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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando, FL | Hanlon Law

Orlando Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Law Enforcement Lawyer

Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Attorney in Orlando, Florida

Being accused of fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer is a serious criminal matter in Florida. What may begin as a routine traffic stop can quickly escalate into felony charges if law enforcement believes a driver intentionally failed to stop when ordered to do so. These cases often arise from misunderstandings, confusion, or tense roadside encounters, yet the legal consequences can be severe.

If you have been charged with fleeing or attempting to elude police in Orlando, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. At Hanlon Law, we represent individuals facing a wide range of criminal charges, including serious traffic-related felonies. Orlando criminal defense attorney Will Hanlon has decades of experience defending clients throughout Florida and works to protect their rights, freedom, and future.

What Is Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Law Enforcement?

The offense of fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer is defined under Florida Statute 316.1935. Under this law, it is illegal for the driver of a vehicle to knowingly refuse or fail to stop after being directed to do so by a duly authorized law enforcement officer.

In general, the statute applies when:

A law enforcement officer orders a driver to stop their vehicle
The driver is aware of the order to stop
The driver willfully refuses to stop or attempts to flee

The law also applies if a driver initially stops but then attempts to leave the scene to avoid the officer.

Situations That May Lead to Fleeing or Eluding Charges in Orlando, Florida

Many people associate fleeing and eluding charges with dramatic high-speed police chases. While those situations do occur, the law covers a much broader range of circumstances.

In some cases, drivers may be accused of fleeing even when traveling at relatively low speeds. For example, a person who delays pulling over while searching for a safe location to stop or who does not immediately notice police lights or sirens may still face allegations under the statute.

Because the law focuses on whether a driver willfully refused to comply with a police order, disputes about intent and awareness often become central issues in these cases.

Criminal Penalties for Fleeing or Eluding in Orlando, Florida

The penalties for fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement depend on the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident.

In many situations, the base offense is charged as a third-degree felony, which may carry penalties including:

Up to five years in prison
Up to five years of probation
Significant fines and court costs

If prosecutors allege that the driver fled while law enforcement lights and sirens were activated, the offense may still be charged as a third-degree felony but can carry additional scrutiny.

More serious penalties may apply if the alleged fleeing involved high-speed driving or behavior considered dangerous to others. In those cases, the charge may be elevated to a second-degree felony, which can carry penalties of up to 15 years in prison or probation.

Mandatory Adjudication in Fleeing Cases in Orlando, Florida

One important aspect of fleeing and eluding charges is that Florida law limits certain sentencing options. In many cases involving this offense, courts are not permitted to withhold adjudication if a person is convicted.

This means that a conviction could result in a permanent felony record, which may have long-term consequences for employment, housing, and other opportunities.

Because of these potential consequences, individuals facing these charges should take them seriously and seek experienced legal representation.

Defending Against Fleeing or Eluding Allegations in Orlando, Florida

Every fleeing or eluding case involves unique circumstances, and a strong defense often depends on carefully examining the facts surrounding the traffic stop. Prosecutors must prove that the defendant knowingly and intentionally refused to comply with a lawful order to stop.

Possible defense strategies may include demonstrating that:

The driver did not realize law enforcement was signaling them to stop
The driver attempted to pull over safely but was misinterpreted
Police procedures were not properly followed
The evidence does not prove a willful attempt to evade law enforcement

An experienced criminal defense attorney can review the evidence, evaluate the actions of law enforcement, and determine the most effective strategy for defending the case.

Speak With an Orlando Criminal Defense Lawyer

Fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement is a serious charge that can lead to significant criminal penalties and a lasting impact on your record. Early legal representation can be critical to protecting your rights and building a strong defense.

Attorney Will Hanlon has been defending individuals accused of criminal offenses in Florida since 1994. At Hanlon Law, we provide strategic and dedicated representation for clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges.

If you have been arrested or investigated for fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement in Orlando, call Hanlon Law at (407) 987-3836 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your legal options.