A conviction for a weapon or firearm offense can result in substantial prison time. A typical weapon or firearm offense includes: possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, carrying a concealed weapon or firearm without a permit, or improper exhibition of a firearm or dangerous weapon.
A convicted felon who possesses a firearm could serve a 3-year minimum mandatory prison sentence. If a judge believes the minimum mandatory sentence to be too harsh in your case, the judge cannot depart from the 3-year minimum mandatory. Only the elected State Attorney can waive the minimum mandatory sentence in your case. Florida Statute dictates other, more severe, minimum mandatory sentences for situations where a crime involves a firearm. The most common example is the 10-20-life statute. First, if a firearm is displayed during the commission of an enumerated offense in the statute, a 10-year minimum mandatory sentence applies. Second, if a firearm is discharged during the commission of an enumerated offense, the minimum sentence is 20 years. Lastly, if a firearm is discharged and causes great harm, the defendant could serve a minimum of 25 years to life in prison.
How We Can Help
With so much at stake, you need to speak with a weapons offense attorney that will help you understand what your rights are. An experienced attorney can look at whether law enforcement acted lawfully in your case, whether the correct sentencing scheme is applied, and how to mitigate such a serious offense. The Fletcher Law Practice is happy to provide you with a free consultation to discuss what your rights and options are during this difficult time. Call today.
