Alexis v. State

Geraldo Alexis appeals the portion of his sentence imposing a public defender fee of $500. Because the trial court failed to require proof of the amount of the fees imposed, we reverse and avail ourselves of this opportunity to set forth the relevant statutory authority and case law concerning this oft-repeated area of misconception.

Alexis was charged with burglary of a dwelling, grand theft, and lewd or lascivious battery, and ultimately entered an open plea of no contest to the charges. Following the sentencing hearing, the trial court adjudicated Alexis guilty and sentenced him to a period…