Question from Pete, Has the Minimum Mandatory Sentence for Convicted Felons in Possession of a Firearm Been Stopped in Florida, USA?
Answer from AI:
In Florida, the law regarding convicted felons in possession of a firearm is quite strict. As of the time of writing, there has been no general cessation or stoppage of minimum mandatory sentences for convicted felons found in possession of a firearm in the state of Florida.
Florida’s 10-20-Life Law
Florida’s 10-20-Life law, enacted in 1999, is a mandatory minimum sentencing law in the state of Florida. It imposes severe penalties on those who commit certain felonies involving the use or attempted use of a firearm or destructive device. Under this law, a convicted felon in possession of a firearm can face a minimum mandatory sentence.
- 10 years for certain felonies, or attempted felonies, in which a firearm is possessed
- 20 years for certain felonies, or attempted felonies, in which a firearm is discharged
- 25 years to life if someone is injured or killed
Changes to the Law
While there have been some changes to the 10-20-Life law over the years, these have generally been to provide judges with more discretion in certain cases, rather than to eliminate minimum mandatory sentences entirely. For example, in 2016, the Florida legislature passed a bill that allows judges to deviate from the 10-20-Life mandatory minimums in certain cases. However, this does not mean that the minimum mandatory sentences have been stopped for all convicted felons in possession of a firearm.
Legal Advice
If you or someone you know is a convicted felon and is concerned about the possession of a firearm, it is strongly recommended to consult with a legal professional. The laws surrounding this issue are complex and can carry severe penalties. A legal professional can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your situation.
For more information on Florida’s 10-20-Life law, you can visit the Florida Legislature’s official website. Please note that laws can change, and the information provided here may not reflect the most recent changes to the law.