Felony Defense Lawyer
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Hire an Experienced Felony Lawyer in Florida Kevin has been involved with thousands of cases in Florida.


Kevin has handled thousands of felony charge cases in Palm Beach County and the local court systems. Most of all, he knows how to defend you against Felony charges successfully.

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Former Prosecutor Kevin Peterford, Felony Lawyer Palm Beach County

Felony Defense If you are facing felony criminal charges in Florida, you need a talented lawyer on your side.

Crimes are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies, the latter having much harsher sentences. Misdemeanors are milder crimes, such as shoplifting or disorderly conduct, while felonies include murder, violent assault, and burglary.

If you’ve been charged with a felony in Palm Beach County, you need solid representation from an experienced felony lawyer. Kevin Peterford can help fight your case, protect your rights, and ensure the best outcome for you.

Felony Vs. Misdemeanor

Misdemeanor charges carry penalties such as fines, house arrest, or probation. While the exact sentencing will depend on the circumstances, misdemeanor crimes rarely carry lifetime consequences.

Felony crimes may carry a minimum prison sentence and have far-reaching lifetime consequences. In addition to the prison time, hefty fines, and other legal consequences, felons also lose their right to:

  • Posses or carry a firearm
  • Vote or hold public office
  • Federal and state benefits

A felony DUI charge in Palm Beach County carries hefty fines and much longer jail sentences.

More Than Legal Consequences

Felons also have difficulty gaining future employment, applying for loans, and traveling. A felony charge is serious, and should not be taken lightly. If you’ve been accused of a felony, finding a felony lawyer in Florida is an essential step in fighting your case. According to the law, you are innocent until proven guilty. Don’t take a chance—defend yourself with assistance from Kevin Peterford, an experienced felony defense lawyer in Palm Beach County.

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DUI and Criminal Defense Attorney Near Palm Beach County

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Kevin Peterford is a former prosecutor and has been on the other side of the courtroom. He has handled hundreds of DUI cases and tried over 30 trials to verdict.

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Peterford Law Top-Rated Felony Defense Lawyer in Palm Beach County

Peterford Law Top Google-Rated DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney in Palm Beach County

Kevin Peterford is a former prosecutor and has been on the other side of the courtroom. He has handled hundreds of criminal cases and tried over 25 trials to verdict. With his extensive experience in criminal and DUI prosecution, Kevin presents a winning argument every time.

0+ Jury Trials

Kevin has tried over 25 cases to verdict. In 2018 he was recognized for handling the most trials in Palm Beach County.

0+ Years Former Prosecutor

Extensive knowledge of the court system which helps provide clients with the best defense possible.

0+ Cases Handled

As a former prosecutor and now defense attorney, Kevin has been involved with hundreds of cases in Florida.

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 Felony Defense Lawyer Near You in Palm Beach County, Peterford Law

Kevin Peterford

If you’ve been charged with a felony in Florida, you need solid representation from an experienced felony lawyer. Kevin Peterford can help fight your case, protect your rights, and ensure the best outcome for you.

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Degrees of Felonies in Florida


Just like misdemeanor crimes have degrees, so do felonies—the higher the degree, the tougher the sentence.

  • Posses or carry a firearm
  • Vote or hold public office
  • Federal and state benefits

Common third-degree felony crimes include grand theft (theft where the value of the stolen property is more than $750, but less than $20,000), aggravated assault, a third DUI, and violent resistance of arrest.

  • Up to fifteen years in prison
  • $10,000 in fines
  • Up to fifteen years of probation

Common second-degree felony crimes include aggravated battery, DUI manslaughter, sale of marijuana to a minor, and presence of a firearm while committing another crime.

  • Up to 30 years in prison
  • $10,000 in fines

Common first-degree felony crimes include aggravated battery of a police officer, child abuse, carjacking, home invasion, and burglary with aggravated assault.

  • Up to life in prison
  • $15,000 in fines

Common life felony crimes include kidnapping, accomplice to murder, and robbery with a firearm or other deadly weapon.

Trafficking in certain controlled substances are felonies that can carry mandatory minimum prison sentences and fines of up to $500,000.

  • Life in prison, without parole
  • Possible death penalty

Common capital felony crimes include capital dug trafficking, first-degree murder, armed kidnapping, and sexual battery of a victim 12 years or younger.


Strategies of Felony Criminal Defense

Being convicted of a felony can result in consequences that last a lifetime, on top of jail time and hefty fines. Working with a trustworthy and experienced felony lawyer is the best action you can take to protect your freedoms. If you have been charged with a felony, it’s important to understand the key strategies your lawyer may use in your defense.

