Mitigating factors are circumstances or factors that can reduce the severity of a criminal offense and the corresponding penalties that a defendant may face. In Florida criminal law, several mitigating factors can be taken into account to reduce the sentence or charges against a defendant.
How Mitigating Factors Are Used In Sentencing
In Florida, judges are required to consider mitigating factors when imposing a sentence. If a judge determines that mitigating factors exist, they may impose a sentence that is below the standard sentencing range for the offense. For example, if a defendant is convicted of a third-degree felony that carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison but the judge finds that there are mitigating factors present, they may impose a sentence of probation instead of prison time.
Most Common Mitigating Factors
- Lack of prior criminal record
- Age (if the defendant is juvenile or elderly)
- Mental health (if the defendant has a diagnosed mental illness)
- Cooperation with law enforcement
- Remorse for the offense
- An offense committed in the heat of passion or under extreme duress
- Self-defense
- Efforts to make restitution or address underlying causes of criminal behavior
- Presence of addiction or substance abuse issues
- Positive contributions to the community or society
- Good character references
- Evidence of rehabilitation or reform
- Circumstances surrounding the offense (such as the involvement of others or the defendant’s intent)
- Involvement in criminal activity due to external pressures or coercion (such as threats or blackmail)
Mitigating factors can vary based on the specific circumstances of a case, and each case is evaluated on an individual basis.
The circumstances of the offense itself may also be a mitigating factor. For example, if the crime was committed in the heat of passion or under extreme duress, the defendant’s culpability may be reduced. Mitigating factors can also include the defendant’s efforts to make restitution or take steps to address the underlying causes of their criminal behavior.
It is important to note that while mitigating factors can be taken into consideration under Florida law, they do not necessarily guarantee a reduction in charges or sentence. The severity of the crime and the defendant’s level of culpability will still be taken into account. However, presenting strong mitigating factors can help a defendant receive a more favorable outcome in their case.
The Role Of The Defense Attorney In Presenting Mitigating Factors
Defense attorneys have a crucial role to play in presenting mitigating factors to the court. A skilled defense attorney will investigate the circumstances surrounding the offense, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to support the defendant’s case. They will also work with the defendant to develop a strategy for presenting mitigating factors in court.
If you find yourself facing any criminal or family law charges, you need a professional attorney on your side. Russell Spatz, of the Spatz Law Firm, PL, has decades of experience handling serious criminal and family law cases. Contact him at 305-442-0200 to discuss your case.
Sources
https://www.justia.com/criminal/aggravating-mitigating-factors/
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/mitigating-circumstances-sentencing.html