FELONY

FELONY

A felony is any criminal offense under Florida laws that would be punishable by death or imprisonment in a state penitentiary for a period exceeding one (1) year.

Currently, the Felony Division has three courts, two full-time Circuit Judges and one judge who hears domestic violence cases. Felony cases are set for arraignment after the State Attorney has filed formal charges. A notice will be mailed to the defendant informing them of the date and time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How will I know when to come to court?

When formal charges are filed with the Clerk's Office you will be notified by mail of an arraignment date. If you bonded out of jail, your bondsman will be notified as well. All notices will be sent to the address that was given at the time of arrest.

What happens after an arrest on a felony charge and I am released from the Osceola County Jail?

The Clerk's office receives the initial paperwork from the Osceola County Jail after a felony arrest. The Felony Department prepares the official court file, including the original arrest document as well as any release form.

This information is also forwarded to the Office of the State Attorney. The State Attorney then reviews the case and makes the determination to file or not file formal charges.

How will I know when to come to court?

When formal charges are filed with the Clerk's Office, you will be notified by mail of an arraignment date. If you bonded out of jail, your bondsman will be notified as well. All notices will be sent to the address that was given at the time of arrest.

What if I move?

If you move, it is your responsibility to notify the Clerk's Office in writing. The mailing address is Clerk of Circuit Court, Felony Department, 2 Courthouse Square, Kissimmee, FL 34741

What is an arraignment?

An arraignment is a hearing where a defendant is advised of the formal charges filed by the State Attorney. At the arraignment, a pre-trial date and possibly a trial date will be set.

Can I change my court date after notification?

The Felony Department cannot change your court date. Please contact your attorney to help you with this problem.

How do I find out about my case?

To obtain information about your case over the phone, please call (407) 742-3566. To view your file, you may visit the Criminal Department at 2 Courthouse Square, Suite 2800, Kissimmee, Florida or you may visit the Clerk's website at www.osceolaclerk.com and select official court records on line.

When will the person that posted my cash bond receive their money back?

Once you have appeared for all court hearings and have been sentenced, the depositor will receive a check within 14 business days. Please be advised, pursuant to Section 903.286, Florida Statutes, the Clerk of Court SHALL deduct any court fees, fines and costs from any cash bond posted on or after 07/01/2005. The remainder of the bond would then be mailed back to the depositor.

What happens if I fail to appear for my court date?

Failure to appear may result in serious consequences. A felony judge may issue a warrant for your arrest. You may forfeit any bond that you have posted, thus losing money or collateral.

Can anyone attend a criminal proceeding?

All felony sessions are public unless certain proceedings are specifically closed by a judge.