  1. Innocence
  2. This defense strategy revolves around evidence that you did not commit the crime you have been charged with.To prove your innocence, a felony attorney will likely gather witnesses to testify, experts to take the stand, and evidence your alibi is true.

  3. Self-Defense
  4. This defense strategy is most often used in assault, battery or murder cases. For a self defense strategy to be effective, you must work with your lawyer to prove to the court that there was true risk and danger that justified the use of violence as self-defense.

  5. Constitutional Violations
  6. The Constitution requires specific circumstances and actions be taken when someone is arrested and accused of a crime. Whether or not you committed the crime, your lawyer may use a Constitutional defense strategy if any of the following occurred:

    • You were not read your Miranda rights when arrested
    • The police collected evidence from your car or your home without following appropriate protocols
    • No warrant was obtained
    • You were coerced into confessing to the crime
    • The chain of custody on collected evidence was broken
  7. Insanity
  8. A final defense strategy is to claim insanity, meaning that you were not of sound mind when you committed the crime you are being charged with. This is a very difficult strategy because your lawyer has to prove that when you committed the crime, you could not differentiate right from wrong.

For your best chances at preserving your rights and receiving a fair trial, find a trusted felony lawyer to handle your case. Working with an experienced and compassionate attorney is crucial for protecting your future.

Request a consultation with Peterford Law today!


When Misdemeanors Become Felonies If you are facing felony criminal charges in Florida, you need a talented lawyer on your side.

The lines defining felony charges are often blurred by the circumstances of the crime committed. Previous criminal activity, the presence of firearms or deadly weapons, and the age of the victim can enhance the criminality of a charge. Such factors can also elevate a typical misdemeanor charge to a first- or second-degree felony.

For example, a fourth DUI is a felony, even though DUI crimes are typically considered misdemeanors. To prevent the elevation of charges, you’ll need expert assistance from a felony lawyer.

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Don’t wait any longer because every minute counts in criminal proceedings. Contact Kevin today to schedule a free consultation and discuss the details of your case.

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DUI and Criminal Defense Attorney Near Palm Beach County

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Kevin Peterford is a former prosecutor and has been on the other side of the courtroom. He has handled hundreds of DUI cases and tried over 30 trials to verdict.

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Kevin Peterford

Felony DUI Defense


A felony DUI typically involves uncontrollable circumstances, and this may work in your favor when developing a defense.

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Kevin Peterford The Felony Defense Lawyer in Palm Beach County that You Can Count On.

Kevin Peterford is an experienced Palm Beach County felony lawyer, and he has years of experience. As a previous prosecutor, Kevin has a unique knowledge of the courtroom. He knows Florida law inside and out, and he can help you build a winning defense.

Felony charges are serious—you face lifelong consequences if convicted of a felony. But, all is not lost. As our law states, all individuals are innocent until proven guilty. There are various legal defenses for felony crimes, including self-defense, duress, lack of capacity, and more. Kevin Peterford knows these defenses as he has seen them from both sides of the courtroom. He will work with you to develop a solid defense and ensure you the best outcome possible in your case.

Common Felony Charges That Kevin Handles

Felony DUI

A fourth DUI charge, or a third DUI charge that occurs within 10 years of a previous DUI charge, is tried as a second-degree felony in the state of Florida. Other circumstances that elevate a DUI charge to a felony include the death or injury of someone else or the presence of a child in the car.

Kevin Peterford is an established DUI lawyer, he handles both misdemeanor and felony DUI cases in Palm Beach County. A felony DUI typically involves uncontrollable circumstances, and this may work in your favor when developing a defense.

Drug Charges

Depending on the circumstances of drug crimes, felony charges can be brought upon the perpetrator. Trafficking is typically charged as a felony, and possession of large amounts of drugs and firearms will also bring felony charges. Selling drugs to minors, or possession of drugs within the vicinity of drug-free zones can also lead to felony charges.

Felony drug charges are circumstantial, and a strong defense can prevent the prosecution team from taking advantage of you. Many drug convictions require mandatory minimum sentences, so having a talented lawyer like Kevin on your side is paramount to a positive outcome.

Possession of a Firearm

While the right to bear arms is protected by our Second Amendment rights, convicted felons do not have that right. The simple possession of a firearm if you have a previous felony conviction on your record can send you to prison for a statutory minimum of 3 years. Additionally, a misdemeanor crime committed with a firearm can lead to felony charges.

