Fort Myers Felony Attorney

Types of Felony Charges We Handle in Fort Myers

Many crimes defined as felonies in Florida involve weapons or violence; however, a wide range of non-violent offenses can also be charged as felonies. No matter what felony charge you’re facing, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney in Fort Myers who can challenge the prosecution’s claims and advocate for available defense options is crucial to protecting your rights. Our dedicated legal team provides guidance throughout every step of the criminal justice process.

To find out how our firm may be able to help you, contact our offices today.

Felony Classifications & Charges

Our team at Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law has extensive experience defending clients against a broad spectrum of felony charges in Fort Myers and across Lee County. Florida law recognizes multiple degrees of felonies, including third-degree, second-degree, first-degree, life, and capital felonies, each with its own set of penalties and legal complexities. As felony criminal defense attorneys in Fort Myers, we regularly represent individuals facing felony allegations involving violent crimes, drug trafficking or distribution, burglary, theft, aggravated assault, domestic-related felonies, white-collar offenses, and felony DUI cases. We thoroughly assess each case, identifying potential procedural errors, issues with law enforcement processes, or constitutional violations. Because we have deep familiarity with Lee County criminal courts and court procedures, we craft strategic defenses tailored to every case and client. Whether the allegations arise from the Fort Myers Police Department or Lee County Sheriff’s Office, we design defense strategies to address the particular challenges presented by your situation.

Understanding the severity and classification of your felony charge is the foundation for building a strong defense. Each degree comes with its own sentencing guidelines and mandatory penalties under Florida Statutes Chapters 775 and 921. For instance, a third-degree felony conviction, such as certain theft or drug possession charges, can carry up to five years in state prison, significant fines, and loss of basic civil rights. More serious offenses, like first-degree felonies including armed robbery or aggravated battery, may result in decades of incarceration or even life sentences, and certain offenses can carry the risk of the most severe sentence. Our Fort Myers felony defense lawyers provide clear, honest advice about each charge, the applicable penalties under Florida law, and practical guidance on available defense options. Our familiarity with the judges and prosecutors in the Twentieth Judicial Circuit helps us explain the process and prepare you to make informed decisions about your future in Lee County.

• Katheryn Calvo is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by The Florida Bar
• Highly experienced in Criminal Trial Law
• Former prosecutors committed to defending your rights
• More than 40 years of combined legal experience
• Track record of case dismissals and charge reductions

Our Approach to Felony Defense

At Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, we know that selecting the right felony criminal defense attorney in Fort Myers is a critical decision. Our team uses former-prosecutor experience to evaluate how the State may build its case and to examine the evidence and procedures involved. We emphasize open communication, providing clear explanations and updates during every phase of your case. By providing legal strategies matched to your unique situation, we deliver the individualized attention expected from a boutique law firm while advocating for your interests. We are dedicated to advocating for our clients in Fort Myers, Lee County, and nearby communities based on the facts and law.

Without a skilled felony defense lawyer in Fort Myers advocating for you, a felony conviction can severely limit your opportunities, restrict future employment, make it challenging to secure student loans, and result in long-term difficulties finding housing or restoring your reputation.

Have you been arrested and charged with a felony? Call Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law today at (800) 614-5138 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our felony criminal defense lawyers in Fort Myers.

What to Expect from the Felony Criminal Process in Fort Myers

The felony criminal process in Lee County and Fort Myers usually begins with an arrest, followed by a first appearance before a judge. Under Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.130, an arrested person generally must be brought before a judge within 24 hours. At this critical hearing, the charge and your rights are addressed, and the judge may consider bond and conditions of release. The State Attorney’s Office reviews the details of an arrest and determines whether to formally file felony charges. This phase may include pretrial motions, the exchange of evidence (discovery), and plea negotiations. The sequence and timing depend on the allegations, evidence, and court schedule.

