Violent crime charges are among the most serious accusations a person can face. A conviction for offenses like robbery, manslaughter, or murder can mean years—or even life—in prison, along with a permanent felony record that closes doors to work, housing, and family stability. If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation in Orange County or Seminole County, you need experienced and assertive representation immediately.
At Rentz Law, Attorney Carrie L. Rentz brings more than 20 years of criminal defense experience to clients facing violent felony charges in Central Florida. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, a clear understanding of your options, and a defense strategy built on the specific facts of your case.
How Rentz Law Can Help
Local courtroom experience – Regular appearances at the Orange County Courthouse in Orlando and the Seminole County Criminal Justice Center in Sanford mean we understand how local prosecutors and judges approach serious felony cases.
Hands-on defense – Carrie personally manages investigations, strategy, motion practice, and trial prep instead of passing your case to a junior lawyer.
Responsive communication – You have direct access by text, phone, or email so you are never left in the dark about your case progress.
Meet Your Defense Attorney
For over two decades, Carrie L. Rentz has defended people accused of some of the most serious crimes under Florida law, including homicide, robbery, aggravated battery, and other violent felonies. A former prosecutor, she understands how the State builds cases, evaluates plea offers, and prepares for trial—insight she now uses to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, expose weak points, and pursue the best possible outcome for her clients.
20+ Years of Experience Serving Orange and Seminole Counties
What Counts as “Violent Crime” in Florida?
“Violent crime” is not a single statute but a category of offenses that typically involve force, threats, or weapons, such as:
- Murder and Manslaughter: Homicide offenses covered under Chapter 782, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and manslaughter.
- Robbery: Taking property from a person by force, violence, assault, or putting in fear (Florida Statute §812.13).
- Aggravated Assault & Aggravated Battery: Offenses involving deadly weapons or serious bodily injury.
- Home Invasion, Carjacking, Kidnapping, Armed Burglary, and other forcible felonies.
Because these charges often carry mandatory minimum sentences and long guideline ranges, early strategic work and careful case development are critical.
Violent Crime Investigations in Central Florida
In Orange and Seminole Counties, violent crime cases are investigated by:
- Orlando Police Department and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office,
- Sanford Police Department and Seminole County Sheriff’s Office,
- and, in serious matters, FDLE or federal task forces.
Investigations may involve search warrants for homes and vehicles, cell phone data, surveillance video, DNA and fingerprint testing, ballistics, and in-depth witness interviews. In many homicide and robbery cases, detectives may contact you before formal charges are filed. Speaking to law enforcement without an attorney present can severely limit your defense options later.
How We Defend Violent Crime Cases
Every defense case is different, so our approach is meticulous, evidence-focused, and constructed around your specific circumstances.
Initial Case Review – We gather arrest reports, warrants, witness statements, 911 audio, and any available video evidence. We identify immediate concerns like no-contact orders, bond conditions, and exposure under the sentencing guidelines.
Investigation & Strategy – We interview witnesses, review forensic reports, scrutinize identification procedures, and consult with experts (forensics, ballistics, medical examiners, accident reconstruction) when needed. We evaluate issues like self-defense, mistaken identity, credibility of witnesses, and alternative explanations for injuries or events.
Motions & Negotiation – We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, challenge unconstitutional searches or seizures, and attack unreliable identifications or statements. At the same time, we evaluate and negotiate any plea options with an eye on sentencing exposure and collateral consequences.
Trial Representation – When trial is in your best interest or unavoidable, we prepare thoroughly, build a coherent narrative around your defense, and present it clearly to the jury. We cross-examine witnesses, confront forensic evidence, and ensure the State is held to its burden of proof.
Communication & Support – You work directly with Carrie throughout, with regular updates and honest advice so you can make informed decisions about your future.
Your Right to Fair Representation
If you’ve been accused of a violent crime, you still have fundamental rights:
- The right to remain silent.
- The right to an attorney.
- The right to a fair trial, including confronting witnesses, presenting evidence, and requiring the State to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt.