Kevin has worked on various felony cases that involved the use or possession of firearms. He knows what the prosecution is looking for and how to build a solid defense against your felony firearm case .

Violent Felony

Any crime that was committed with excessive force or violence against a victim or police officer can be elevated to felony status. Examples include aggravated assault or battery, theft with a firearm, and housebreaking. Disregard for human safety and life is a serious criminal offense and will be charged with the full force of the law.

Kevin has handled various violent criminal cases, including domestic violence, and he knows the legal protocols. Violent crimes are often fueled by passion or self-defense, and Kevin will use these facts to protect your rights and fight your case.

Burglary

Burglary, the most serious theft crime, occurs when an individual trespasses on private property with the intention to steal. How much property is stolen, the presence of a firearm, and the assault of victims are all factors that can increase the severity of the burglary charge.

Theft is a common crime, and Kevin has represented plenty of clients facing similar charges. If you want a solid defense, you can count on his expertise as a felony lawyer and his solid Palm Beach County legal reputation.

Vehicular Homicide

Vehicular homicide in Florida refers to an automobile accident caused by reckless operating of a vehicle that results in someone’s death. It’s important to remember that if loss of life had not occurred, these same actions would likely be met with a minor traffic ticket. However, vehicular homicide verdicts can come with hefty punishments and long-lasting consequences.

As soon as you learn you’re being charged with vehicular homicide, it’s crucial to speak with a qualified and compassionate vehicular homicide attorney. Peterford Law can help you formulate the strongest defense possible and help protect your rights.

Felony Firearm Charge

If you are facing felony firearm charges in Florida, it’s important to understand the details of the charge, the potential punishments, and the possibilities for your defense. Especially because these charges apply specifically to those who have already been convicted of a felony, building a strong case is crucial for retaining your rights and protecting your freedoms.

Because this charge is uniquely nuanced and the stakes are high, it’s crucial to work with a felony firearm attorney who is experienced in Florida criminal defense. Peterford Law has handled over a thousand cases and has experienced both sides of the courtroom as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney. His years of experience and local knowledge can help in building the best possible defense for your felony firearm case.


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A felony charge is a serious legal offense that has resounding consequences for your entire life. Even if you’re only charged with a third-degree felony — the lowest offending felony — you still lose your civil rights and will struggle your entire life with employment, loans, and personal relationships. This is not a legal charge to take lightly.

To protect your rights, you need a strong defense from a dedicated felony lawyer. As a former prosecutor, Kevin Peterford saw the devastating effects of felony charges firsthand. He is now on the other side of the courtroom, defending everyday people from the dire consequences of felony crimes. No matter the circumstances of your case, your side of the story counts, and Kevin Peterford is here to give you a voice in the courtroom.

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DUI and Criminal Defense Attorney Near Palm Beach County

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Kevin Peterford is a former prosecutor and has been on the other side of the courtroom. He has handled hundreds of DUI cases and tried over 30 trials to verdict.

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Peterford Law Services


Criminal Defense

Florida criminal laws are strict, and charges can be sealed on your criminal record for years. A criminal conviction can carry devastating consequences, from jail time and hefty fines, to loss of employment and a diminished reputation.

DUI Defense

If you are facing a DUI and you fail to seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney, you risk not having all the information you need for an effective DUI defense strategy.

Drug Charges

A possession or paraphernalia charge will vary based on the type and amount, possessing a small amount of marijuana will probably be considered a misdemeanor charge whereas possessing a large amount of controlled substances would almost certainly carry serious felony charges.

Criminal Defense

Florida criminal laws are strict, and charges can be sealed on your criminal record for years. A criminal conviction can carry devastating consequences, from jail time and hefty fines, to loss of employment and a diminished reputation.

Felony Defense

Crimes are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies, the latter having much harsher sentences. Misdemeanors are milder crimes, such as shoplifting or disorderly conduct, while felonies include murder, violent assault, and burglary.

Kevin Peterford Provides Legal Defense For Most Criminal Charges

We help people all over Palm Beach County. Look what our clients have to say about us.


