Florida Statute § 784.03(1)(a) establishes that a person commits the offense of battery when he or she actually and intentionally touches or strikes another person against his or her will; or intentionally causes bodily harm to another person. Ordinarily, a battery is a first-degree misdemeanor, but under certain circumstances, an alleged offender can be charged felony battery.
A felony battery conviction carries much steeper penalties than a misdemeanor offense, including a longer prison sentence and a more significant fine. The long-term consequences are also more severe, as people convicted of these crimes can face enormous challenges in employment, housing, and professional licensing matters because of their being convicted felons.
Attorney for Felony Battery Arrests in West Palm Beach, FL
Were you recently arrested in South Florida for an alleged felony battery offense? Do not make any statement to authorities without legal counsel. Contact Meltzer & Bell, P.A. as soon as possible.
Lawrence Meltzer and Steven Bell are experienced criminal defense lawyers in West Palm Beach who defend clients accused of violent crimes in communities throughout Palm Beach County, Miami-Dade County, and Broward County, such as Palm Beach Gardens, Royal Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Jupiter, and many others.
Call (561) 557-8686 right now to have our attorneys provide a complete evaluation of your case during a free initial consultation.
Overview of Felony Battery Crimes in Palm Beach County
- When is battery classified as a felony offense?
- What are the consequences of a felony battery conviction?
- Where can I find more information about felony battery in West Palm Beach?
Florida Felony Battery Charges
Florida state law provides two ways in which a person can be charged with felony battery. Under Florida Statute § 784.03(2), an indvidual who has one prior conviction for battery, aggravated battery, or felony battery and who commits any second or subsequent battery commits felony battery.
Florida Statute § 784.041 defines felony battery as also being committed when a person:
- Actually and intentionally touches or strikes another person against the will of the other; and
- Causes great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement.
Both felony battery violations are classified as third-degree felony offenses.
Felony Battery Penalties in West Palm Beach
As a third-degree felony, felony battery convictions are punishable by sentences of up to five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. Additional punishments that may be ordered by the court can include, but are not limited to:
- Community service;
- Substance abuse evaluations and treatment;
- Counseling; and
- Restitution.
Cases involving alleged domestic violence can also involve alleged offenders being required to complete a Batterer’s Intervention Program.
Felony Battery Resources in Florida
Victim / Witness Unit | Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office — On this section of the Sheriff’s Office website, you can read about the rights that crime victims have under the Florida Constitution. You can also learn more about victim harassment, victim advocates, and the Victim/Witness program. The website also provides an overview of the criminal justice process.
Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office
3228 Gun Club Rd.
West Palm Beach, FL 33406
(561) 688-3000
Public Safety | Victim Services Home | Palm Beach County — Palm Beach County Victim Services is an independent organization within the Palm Beach County Department of Public Safety that works closely with the 15th Judicial Circuit Office of the State Attorney and law enforcement agencies. The Victim Services Directory section of the website contains information about advocacy services, human trafficking, and therapy services. You can also access numerous county, public safety, and public affairs publications.
Find a Felony Battery Defense Lawyer in West Palm Beach, FL
If you were arrested for felony battery anywhere in South Florida, it is in your best interest to exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal representation. Meltzer & Bell, P.A. represents residents and visitors in Riviera Beach, Wellington, Boynton Beach, Greenacres, Lake Worth, and many surrounding areas of Broward County, Miami-Dade County, and Palm Beach County.
West Palm Beach criminal defense attorneys Lawrence Meltzer and Steven Bell can fight to possibly get your criminal charges reduced or dismissed. They can review your case and discuss all of your legal options as soon as you call (561) 557-8686 or fill out an online form to receive a free, confidential consultation.
