What Are the Most Common Criminal Charges in Tampa?

As the leading criminal defense lawyers in Tampa, the team at Rickman Law Firm is well-versed in the various types of criminal charges throughout the Bay area. We firmly believe that from DUIs to domestic violence charges, knowing the types of charges a defendant may be facing is key when developing an effective legal strategy.

Driving Under the Influence

DUI charges are one of the most frequent offenses in Tampa. In Florida, a DUI is defined as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher. 

Penalties for a first-time DUI may include fines, jail time of up to six months, mandatory DUI school, community service, and license suspension. Repeat offenses or DUIs involving injuries or fatalities result in even more severe penalties, including lengthier jail sentences and additional fines.

Drug Offenses

Drug-related charges are also common and can range from possession to trafficking. Penalties for drug offenses vary based on the type and amount of the substance, as well as the efficacy of your criminal defense lawyer in Tampa.

For instance, possessing a small amount of marijuana can be a misdemeanor, while possession of larger quantities or more serious controlled substances can lead to felony charges with longer prison terms. Trafficking, which involves larger quantities, carries mandatory minimum sentences that increase based on the type and amount of the drug.

Theft Crimes

Theft charges, including petit theft, grand theft, and robbery, are frequent in Tampa. The severity of theft charges generally depends on the value of the property involved. 

Petit theft involves smaller amounts and is usually a misdemeanor, while grand theft, covering higher-value items, is a felony and carries a more significant prison sentence. Robbery, which involves taking property by force or intimidation, is treated more severely, especially if a weapon is involved, often resulting in lengthy prison terms.

Assault and Battery

Assault and battery are commonly charged but can often be misunderstood to individuals facing them. Assault is typically defined as a credible threat of harm, while battery involves actual physical contact or harm. 

The penalties for assault and battery can vary; simple assault may result in minor jail time, while simple battery can lead to up to a year in jail. When severe injury or a weapon is involved, the charge is classified as a felony and carries stricter penalties, often including several years in prison.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence charges include acts like assault, battery, and stalking within a household or family setting. These charges carry additional penalties if physical harm occurs, including mandatory jail time and intervention programs, if applicable. 

Convictions for domestic violence can also lead to civil restrictions, such as restraining orders, firearm prohibitions, and limitations on child custody or visitation, especially without an effective defense strategy from a defense lawyer in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm.

Navigating Criminal Charges with Legal Support from The Rickman Law Firm

Whether you are dealing with a misdemeanor or a felony, seeking legal representation from The Rickman Law Firm, the leading defense firm in Tampa, can provide you with the essential support, guidance, and protection of your rights.

If you or a loved one are in need of an experienced Tampa defense lawyer, there is no better option than The Rickman Law Firm. For a free case consultation, contact our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out a consultation form. 

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.