Law enforcement in Florida takes attempts to flee and elude police extremely seriously. Many times, the prosecution will attempt to enhance the charges against defendants in an attempt to either subject him or her to more significant penalties or use it as leverage to pressure the defendant into accepting a plea deal.
With the assistance of your St. Petersburg traffic crimes defense attorney, you will be in a position to make craft a strong defense, and make informed decisions throughout the legal process.
St. Petersburg Defense Lawyer for Fleeing and Eluding
If you have been arrested for fleeing and eluding in Pinellas County, Clearwater, Pinellas Park, Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, or the surrounding areas, it is vital that you consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Melinda Morris is a tactical defense attorney who will thoroughly review the facts of your case, and present evidence in a way that is most favorable to you.
In order to give yourself the best chance at maintaining your freedom, call Morris Law Firm, P.A. today at (727) 592-5885Â to schedule a free consultation on your fleeing and eluding charges.
Information on Fleeing and Eluding
- Classifications of Fleeing and Eluding
- Penalties for Fleeing and Eluding
- Quality Defense Attorney for Fleeing and Eluding in Pinellas County
Classifications of Fleeing and Eluding
Section 316.1935 of the Florida Statutes states that it is illegal for an individual to operate or continue to operate a motor vehicle upon being ordered to stop by a legitimate law enforcement official. Individuals who violate this law can be charged with a third-degree felony.
An individual can be charged with aggravated fleeing and eluding if he or she flees or eludes an officer while driving at high speeds with a complete disregard for the safety of others. Under these circumstances, this offense is considered a second-degree felony.
However, if the alleged offender causes serious injury or property damage to another as a result of the offense, he or she can face first-degree felony charges.
Penalties for Fleeing and Eluding
In order for an individual to be convicted of fleeing or eluding a police officer, the prosecution must be able to prove that defendant operated the vehicle with the intentions of fleeing or eluding, while the police officer had his or her sirens and lights activated.
- If an individual is convicted of fleeing or eluding an officer, he or she can face the following penalties:
- A third-degree felony charge for fleeing and eluding is punishable by up to five years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
- A second-degree felony charge for fleeing and eluding can result in up to a 15-year prison sentence, and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.
- A first-degree felony charge for fleeing and eluding can lead to a prison sentence of 30 years to life, and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
Once arrested for this offense, it is vital that you seek legal counsel immediately. With the potential of spending significant time behind bars, the sooner you align yourself with a qualified defense lawyer, the better chance you will have at developing a strategy that could help you maintain your freedom.
Quality Defense Attorney for Fleeing and Eluding in Pinellas County
If you are facing charges for allegedly fleeing and eluding a police officer in Pinellas County, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Manatee County, Sarasota County or Pasco County, contact Morris Law Firm, P.A..
Melinda Morris of is a knowledgeable and experienced traffic crimes defense attorney who will fight for you. Call Morris Law Firm, P.A. today at (727) 592-5885Â to set up a consultation about your case.
