The Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A., is dedicated to representing Florida clients who face criminal charges for various offenses.
Criminal Defense Lawyer In Fort Lauderdale
Being charged with a crime can be one of the most serious challenges you face in life. It often causes feelings of fear, uncertainty, and isolation. The future may seem bleak, perhaps even hopeless. In such critical situations, you need someone by your side who will look out for your interests and ensure that your rights are protected.
For even the most serious charges, you are entitled to legal counsel and representation. Our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer will diligently evaluate your charges and work tirelessly to build a strong defense. We have the experience and skill to handle a variety of cases ranging from serious felonies to misdemeanors.
Types Of Criminal Charges In Fort Lauderdale
Our Fort Lauderdale, criminal defense attorney, helps clients charged with the following crimes:
- DUI
- Drug possession
- Assault
- Battery
- Domestic violence
- Reckless driving
- Cybercrimes
- White-collar crime
If law enforcement has charged you with one of these or similar crimes, you need assistance immediately. Schedule a free consultation with our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney.
Assault Vs. Battery: Similarities And Differences
Assault and battery are common felony charges, and they are frequently grouped together. However, they are distinct crimes, so it is helpful to understand in which ways they differ, as well as their similarities.
The legal definition of assault is “causing or attempting to cause injury to someone else.” This can include verbal threats and intimidating behavior toward one or more individuals. While these encounters are often followed by acts of violence, it is important to keep in mind that physical contact is not a necessary legal prerequisite for assault charges. The alleged victim’s reasonable cause to fear for his or her safety and well-being is sufficient.
Battery, on the other hand, occurs only when there is physical contact considered unlawful, as in the case of causing someone intentional harm. Battery’s legal definition also implies that the alleged victim did not consent to physical contact, which means that this charge can also be filed for an act deemed to be offensive, such as an unwanted sexual advance.
What Constitutes Reckless Driving?
Our experienced Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer also handles reckless driving cases. Reckless driving charges are often preceded by significant damage to motor vehicles and/or serious bodily harm to individuals. The Florida definition of a reckless driver is, “Any person who drives any vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.”
Though Florida law categorizes reckless driving as a misdemeanor, a conviction can result in incarceration times of up to 90 days. However, if the incident does result in bodily harm, it will be upgraded to a felony, which carries up to a five-year sentence.
Call us for a free consultation, so that you can discuss your legal options with an experienced Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney.
The Definition Of Burglary
Our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney can also represent you if you have a charge of burglary or theft. The two are often confused. Burglary is the unlawful entry of a building with the intent to commit a felony or other crime. It can occur via forcible entry, without forcible entry, or attempted forcible entry. Burglary may or may not be a violent crime. Sometimes it is only deemed a property crime. Attorney David Williams can evaluate your situation and determine whether your charge is accurate and valid, and build a case for your legal defense.
The Definition Of Theft
Theft occurs when one person deprives or endeavors to deprive another of their lawful property. In Florida, theft becomes a felony when the value of the stolen property exceeds $300. Florida law divides felony theft into first, second, and third degrees. Third-degree theft, which is the theft of more than $100,000 of value, can carry penalties of up to 30 years in prison. Theft also includes identity theft or the theft of trade secrets. Regardless of your circumstances, time is of the essence. Take the first step and call us today for a free consultation.
(954) 466-0104