MISDEMEANOR PENALTIES IN FLORIDA
Florida law breaks crimes down into two different categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanor offenses are the less serious of the two, usually featuring offenses that have smaller penalties and a much smaller impact on your life. However, just because one of these crimes isn’t as serious as a felony charge doesn’t mean you should take it lightly. Misdemeanor convictions can still have a devastating impact on your life, depending on the nature of the charge.
At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our Miami misdemeanor lawyers understand how serious a misdemeanor offense can be and just how serious your case is. When you’ve been arrested, you need an ally on your side who can help. Our Miami misdemeanor lawyers recognize the importance of a swift, firm response and rock-solid defense when fighting back against your prosecution, and we always prioritize the best possible outcome. Our record of success speaks for itself: we’re a trial-tested team that has earned a reputation for outstanding results, and we’re not afraid to stand by your side through every step of your case.
Call Hager & Schwartz, P.A. today at (305) 330-1360 and request an initial consultation with one of our Miami misdemeanor attorneys for assistance with your misdemeanor charge.
Call (305) 330-1360 for a free, confidential consultation.
SECOND-DEGREE MISDEMEANORS IN FLORIDA
Misdemeanors are further split into two more sections: misdemeanors of the first degree and misdemeanors of the second degree. Misdemeanors of the second degree are the less serious of the two types of misdemeanors, usually carrying lighter penalties and sometimes not even carrying a jail sentence. However, prosecutors will still usually push for the harshest possible penalties, so you shouldn’t hesitate to seek help from a lawyer before facing your charges for the first time.
Penalties for a misdemeanor in the second degree in Florida can include:
- Up to 60 days in jail
- A fine up to $500
If Florida law fails to classify a misdemeanor offense into either the first or second degree category, then Florida law considers it to be a misdemeanor of the second degree. One of the most common offenses in this category has to do with the sex crime of prostitution. Either prostitution or soliciting a prostitute are both charged as misdemeanors of the second degree.
MISDEMEANORS OF THE FIRST-DEGREE IN FLORIDA
Misdemeanors of the first degree are considerably more serious than their counterparts, carrying a much higher chance of a jail sentence and potentially larger fines. Florida Statute § 775.082 and 775.083 dictate that the maximum penalties for a misdemeanor of this class can be up to a year in prison plus a fine of up to $1,000.
TYPES OF MISDEMEANOR OFFENSES
A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 1 year in a county correctional facility. Following are some examples of misdemeanor offenses that a defense lawyer at our firm may be able to defend you against:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Driving With a Suspended License
- Reckless Driving
- Racing
- Battery (Domestic Battery or Simple Battery)
- Possession of Marijuana
- Obstruction of Justice
- Petty Theft
There may still be some ambiguity regarding your charges.
Get help with your case as soon as possible; contact Hager & Schwartz, P.A. to request assistance now with a Miami misdemeanor lawyer at (305) 330-1360.
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- Assault does not require physical contact.
- Battery requires an intentional touching or striking.
- Aggravating facts can elevate a misdemeanor to a felony.
- Self-defense and defense of others may be complete defenses.
Misdemeanors are further split into two more sections: misdemeanors of the first degree and misdemeanors of the second degree. Misdemeanors of the second degree are the less serious of the two types of misdemeanors, usually carrying lighter penalties and sometimes not even carrying a jail sentence. However, prosecutors will still usually push for the harshest possible penalties, so you shouldn’t hesitate to seek help from a lawyer before facing your charges for the first time.
Penalties for a misdemeanor in the second degree in Florida can include:
- Up to 60 days in jail
- A fine up to $500
If Florida law fails to classify a misdemeanor offense into either the first or second degree category, then Florida law considers it to be a misdemeanor of the second degree. One of the most common offenses in this category has to do with the sex crime of prostitution. Either prostitution or soliciting a prostitute are both charged as misdemeanors of the second degree.
Misdemeanors of the first degree are considerably more serious than their counterparts, carrying a much higher chance of a jail sentence and potentially larger fines. Florida Statute § 775.082 and 775.083 dictate that the maximum penalties for a misdemeanor of this class can be up to a year in prison plus a fine of up to $1,000.
A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 1 year in a county correctional facility. Following are some examples of misdemeanor offenses that a defense lawyer at our firm may be able to defend you against:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Driving With a Suspended License
- Reckless Driving
- Racing
- Battery (Domestic Battery or Simple Battery)
- Possession of Marijuana
- Obstruction of Justice
- Petty Theft
There may still be some ambiguity regarding your charges.
Get help with your case as soon as possible; contact Hager & Schwartz, P.A. to request assistance now with a Miami misdemeanor lawyer at (305) 330-1360.
HOW OUR ATTORNEYS PREPARE YOUR CASE
We preserve surveillance footage, photographs, dispatch recordings, body-camera video, medical records, phone data, and witness communications before they disappear. We investigate the scene, test the State’s timeline, and identify whether self-defense, accident, credibility problems, or unlawful police conduct changes the case.
TRUSTED WHEN THE STAKES ARE HIGH
They answered every question, kept me informed, and gave me confidence at every stage. The case was dismissed.
Former client
Brett was attentive, direct, and prepared. His strategy went above and beyond, and I could not be more pleased with the result.
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THE TEAM WHO WILL FIGHT FOR YOU
Brett M. Schwartz and John S. Hager bring more than 50 years of combined experience to state and federal criminal cases. You work directly with an attorney who knows your file and is prepared to answer when the situation changes."*" indicates required fields
