Nestled in the heart of central Palm Beach County, Wellington is the most populous village in the state of Florida. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Wellington had a population of 61,485 as of 2014, compared to 4,622 in 1980. Between 2000 and 2010, the population rose by nearly 50 percent, while the number of households increased from 12,938 to 22,685. As of 2015, the median household income in Wellington was slightly higher than $77,000.
The village is well-known for its vibrant equestrian community — Wellington’s Winter Equestrian Festival is one of the longest-running equestrian competitions in the world. Wellington is an attractive place to live with many public parks available for recreational activities, and the village has a crime rate lower than the national average. Nonetheless, criminal offenses are taken very seriously in Palm Beach County. If you are being investigated or facing criminal charges in Wellington, it pays to have aggressive legal representation.
Conveniently located in West Palm Beach, Herman Law, P.A. is a premier criminal defense law firm serving clients in Wellington and the surrounding areas. Backed by a proven history of successfully trying criminal cases, we have the knowledge and skill to protect your freedom and your rights. We understand that being arrested and accused of a crime is a frightening and humiliating experience. The potential of prison time and lasting damage to your reputation is daunting. Regardless of the charges you are facing, we will leverage our skills and resources to vigorously defend you.
Wellington Criminal Defense
At Herman Law, P.A. we believe that anyone facing criminal charges is entitled to the presumption of innocence. We start building a solid defense from the ground up by gathering information, identifying witnesses, seeking out exculpatory evidence, and developing alternative theories of the crime. When it comes to the courtroom, our trial attorneys are highly adept at asserting viable defenses and making convincing oral arguments.
Our legal team routinely handles a wide variety of criminal charges, such as:
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) — In Wellington, you can be convicted of DUI for operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or higher. The penalties for a first DUI offense include fines, a license revocation, and potential jail time while multiple DUI offenses carry more severe penalties. Our attorneys will question whether law enforcement had reasonable cause to stop you, challenge the results of a breathalyzer or chemical test of your blood alcohol level, or ask the court to set aside field sobriety tests and other evidence.
Sexual Battery — Sex crimes are particularly heinous offenses that are vigorously prosecuted in Wellington and throughout the state of Florida. A conviction for sexual battery will result in a lengthy prison sentence, heavy fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender, while a mere accusation of rape can permanently tarnish your reputation. The best way to protect your rights, your freedom, and your good name is to consult Herman Law, P.A.
Aggravated Assault — Assault, which involves an intentional threat to commit violence toward someone or placing the victim in fear of imminent harm, becomes aggravated assault when the defendant (1) uses a deadly weapon (e.g. a gun, knife, automobile) during the commission of the crime, or (2) intends to commit another felony or serious crime. Considered a third-degree felony, a conviction for aggravated assault in Wellington can result in a 5-year prison sentence, fines and probation.
Domestic Violence — Although typically associated with married couples, domestic violence is an act or threat of violence against any person with whom the accused has or had a close relationship, such as a current or former spouse, parent, child, romantic partner, or anyone residing in the same household. Domestic violence in Wellington can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, and a conviction can result in imprisonment, fines, probation, a permanent restraining order, and mandatory enrollment in a domestic violence treatment program. In addition, you may also lose your right to own or possess a weapon and even be denied visitation rights with your children.
Drug Crimes — The possession, manufacture, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances is a violation of state and federal laws. While possessing small amounts of marijuana in Wellington may only result in a civil fine, a conviction for a serious drug crime will land you in prison. While prosecutors are known for taking a “tough on crime stance” in drug crimes cases, the team at Herman Law, P.A. knows how to level the playing field and protect your freedom.
Gun Crimes — While Florida has a rich tradition of gun ownership and the right to bear arms is codified in the state constitution, gun laws are strictly enforced in Wellington. Whether you have been charged with unlawfully possessing a gun, a concealed carry violation, discharging a firearm unlawfully, or another gun crime, it takes a highly skilled criminal defense attorney to protect your rights.
Why You Need a Wellington Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with a crime in Wellington, you may have many concerns. Will I go to prison? Will I lose my job? What will my friends, neighbors and colleagues say? Given the prevalence of social media, you may be found guilty in the court of public opinion even before your case is decided. With so much at stake, the best decision you can make is to enlist the services of Herman Law, P.A.
When you become our client, we will fully explain all of your rights and help you navigate the criminal justice system. Our legal team is fluent in the Florida Criminal Code, the related sentencing guidelines, and the rules of procedure in the criminal courts. We have insight into the tactics prosecutors often use to gain convictions and know how to utilize the most effective defense strategies. No matter what, our team will stand by you every step of the way, fighting to protect your rights and your reputation. Please contact our office today for a free evaluation of your case.