Why Choose Rossen Law Firm
When facing weapons charges in Fort Lauderdale, you need a defense team with the experience, dedication, and track record of success that sets them apart from the rest. With a team led by former prosecutor Adam Rossen, our Fort Lauderdale weapons crimes attorneys in bring invaluable insights into how the prosecution thinks and operates, allowing us to craft robust defense strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
Our firm has a proven history of achieving positive outcomes in complex weapons cases. We understand that every case is different and requires a personalized approach.
Our attorneys take the time to listen, understand, and build a defense that aims to mitigate the charges or achieve an acquittal. We know what’s at stake for our clients, and our commitment to their defense is unwavering.
Conveniently located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, our office is just a few blocks from Chase Stadium and easily accessible by taking I-95. The Rossen Law Firm is proud of its accolades, including numerous awards for legal excellence and hundreds of five-star client reviews.
Weapons Crimes Penalties and Damages
Economic Consequences
- Fines and Court Fees: Convictions can result in substantial fines, which may vary depending on the severity of the offense. Court fees add additional financial burdens.
- Legal Costs: Retaining skilled legal representation is essential, but it also adds to the financial strain. However, a good lawyer can potentially reduce long-term costs by achieving favorable outcomes.
Non-Economic Impacts
- Emotional Distress: The stress and anxiety associated with criminal charges can take a toll on your mental health, affecting personal and family relationships.
- Reputational Damage: Being charged with a weapons crime can damage your reputation in the community, impacting your social standing and relationships with friends and family.
Punitive Measures
- Imprisonment: Weapons crimes often carry the possibility of jail or prison time, which can vary from months to years depending on the charge and circumstances.
- Probation: In some cases, probation may be an alternative to incarceration, but it comes with strict conditions that must be adhered to avoid further legal issues.
Additional Consequences
- Career Impact: A weapons crime conviction can hinder job prospects and lead to job loss, especially in fields requiring background checks or professional licenses.
- Loss of Civil Rights: Convictions can lead to the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote or possess firearms in the future.
Fort Lauderdale Weapons Crimes Statistics
Weapons Crime Statistics
- Increase in Violent Crime: According to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department’s report, violent crime in Fort Lauderdale has increased in recent years. In the first three months of one recent year, individuals reported 297 violent crimes, representing an 8% increase from 275 in the same period the previous year.
- High Crime Rates: According to Neighborhood Scout, Fort Lauderdale’s crime rate is higher than the national average. The overall crime rate is 41 per 1,000 residents, with violent crime occurring at a rate of 4 per 1,000 inhabitants.
- Likelihood of Becoming a Victim: Residents of Fort Lauderdale have a 1 in 238 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime, underscoring the prevalence of such offenses in the area.
- Firearm Usage in Crimes: According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Florida-wide statistics reveal that firearms were used in 74% of murders, 36% of robberies, and more than one-quarter of assaults. The state has seen a significant increase in gun-related homicides over the past two decades, with firearms now used in 75% of all homicides, up from 56% in 2000.
Crime Hotspots
- Flagler Village: This neighborhood is known for having a higher concentration of violent crimes, including robberies and assaults, often linked to nightlife activities.
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale: The downtown area, while bustling with business and tourism, has reported significant incidents of weapons-related offenses, particularly in areas with high foot traffic.
- Sistrunk Boulevard: Known for its historical significance, this area faces challenges with crime, including illegal firearm possession and use.
- Central Beach: As a major tourist destination, this area experiences elevated crime rates, including thefts and assaults involving weapons.
How We Can Help
Given these alarming statistics on weapons and violent crimes in Fort Lauderdale and Florida, the legal landscape is particularly treacherous for those facing weapons charges.
Law enforcement and prosecutors are under intense pressure to secure convictions, often leading to aggressive tactics and severe sentencing recommendations.
With so much at stake, attempting to face weapons charges alone in this charged legal atmosphere could be disastrous. A knowledgeable attorney by your side is your best defense against becoming another statistic in Fort Lauderdale’s crime data.
Our commitment to your case includes:
- Personalized Consultation: We start with a comprehensive consultation to understand the specifics of your case and provide a tailored legal strategy.
