Felony Attorney in Bradenton

Your Trusted Team for Felony Criminal Defense in Bradenton

Facing a felony charge in Bradenton can impact every aspect of your life. We help protect your rights, freedom, and future with responsive guidance and local insight. At Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA, our criminal defense attorneys provide support and direction at each stage of the criminal process.

Whether this is your first interaction with the criminal courts or you are familiar with legal proceedings in Florida, we offer guidance that fits your experience. We use our background and knowledge of local procedures to simplify every phase, so you always know what to expect and how to participate in your defense.

If you are facing a felony charge, call a dedicated felony attorney in Bradenton at the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA. Our attorney is a former prosecutor, and we offer free consultations and 24/7 availability. Call (941) 541-5335 or contact us online now.

Understanding Felony Classifications in Florida

Florida law organizes felonies into categories based on the severity of the potential punishment. Understanding the classification of your charge is the first step in assessing the risk and building a defense strategy.

Florida Statutes § 775.082 and § 775.083 outline the maximum penalties for each felony degree:

• Capital Felonies: Reserved for crimes like first-degree murder, these are punishable by death or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
• Life Felonies: Punishable by imprisonment for life and up to a $15,000 fine.
• First-Degree Felonies: Punishable by up to 30 years in state prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
• Second-Degree Felonies: Punishable by up to 15 years in state prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
• Third-Degree Felonies: Punishable by up to 5 years in state prison and up to a $5,000 fine.

A competent Bradenton felony defense lawyer understands that the potential penalty is often determined by aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon or the victim's age, which can reclassify a crime to a higher degree.

Key Areas of Focus in Felony Defense

Every successful defense against a felony charge in Manatee County must be tailored to the specific type of crime. We focus our investigation on the elements the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

• Violent Felonies (e.g., Aggravated Battery, Robbery): The defense centers on intent, the credibility of the victim, and the use of justified force (self-defense). We analyze medical records and forensic evidence to dispute the extent of the injury or the defendant's role.
• Drug Felonies (e.g., Trafficking, Possession with Intent): The focus is on challenging actual or constructive possession and the legality of the police procedure. We aggressively file motions to suppress evidence if the search or seizure violated the Fourth Amendment. We also challenge the State's ability to prove the intent to sell versus simple personal use.
• White-Collar Felonies (e.g., Grand Theft, Fraud): These cases often require a deep dive into voluminous financial records. The defense hinges on disproving criminal intent and demonstrating that any missteps were due to a mistake, poor accounting, or lack of knowledge, rather than a deliberate scheme to defraud.
• Sex Felonies (e.g., Sexual Battery, Lewd Conduct): These cases require the utmost care. We challenge the memory or perception of the accuser, analyze forensic evidence, and argue lack of consent or mistaken identity, while fully understanding the severe penalties and registration requirements that follow a conviction.

The Lasting Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction

The impact of being found guilty of a felony in Bradenton is permanent and extends far beyond the prison walls. We fight to protect your record because we know what a conviction truly costs.

• Permanent Loss of Civil Rights: A felony conviction in Florida results in the permanent loss of your right to vote and your right to serve on a jury.
• Firearm Prohibition: You are permanently prohibited under state and federal law from owning or possessing any firearm or ammunition. This is a non-negotiable consequence for all felonies.
• Professional and Employment Barriers: A felony record severely limits employment opportunities, often disqualifying you from professional licensing, public sector jobs, and positions requiring security clearances.
• Immigration Status: A felony is classified as an aggravated felony for non-citizens, leading to mandatory detention and deportation proceedings.
• Loss of Educational and Housing Opportunities: Many federal programs, including student financial aid and public housing assistance, are denied to individuals with felony convictions.

We are acutely aware of these consequences and build a defense aimed at securing an acquittal, a dismissal, or a negotiated plea that avoids a formal felony adjudication.

Why Choose Our Felony Lawyer in Bradenton

We believe that a strong defense starts with understanding your story and the details surrounding your case. Every client receives personal attention—no case is routine to us. Our in-depth knowledge of Bradenton’s courts and the Manatee County justice system allows us to spot important details and develop precise defense strategies. 

Attorney Reisinger’s experience as a former prosecutor in this area gives us insight into what matters to the other side and how they might approach your case. Using this knowledge, we identify strengths in your circumstances and challenge the prosecution’s version of events, always working to secure the best possible result in court or through negotiations.

Our felony lawyers in Bradenton can support you during key phases such as:

• Listening to your account – We learn the full story firsthand to build a comprehensive defense plan.
• Conducting a thorough investigation – We review police conduct, examine evidence, and explore possible rights violations or mistakes.
• Explaining charges, penalties, and options – We clarify Florida’s felony laws and what potential outcomes mean for you, empowering your decision-making.
• Negotiating with prosecutors – When appropriate, we pursue plea reductions or alternatives to harsh penalties whenever the situation allows.
• Preparing your defense for trial – If your best path is a courtroom defense, our team knows how to present your case persuasively in the Manatee County courts.

Throughout each phase, we keep you updated so you can make choices that serve your future.

Our approach allows for open communication at every stage, giving you the facts and the confidence to move forward. Felony cases in the Bradenton area often involve strict filing deadlines and several procedural steps, both unique to the Twelfth Judicial Circuit. We act promptly and stay connected so you avoid unnecessary delays and confusion, helping ease your stress and giving you reassurance about your next move.

How Our Team Supports You Through the Felony Process

Facing a felony case often creates stress and uncertainty, especially as you navigate a system with strict rules and high stakes. We provide personal service and honest communication to help you through each decision. Our process includes:

• Clear, ongoing communication – We explain legal language in simple terms and walk you through each next step.
• Respect for your goals and values – We treat you like a person, not a file number.
• Customized defense strategies – We tailor our work to the unique circumstances of your case, considering both the facts and your life situation.
• Ongoing support – We remain available through every court date, hearing, and development—always just a call or email away.

Our clients rely on our attention to detail, honest feedback, and strong advocacy during have some of their most difficult moments.

We recognize that every client comes from a different background. By using clear language, making meetings flexible, and always picking up the phone or responding quickly, we keep you updated and involved. You can expect straightforward answers and practical support, which helps you stay focused and make the right choices at every phase of your Bradenton felony case.

Contact a Felony Attorney in Bradenton Today

If you face a felony charge, the decisions you make now affect every part of your future. Connect with Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA to discuss your options and get clear, honest answers that fit your unique circumstances. We provide personal attention and reliable communication, so you understand your rights and make informed choices at every step. 

Call (941) 541-5335 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation. Let our felony lawyers in Bradenton help you move forward with a legal plan built for your needs.