of imprisonment of up to 15 years and a fine of no more than $10,000; and a first-degree felony carries a sentence of imprisonment of up to 30 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
Why Hire a Hollywood Criminal Defense Attorney?
Facing criminal charges in Hollywood, FL, can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Navigating Florida’s criminal justice system requires an understanding of complex laws, courtroom procedures, and the strategies that prosecutors often use. A criminal defense attorney can provide valuable guidance and representation, helping you make informed decisions every step of the way.
Our criminal defense attorneys at Magilligan Law thoroughly understand criminal law and have extensive experience defending clients in a range of cases, from misdemeanors to serious felony charges. With our knowledge of the law and dedication to defending clients’ rights, we aim to reduce charges, lower penalties, or even dismiss cases altogether when possible. Hiring a criminal lawyer brings the benefit of having a legal professional who will craft a defense strategy tailored to your case, gather necessary evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s claims.
Attempting to represent yourself in criminal cases can increase the risk of conviction and lead to serious, long-term consequences. An attorney can help you avoid common legal pitfalls and protect your rights in the courtroom. Whether you’re facing charges of DUI, theft, assault, or any other crime, a Hollywood criminal defense attorney will fight for a favorable outcome and work toward minimizing the impact on your future.
Call Our Hollywood Criminal Defense Attorneys Today!
If you are facing criminal charges in Hollywood, do not hesitate to reach out to our team at Magilligan Law for legal support immediately. From domestic violence charges to sexual assault accusations to theft offenses, our criminal defense lawyer can fight in your defense and do our best to argue for mitigated or even dismissed charges.
Put an honest, committed criminal defense attorney on your Hollywood defense. Call (954) 833-1454 or contact Magilligan Law online today.