Successful Criminal Defense: Avoiding Felony Conviction in Florida

Successful Criminal Defense: Avoiding Felony Conviction in Florida

  • Avoid a Felony Conviction

Successful Criminal Defense: Avoiding Felony Conviction in Florida

At Stone & Capobianco, our criminal defense team recently secured a highly favorable outcome for a client facing serious felony charges in Florida.

In the case of State of Florida vs. C.A.J., the defendant was charged with:

  • Battery (Misdemeanor – 1st Degree)

  • Two Counts of Child Abuse – Intentional Act (Felony – 3rd Degree)

If convicted on all counts, our client faced a potential 11 years in prison, along with substantial fines and lasting damage to his personal and professional life.

The Defense Strategy

Understanding the severity of these charges, Attorney Jerome Stone developed a strong defense strategy, working diligently to protect our client’s rights. Through skilled negotiation with the prosecution, the defense team secured a plea agreement that significantly reduced the consequences.

The Plea Agreement Outcome

Instead of facing multiple convictions and possible incarceration, the client entered a nolo contendere plea to one count of Child Abuse – Intentional Act. Importantly, the court agreed to withhold adjudication, meaning the client avoided a formal felony conviction on his record.

Under the agreement, the client was sentenced to:

  • 36 months of probation (with early termination possible after 18 months if all conditions are met)

  • Substance abuse evaluation and compliance with any recommended treatment

This resolution allowed the client to:

  • Avoid prison time

  • Keep his current employment

  • Protect his future opportunities without the stigma of a felony conviction

Why This Case Matters

This case highlights the importance of having an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney when facing felony or misdemeanor charges. A conviction could have carried life-changing consequences, but through strategic advocacy and skilled negotiation, Stone & Capobianco achieved a result that balanced accountability with rehabilitation.

By avoiding the harshest penalties, the client now has the opportunity to move forward, remain employed, and work toward early termination of probation.

At Stone & Capobianco, we are committed to protecting the rights of individuals accused of crimes across the Treasure Coast. Whether you are facing charges for domestic violence, child abuse, assault, battery, DUI, or other criminal offenses, our defense attorneys are ready to fight for the best possible outcome.

📞 If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime in Florida, call us today at (772) 781-4357 for a confidential consultation.

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