Criminal Law in St. Johns County
St. Johns County, Florida, is one of the fastest-growing counties in the state, encompassing the historic city of St. Augustine and a rapidly expanding suburban corridor south of Jacksonville. As the population grows, so does the need for experienced criminal defense representation across a wide range of offenses. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor charge or a serious felony, the consequences under Florida law can be life-altering, affecting your employment, housing, and personal freedom. A skilled criminal law attorney in St. Johns County can protect your rights, navigate the local court system, and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.
Courts Handling Criminal Law Cases in St. Johns County
Criminal law matters in St. Johns County are handled primarily by the St. Johns County Circuit Court, located at the St. Johns County Courthouse in St. Augustine, which presides over felony cases, serious misdemeanors, and appeals. Misdemeanor and lesser criminal matters are typically heard in the County Court division of the Seventh Judicial Circuit, which also sits at the St. Augustine courthouse. The St. Johns County Sheriff's Office and local municipal police departments, including the St. Augustine Police Department, initiate most arrests that proceed through these courts.
Common Criminal Law Situations in St. Johns County
Some of the most common criminal matters in St. Johns County involve DUI offenses, drug possession charges, theft and shoplifting, domestic violence, and traffic-related crimes, reflecting both the county's busy tourism corridor and its growing residential population. The proximity to Interstate 95 and US-1 also contributes to a significant number of drug trafficking stops and vehicle-related offenses handled by the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office. Assault, trespassing, and disorderly conduct charges are also frequently seen in and around the historic downtown St. Augustine area.
Penalties and Outcomes in Florida
Under Florida law, criminal penalties vary significantly based on the severity of the offense, with misdemeanors carrying up to one year in county jail and felonies potentially resulting in state prison sentences ranging from five years to life imprisonment. Florida also imposes mandatory minimum sentences for certain drug, firearm, and violent offenses under statutes such as the 10-20-Life law, leaving judges with limited discretion in those cases. Beyond incarceration, convicted individuals may face fines, probation, driver's license suspension, community service, court costs, and a permanent criminal record that can impact future employment and civil rights.
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Why Go To Court for Criminal Law in St. Johns County
Go To Court Lawyers connects residents of St. Johns County with experienced criminal defense attorneys who understand Florida law and the specific procedures of the Seventh Judicial Circuit. With free 24/7 legal information and a lawyer booking service coming soon, Go To Court is committed to making quality criminal defense representation accessible when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Florida?
In Florida, misdemeanors are less serious offenses divided into two degrees: first-degree misdemeanors carry penalties of up to one year in county jail and a $1,000 fine, while second-degree misdemeanors carry up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Felonies are more serious crimes categorized as third-degree, second-degree, or first-degree, with sentences ranging from up to five years to up to 30 years or life in state prison depending on the classification. The distinction is critical because a felony conviction in Florida also results in the loss of civil rights such as the right to vote and possess firearms.
Can a criminal charge be expunged from my record in Florida?
Florida law allows for the sealing or expungement of certain criminal records under Florida Statutes Section 943.0585 and 943.059, but eligibility is limited and depends on factors such as the nature of the offense and whether you have prior convictions or prior expungements. Generally, you may only seal or expunge one record in your lifetime, and certain serious offenses such as sexual battery, robbery, and domestic violence are not eligible. Consulting with a criminal law attorney in St. Johns County is essential to determine whether your specific charges qualify and to navigate the formal application process through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
What should I do if I am arrested in St. Johns County?
If you are arrested in St. Johns County, you should exercise your right to remain silent and clearly invoke your right to an attorney before answering any questions from law enforcement, as anything you say can be used against you in court. You will be taken to the St. Johns County jail for booking, and a first appearance hearing must be held within 24 hours of your arrest where a judge will address bail conditions. It is important to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible so they can review the charges, attend the first appearance if possible, and begin building a defense strategy on your behalf.
How does bail work in St. Johns County, Florida?
After an arrest in St. Johns County, a judge at the first appearance hearing will determine whether to set bail and at what amount, taking into account factors such as the severity of the offense, your criminal history, ties to the community, and whether you pose a flight risk or danger to the public. Florida law under Rule 3.131 of the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure presumes that most defendants are entitled to pretrial release on reasonable conditions, though certain serious offenses may result in no bail being set. If bail is granted, you may pay it directly or use a licensed bail bondsman who typically charges a non-refundable fee of around 10 percent of the total bail amount.
What are the penalties for a DUI conviction in Florida?
A first-time DUI conviction in Florida can result in fines between $500 and $1,000, up to six months in jail, probation, 50 hours of community service, mandatory attendance at a DUI school, and a driver's license revocation of 180 days to one year. Penalties increase significantly for subsequent offenses or if aggravating factors are present, such as a blood alcohol level of 0.15 or higher, the presence of a minor in the vehicle, or if the DUI caused property damage or injury. Florida also requires the installation of an ignition interlock device for repeat offenders or those with an elevated BAC, and a DUI conviction cannot be expunged or sealed under Florida law.