We take your rights seriously. Our job is to ensure that your case is not decided based on fear or assumptions, but on the actual evidence and the law.
Potential Penalties and Collateral Consequences
Penalties for violent crimes in Florida are severe and depend on the charge, the facts, and your prior record. Potential consequences include:
- Lengthy prison sentences (from several years to life imprisonment for some offenses).
- Mandatory minimum sentencing in certain firearm or serious injury cases.
- Substantial fines and restitution to alleged victims.
- Long-term probation with strict conditions.
- Permanent felony record affecting employment, housing, civil rights, and immigration status.
We analyze your sentencing guidelines, potential enhancements, and available mitigation so you understand your real exposure and options.
What to Do (and Avoid) After a Violent Crime Arrest or Investigation
If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for a violent crime, the actions you take in the early stages can significantly impact your case. To protect your rights and preserve your defense options, follow these important guidelines:
- Do not discuss the case with anyone other than your attorney – including friends, family, or on social media.
- Do not consent to searches or provide statements without speaking to counsel first.
- Preserve evidence that may help your defense (text messages, photos, videos, names of witnesses).
- Comply with court orders (no-contact, bond conditions, GPS, etc.) and keep all paperwork.
Contact a defense lawyer immediately if detectives ask to “talk” (even if you think you can clear things up).
Violent Crime Cases We Handle
Rentz Law represents clients in:
- Murder & Homicide Defense in Orlando
- Manslaughter & Vehicular Homicide Defense
- Robbery & Armed Robbery Defense
We also handle related charges such as aggravated battery, aggravated assault, carjacking, and armed burglary.
What Our Clients Are Saying
Carrie was extremely helpful in a difficult situation. She was detailed, easy to communicate with and provided a favorable result in the end. If your looking for a great attorney pick up the phone and call Carrie today!
Carrie is everything as advertised. She actually puts in time and effort to get to know you and shows true sympathy toward her clients. Great people skills and even better knowledge of the law. Highly recommended!
When I initially called Carrie I was hesitant, scared, and didn't know what to expect. I can tell you first hand, Carrie and her assistant are AMAZING. I would recommend to anyone and everyone. Good luck Carrie on your future endeavors, all the best.
I hired Mrs. Rentz for a legal issue I had in the Orlando area. Being from out of town, I use some references as a guide. Mrs. Rentz looked to be the right attorney. She is very caring and takes your issue very seriously.
This was by far the best experience i have had with a lawyer she always let me know what was going on with my case and always stayed positive while fighting for me in the courtroom. Just want to say i appreciate everything you have done for me and will definitely recommend you to anyone. If i could it would be 10 stars, thank you again
Carrie was wonderful to work with. She made the entire process so smooth for me and was always easy to get in touch with whenever I had any questions.
Carrie Rentz is an amazing lawyer. She is very informed and ready to answer any questions I have. She and her assistant reply to emails in a timely fashion and are both very friendly and knowledgeable. If you are looking for a lawyer I 100% recommend her.
Violent Crimes FAQs
Is every violent crime a "strike" or mandatory prison?
Not always. Some charges carry mandatory minimums or guideline scores that strongly favor prison, but others allow for downward departures, probation, or alternative resolutions depending on the case facts and your history.
If I acted in self-defense, can I still be charged?
Yes, charges are still possible, but Florida’s self-defense laws (including “Stand Your Ground” in certain situations) can provide powerful defenses if properly raised and supported by evidence.
Do the police need a warrant to arrest or search in a violent crime case?
Often they do, but there are exceptions (like exigent circumstances). We examine whether any search, seizure, or arrest violated your constitutional rights.
What if I'm under investigation but haven't been charged yet?
Contact a lawyer immediately. Early intervention can help control communications with law enforcement and may influence what, if anything, is ultimately filed.
Are murder and manslaughter treated differently from robbery?
Yes. Homicide offenses generally carry higher penalties and more complex forensic issues. Robbery involves force or threat in the context of a theft. Each has different elements, defenses, and sentencing ranges.
