Florida Sentencing Guidelines
In an attempt to have uniform felony sentencing throughout the state of Florida, the legislature adopted a sentencing guideline. Oftentimes, the first thing a person who has been arrested for felony is worried about is whether he or she will end up in state prison. Depending on such things as the nature of the crime, your prior criminal history, and any injuries to the other party, you may be facing Florida state prison. If your score sheet totals the requisite number of points necessary, you could be sent to the Florida Department of Corrections.
Criminal Score Sheets
The score sheet and sentencing guidelines are very black and white. In other words, your crime fits somewhere into the grid. In Florida, felonies are broken into degrees, with third degree being the least serious. However, the degree of felony doesn’t tell the whole picture, as some third-degree felonies could score a prison sentence based on the level the legislature has determined.
More on Florida Sentencing Guidelines and Score Sheets
The Florida sentencing guidelines can be somewhat difficult to comprehend, as there are many what-ifs depending on your particular circumstances. The most important thing to consider is the end number of sentence points, as that will dictate whether you go to Florida state prison. If that number is greater than 44—and assuming the judge doesn’t find a reason to depart from that guideline number—then you will probably receive a state prison sentence.
To learn more about Florida’s sentencing guidelines or to schedule a free, confidential review of your case, contact the attorneys of The Law Place.