If you have been charged with aggravated assault with a firearm then you may have a defense. “Stand your Ground” and self-defense are both defenses that are oftentimes presented when fighting an aggravated assault case. Even if you don’t think you have a defense, you should always speak to an attorney to make sure you have a full understanding of how the law applies specifically to your case. If you want to know more about how to beat your aggravated assault with a firearm case in Florida, contact Matthew Williams now for a free consultation.
Aggravated assault with a firearm in Florida is defined as an intentional and unlawful threat against another person with a firearm, which creates a reasonable fear that violence or harm is imminent, under Florida Statute 784.021.
Aggravated assault with a firearm is a third-degree felony, meaning it is punishable by up to five years in prison or up to five years of probation, and a $5,000 fine (you can also get a jail or prison sentence followed by probation, but the total length of the punishment cannot exceed five years). In addition to facing prison time, if you are adjudicated guilty of aggravated assault then you will lose a number of constitutional rights and you will never be able to remove the felony conviction from your permanent record.
*If the victim in an aggravated assault case is a law enforcement officer, firefighter or EMT, then the charge will be reclassified from a third-degree felony to a second-degree felony, meaning it will be punishable by up to 15 years. There is also a three-year mandatory minimum sentence for anyone convicted of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, firefighter or EMT.
Criminal convictions carry severe consequences and can never be removed from your criminal record. If you are convicted of a felony you will lose your right to vote, your right to own firearms, and your right to maintain certain business licenses. You can also lose your ability to receive financial aid, your ability to live in certain places, and your ability to obtain a passport.
If you need an attorney who will advise you, fight for your rights, and do everything possible to protect your future, or if someone you know has been charged with aggravated assault with a firearm in Florida, then contact Matthew Williams now for a free consultation.