Throughout the process, with Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, we provide proactive communication about each stage. Our familiarity with Fort Myers and Lee County court procedures helps us explain how hearings, plea offers, and trial dates may affect the legal issues in your case.

Pretrial Strategy & Local Legal Procedures

Pretrial procedures in Fort Myers felony cases can include bail hearings, suppression hearings, and negotiation meetings with the State Attorney’s Office. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer in Fort Myers can evaluate the need to file legal motions, such as motions to suppress evidence if police violated your rights during arrest, as well as develop arguments for available defense options. Our attorneys at Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law use our former-prosecutor experience to identify procedural weaknesses and evaluate the State’s approach during negotiations. In Lee County, timelines can be tight, and failing to address early deadlines could mean losing important opportunities to strengthen your defense.

Because the local court system in Fort Myers has distinct procedures, working with attorneys who regularly practice in Lee County can help you avoid missteps and identify strategic opportunities. We guide our clients on what to expect at every hearing, the role of each party involved, and how decisions are made regarding plea offers and trial dates. When you entrust your case to our defense team, we are committed to protecting your rights and handling your case diligently and professionally from beginning to end.

Understanding the Consequences of Felony Convictions

Being charged with a felony crime in Fort Myers is an extraordinarily serious matter, with consequences that can last a lifetime. It is vital to understand the impact of a felony conviction under Florida law and how it can affect every aspect of your life.

In addition to penalties imposed by the state, a felony conviction may also affect immigration matters and family stability, depending on the offense, disposition, and applicable law.

Some of the consequences of a felony conviction include the following:

• Lengthy prison sentences: Felony convictions are punished more harshly than misdemeanors. Depending on the charge, a conviction could mean years, decades, or even life in prison.
• Loss of civil rights: Felony convictions may affect voting rights, the right to run for public office, and firearm possession.
• Difficulty finding employment: Having a felony record can make it much harder to find work, as many employers conduct background screening.
• Housing and rental limitations: A felony record can create obstacles when applying for housing or rental properties.
• Professional licensing restrictions: Felony convictions may cause denial or revocation of required licenses for many occupations in Florida, restricting career prospects.

At Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, our experienced Fort Myers felony criminal defense attorneys understand the consequences you may face. We are committed to providing an aggressive, client-focused defense to help protect your rights and pursue available legal options under Florida law.

Contact our Fort Myers felony defense lawyers today to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your legal options for moving forward.

Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Cases in Fort Myers

How Long Does a Felony Case Typically Take in Fort Myers?

The duration of a felony case in Fort Myers depends on the complexity of the charges, the amount of evidence, and the current court schedule. Most felony cases proceed through arraignment and pretrial negotiations over several weeks or months. If a plea agreement is reached, the case can close more quickly; however, cases involving complicated facts or active litigation may require a lengthier timeline before proceeding to trial, sometimes taking several months or longer. Choosing a felony criminal defense lawyer in Fort Myers who is familiar with the court’s practices can help you understand the process and protect your interests throughout the case.

What Should I Expect at My First Court Appearance After a Felony Arrest in Lee County?

If you have not retained a felony defense attorney in Fort Myers, the court may appoint a public defender. To protect your interests, we recommend contacting Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law as soon as possible so we can evaluate your matter, discuss bond concerns, and explain your legal rights. The details of your first appearance and any release conditions depend on the circumstances of your case.

Can Felony Charges Be Dropped or Reduced in Fort Myers, FL?

Felony charges in Fort Myers can sometimes be dropped or reduced, but outcomes depend on your individual circumstances. Dismissals or reductions may occur due to insufficient evidence, constitutional violations, procedural errors by law enforcement, plea negotiations, or mitigating circumstances. At Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, our felony criminal defense lawyers in Fort Myers use our background as former prosecutors to evaluate the state’s case, identify issues for negotiation, and advise clients about available options with the State Attorney’s Office. We are committed to exploring the legal options that may apply to your case.