DISCLAIMER: The results are specific to the facts and legal circumstances of each of the clients’ cases and should not be used to form an expectation that the same results could be obtained for other clients in similar matters without reference to the specific factual and legal circumstances of each client’s case.
A 15-year-old teen involved in a mob beating in Parkland, Florida, had felony battery charges reduced to a misdemeanor thanks to the strategic defense by South Florida attorney Susan Lawson. This allowed the teen to return to school and avoid a felony conviction.
A 15-year-old teen from Parkland, Florida, was involved in this case. The incident occurred at a park near a high school campus in Parkland, where the client was one of six teens arrested for assaulting a victim who suffered a severe skull injury. The client was initially charged with felony battery along with the other arrested teens, despite not being the main perpetrator. The case gained significant media attention due to the violent nature of the fight and the severity of the victim’s injuries.
The client was the last to be identified among the six attackers and had a minimal role, joining the altercation near its end and only throwing a punch or kick. This lack of substantial involvement was crucial in reducing the charges. The defense focused on the client’s positive character and minimal participation in the incident. Character references from parents, teachers, coaches, and family members highlighted the client’s respectful and kind nature, as well as their strong academic performance and involvement in high-level courses. The client also completed a 16-hour anger management class, demonstrating a commitment to personal improvement.
Thanks to Susan Lawson’s diligent efforts, the charges were reduced from felony battery to a misdemeanor. The client pleaded no contest, allowing them to return to school and continue their academic and extracurricular activities. The court imposed a sentence of 50 hours of community service and a 500-word essay, along with probation conditions requiring the client to stay away from the fight location and avoid contact with co-defendants. This outcome was a significant success, demonstrating Susan’s dedication and the effectiveness of the meticulously constructed mitigation package.
Rossen Law Firm