Felony Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manatee County
Defending Your Rights with a Team-Driven Approach
Facing felony charges in Manatee County can be incredibly daunting, but you don't have to navigate this situation alone. At McIntosh Law, we prioritize your defense using a team-oriented approach that draws from over 100 years of our combined legal experience. This collaborative method allows us to provide comprehensive defense strategies specifically tailored to each client's circumstances, giving you the robust legal representation you deserve.
Our dedication to a client-first methodology means that your case benefits from the strength and diversity of our entire legal team. With backgrounds in various aspects of criminal law, each member contributes unique insights, enhancing our ability to challenge evidence and develop innovative defense strategies. This teamwork ensures that we explore every possible angle to protect your rights and pursue a favorable outcome.
Schedule a confidential virtual consultation with a skilled felony attorney in Manatee County today. Fast, convenient, and effective legal help is just a call away. Dial (941) 299-0701 or reach out online now.
Felony Charge Classifications in Florida
Florida law classifies criminal offenses into two primary categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The severity of the charge dictates the potential penalties and the long-term impact on your life. A felony criminal defense lawyer in Manatee County from McIntosh Law will explain the specific classification of your charge.
Florida classifies felonies into five categories, with escalating penalties:
Third-Degree Felonies:
- Maximum Penalties: Up to five (5) years in state prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
- Examples: Grand theft (value $750 to $20,000), aggravated assault, certain drug possessions, burglary of an unoccupied structure,
Second-Degree Felonies:
- Maximum Penalties: Up to fifteen (15) years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Examples: Burglary of a dwelling, aggravated battery, manslaughter, sexual assault (certain types), dealing in stolen property,
Skilled Defenders On Your Side Over 100 Years of Combined Experience
Here's What Sets Us Apart
-
Deep Local Knowledge & Dedication
With over 25 years serving Manatee County, McIntosh Law is committed to defending our community’s rights with integrity.
-
Powerful Team Approach
You don’t just get a lawyer—you get an entire team collaborating for your success. Our attorneys and paralegals have over 100+ years of combined experience.
-
Strategic & Experienced Defense
Your case deserves a personalized strategy. Every team member has over twenty years in law, ensuring a skilled, thoughtful defense tailored to your specific case.
-
Proven Success
Trusted by thousands, we know what it takes to navigate complex criminal cases, bringing experience and results-driven focus to every stage of your defense.
Common Felony Charges We Defend
McIntosh Law provides comprehensive defense for a wide range of felony charges in Florida, including but not limited to:
- Violent Crimes: Murder (First, Second, Third-Degree), Capital Murder, Manslaughter, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, Robbery, Aggravated Robbery, Kidnapping.
- Drug Crimes: Possession of a Controlled Substance (felony level), Possession with Intent to Sell/Deliver, Manufacturing, Trafficking (all schedules and quantities).
- Theft & Property Crimes: Grand Theft (all degrees), Burglary (all degrees), Arson, Dealing in Stolen Property.
- Sex Crimes: Sexual Battery (all degrees), Lewd and Lascivious Acts, Child Pornography, Sexual Assault on a Child.
- White Collar Crimes: All forms of Fraud (e.g., Mail, Wire, Bank, Insurance, Healthcare, Mortgage), Embezzlement, Identity Theft, Money Laundering.
- DUI Felonies: Third or Subsequent DUI, DUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury, DUI Manslaughter.
- Weapons Charges: Carrying a Concealed Firearm, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Improper Exhibition of a Firearm.
- Racketeering (RICO): Organized crime activities.
No matter the nature of the accusation, a felony criminal defense lawyer in Manatee County from McIntosh Law is equipped to provide aggressive and knowledgeable representation.
Collateral Consequences
A felony conviction in Florida brings profound and lasting consequences that extend far beyond direct legal penalties. It results in a permanent criminal record that cannot be expunged, severely limiting future employment opportunities, housing options, and educational prospects. This also leads to the permanent loss of civil rights, including voting, firearm possession, serving on a jury, and holding public office. If you hold a professional license, it will almost certainly be suspended or permanently revoked, effectively ending your career.
Furthermore, a felony conviction can lead to severe immigration consequences for non-U.S. citizens, including immediate deportation and permanent inadmissibility to the United States. It also creates significant employment challenges beyond professional licenses, imposes housing restrictions, and causes educational limitations affecting financial aid eligibility. Many felony convictions, even if not vehicle-related, result in driver's license suspension, and all carry immense social stigma, damaging reputation and personal relationships.
Manatee County Court Procedures: What to Expect
Navigating the legal system can be complex, especially in Manatee County. The court processes here may differ from other areas in Florida, and understanding these nuances is crucial for a strong defense. Our team at McIntosh Law ensures that you are fully prepared for each stage of the legal process, from arraignment to trial.
With local courts, the procedures can often reflect community-specific standards and practices, requiring a lawyer familiar with these subtleties. We guide you through initial hearings, plea negotiations, and potential trial scenarios while maintaining focus on achieving the most favorable outcome possible. By partnering with you throughout this process, we ensure that you're never alone or unaware of your situation.
How Our Team Approach Enhances Your Defense
At McIntosh Law, our collaborative approach means that your case benefits from the collective insights and experiences of multiple attorneys and paralegals. This team-driven model enhances our ability to develop a strategic defense tailored to your unique case.
By pooling our resources and knowledge, we're able to uncover every potential defense avenue and deliver a robust legal strategy that you can trust. This collaborative effort is about maximizing outcomes while also ensuring that every client feels supported throughout the legal process.
Furthermore, our collaborative approach allows for constant communication and adjustment of strategies based on real-time developments in your case. This flexibility and responsiveness are crucial in adapting to any shift in legal precedents or prosecutorial tactics.
Contact Us for a Dedicated Defense Strategy
If you're facing felony charges in Manatee County, reaching out to a dedicated criminal defense team can make all the difference. At McIntosh Law, we offer compassionate, strategic, and comprehensive defense services tailored to your specific needs.
Call us today at (941) 299-0701 or fill out this online form for a consultation, and let us stand by you in this challenging time, offering the experienced, team-driven approach that only we can provide.