- Open Communication: We maintain transparent communication, ensuring you are informed and empowered to make decisions throughout the process.
- Resource Access: We connect you with expert witnesses and investigators to support your defense.
- Emotional Support: We offer compassionate guidance, recognizing the emotional toll that legal challenges can have on you and your loved ones.
- Vigorous Representation: We are committed to advocating for your rights in and out of the courtroom, leveraging our experience to pursue the best possible outcome.
Defense Strategies We Could Use
We employ defense strategies tailored to the specifics of your weapons charge. Here are some of the key strategies we may employ in your defense:
Challenging the Evidence
- Questioning Search and Seizure: We scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the evidence collection, ensuring that no one violates your Fourth Amendment rights against unlawful search and seizure. If individuals gained evidence against you improperly, we will file motions to suppress it, potentially weakening the prosecution’s case.
- Disputing Chain of Custody: Evidence must be handled properly from the time of collection to presentation in court. We examine the chain of custody to identify any lapses or inconsistencies that might render the evidence unreliable.
- Analyzing Forensic Evidence: We employ experts to review forensic analyses related to your case, using sound methodologies and valid conclusions.
Proving Lawful Possession
- Licensing and Permits: We gather documentation proving that you had the appropriate licenses or permits to possess the weapon in question. You need this in cases where possession is the central issue.
- Demonstrating Ownership: In some cases, proving that the weapon did not belong to you can be a valid defense. We collect and present evidence showing the weapon belonged to another party.
Disputing Intent
- Lack of Criminal Intent: Many weapons charges require the prosecution to prove intent. We work to demonstrate that your actions were accidental or that there was no intent to commit a crime, potentially leading to a reduction or dismissal of charges.
- Duress or Necessity: In certain situations, we may argue that your actions happened under duress or necessity. For instance, if you possessed a weapon for self-defense in a threatening situation, we can present evidence to support this claim.
Negotiating Plea Deals
- Reducing Charges: When appropriate, we negotiate with prosecutors to have charges reduced or dismissed, focusing on the case’s strengths and weaknesses to achieve a more favorable outcome.
- Alternative Sentencing: In some cases, we advocate for alternative sentencing options, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs, that can minimize the long-term impact on your life.
Leveraging Constitutional Defenses
- Second Amendment Rights: We examine whether your right to bear arms under the Second Amendment was unjustly infringed upon, potentially providing a constitutional defense to the charges.
- Self-Defense: In cases involving a weapon, we explore whether self-defense laws apply, gathering evidence and witness testimony to support your claim that you acted to protect yourself or others.
What to Do After Being Charged With a Weapons Crime
Facing weapons charges can be a daunting experience, and your actions immediately following an arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are some essential steps to take that can help strengthen your defense:
- Preserve Evidence: Collect and safeguard any evidence related to your case, such as receipts, emails, and photos.
- Avoid Making Statements: Refrain from speaking to law enforcement without an attorney present. They will take anything you say and use it against you. Exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal representation.
- Limit Social Media Activity: Avoid posting about your case or anything unrelated to the incident on social media. Posts can be used as evidence and may inadvertently harm your case. Opposing parties will use anything to paint you in a negative light.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your interactions with law enforcement and any witnesses. Write down names, badge numbers, and contact information for future reference.
- Seek Legal Advice Immediately: Contact the Rossen Law Firm as soon as possible to discuss your case. Early intervention by an experienced attorney can significantly improve the outcome of your case.
- Follow Legal Advice: Listen to your attorney’s guidance and follow their recommendations closely. They have the experience to navigate the legal system and protect your rights.
Secure Your Future with Rossen Law Firm
Facing weapons charges can be one of the most stressful experiences in life, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
At Rossen Law Firm, we bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and a personalized approach to every case we handle. Our team of skilled Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorneys is committed to protecting your rights and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
Don’t wait—contact Rossen Law Firm today at (754) 206-6200 for a free strategy session. Let us fight for your freedom and future.
Rossen Law Firm – Fort Lauderdale Office
6400 N Andrews Ave #510
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Phone: (754) 206-6200