I'm extremely pleased with Kevins exceptional service. His dedication secured the best plea offer possible for my case. Quick and responsive, he consistently demonstrated genuine concern for my situation, making the legal process much smoother. Highly recommended for his expertise and client-centered approach. Kevin we...
— Fabian Penate, Posted December 1st 2023 on google
I recently got a scary misdemeanor that i didn’t want in my records, it was my first offense and first time talking to lawyers in general, but out of everyone i spoke too kevin was the best. His vibe and his knowledge on law really helped me stay calm through the entire process. I highly recommend him. Weather its yo...
— Ice.e Louis, Posted November 30th 2023 on google
I recently had the pleasure of working with Peterford Law, and I cannot express enough how impressed I am with their exceptional legal services. From the moment I reached out to them, I knew I was in good hands. Their expertise and attention to detail were evident throughout the entire process, ensuring that no stone w...
— Jayden Morales, Posted November 6th 2023 on google
I got charged with DUI. Like most people, I googled DUI lawyer and made some calls. Kevin Peterford was one of the lawyers I called. He personally called me back, not a receptionist or assistant. He called him himself. I explained my situation and we spoke for 15 minutes. He explained everything to expect from the stat...
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"I recently had the luck to find a exceptional lawyer and his fantastic assistant, who both made the entire process incredibly easy for me. While the assistant provided great support, it was the lawyer who truly stood out as an amazing professional. Not only was the lawyer highly skilled and knowledgeable, but he also...
— Gabriela Neiner, Posted October 13th 2023 on google
Words can’t even describe my level of satisfaction with Kevin as my attorney. If you find yourself in an unfortunate situation and need someone who truly cares to be in your corner then look no further! Kevin is the best of the best. He also has a rockstar team behind him. Erika was also a delight to deal with. Extr...
— Rich Lyon, Posted September 30th 2023 on google
I am absolutely thrilled to write this glowing review for Kevin Peterford. Words alone cannot capture the incredible legal journey I embarked on with him, but I’ll do my best to convey the profound impact he has had on my life. From the very beginning, it was clear that Kevin was not your ordinary attorney. He radia...
— Jonathan Maresca, Posted September 11th 2023 on google
Kevin is an amazing attorney and I would recommend him to anyone in need! I cannot say enough great things about his warm personality and responsiveness. He was able to make the best out of an extremely difficult situation for me. He showed great consideration and truly appeared to care about the outcome of my case. ...
— Karli Cooke, Posted September 5th 2023 on google
I hired Mr. Peterford for a crisis I was dealing with and he was very professional and diligent on how he handled my case. His price was very fair and the communication was very good throughout my proceedings, and I highly recommend Kevin for any of your legal needs!.
— Enlightened One, Posted September 2nd 2023 on google
I must say thank you Kevin for not only helping me one time for something minor , then yet again a few months ago to what was a felony charge and because of your diligence and hard work , and not taking no for an answer getting my felony charge, dismissed. I will forever be thankful and grateful to you . I will always ...
— Noreen, Posted August 24th 2023 on google
Thanks to Mr.Peterford's dedication and hard work, I achieved a favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. I am genuinely grateful for his guidance, professionalism, and the personal care demonstrated throughout the process. If you're seeking top-notch legal representation, I recommend Kevin to anyone in need of...
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Kevin and his team were incredibly helpful fighting my case. They were professional, poignant, and communicated well. Very happy with my experience!
— Meredith Wallace, Posted August 18th 2023 on google
My experience with Kevin was absolutely amazing.Thank you
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Mr. Peterford displayed a level of professionalism & dedication that put my mind at ease. His skills, attention to detail & strategic approach were beyond my expectations. They kept me informed at every step so I felt confident! I truly believe in their passion & commitment to his clients. I will highly recommend atto...
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Truly a great, stress free experience. i highly recommend Kevin & his team. he handled my case from start to finish leaving me with an amazing outcome. ONE OF THE BEST IN SOUTH FL - highly recommended.
— Isabella Martin, Posted July 20th 2023 on google
Could not ask for better representation. Fantastic attorney! Helped me out tremendously. He did everything he possibly could to help me out. He even went above and beyond to help me, by working to see that i be allowed to leave the state to visit utah with my family. If it wasnt for him i would not have been able to go...
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Kevin is such an experienced attorney! THANK YOU MR Peterford
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I’ve collaborated with several attorneys over the years and they do not hold a candle to the steadfast, capable approach Mr. Peterford offers his clients and colleagues. He is nothing but efficient and professional; he does not make empty promises nor does he send you on a goose chase in order to communicate the nuan...
— O Cas, Posted May 23rd 2023 on google
Working with Kevin at Peterford Law has been such a great experience. From the get go he was confident and transparent with his plans and what was needed from me. His secretary Erika was also such a pleasure to work with and very attentive and polite. Finding a lawyer is daunting and not always what we plan on doing ...
— Erin Nolan, Posted May 2nd 2023 on google