Location: Parkland, FL
Charge Type: Felony Battery
Result: Reduced to Misdemeanor
The Situation
A 15-year-old teen from Parkland, Florida, was involved in this case. The incident occurred at a park near a high school campus in Parkland, where the client was one of six teens arrested for assaulting a victim who suffered a severe skull injury. The client was initially charged with felony battery along with the other arrested teens, despite not being the main perpetrator. The case gained significant media attention due to the violent nature of the fight and the severity of the victim's injuries.
The client was the last to be identified among the six attackers and had a minimal role, joining the altercation near its end and only throwing a punch or kick. This lack of substantial involvement was crucial in reducing the charges. The defense focused on the client's positive character and minimal participation in the incident. Character references from parents, teachers, coaches, and family members highlighted the client's respectful and kind nature, as well as their strong academic performance and involvement in high-level courses. The client also completed a 16-hour anger management class, demonstrating a commitment to personal improvement.
The Defense Strategy
- Strategy Session: Susan Lawson held multiple strategy sessions with the client and their family to gather detailed character references and prepare a comprehensive mitigation package.
- Type of Session: In-person and phone sessions with the client and their family to gather information and build the defense strategy.
- Concerns of the Client and Actions by Rossen Law Firm: A primary concern was ensuring the client could return to school, which would not be possible with a felony conviction. Susan focused on demonstrating the client's good character and minor involvement in the fight. She compiled character references and evidence of the client's academic achievements and positive community involvement. The defense also highlighted the client's completion of an anger management class as evidence of their commitment to rehabilitation.
- Motions Filed: A detailed mitigation package was filed, including character references, evidence of the client's academic and community involvement, and proof of completion of the anger management class.
- Stages of the Justice System: This case had an initial arrest and arraignment, where the client pleaded not guilty, some pre-trial hearings where the mitigation package was presented, negotiations with the prosecution based on the presented evidence and the client's minor role in the fight, and court hearings determining the acceptance of the reduced charges and the final plea.
The Result
Thanks to Susan Lawson's diligent efforts, the charges were reduced from felony battery to a misdemeanor. The client pleaded no contest, allowing them to return to school and continue their academic and extracurricular activities. The court imposed a sentence of 50 hours of community service and a 500-word essay, along with probation conditions requiring the client to stay away from the fight location and avoid contact with co-defendants. This outcome was a significant success, demonstrating Susan's dedication and the effectiveness of the meticulously constructed mitigation package.