Misdemeanors in Fort Lauderdale
A misdemeanor charge in Florida is not something to ignore. Misdemeanors are criminal offenses and require an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney to assess and work with you to achieve the best possible outcome.
Although misdemeanors are not as consequential as other charges, they are criminal offenses, and a conviction can include jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record — which is why you need expert legal counsel to defend your case and work to reduce the penalties.
Have you or someone you know been charged with a misdemeanor?
Misdemeanors can include:
- Battery
- Cruelty to animals
- Domestic violence
- Disorderly conduct
- Driving with a suspended license
- Driving under the influence
- Marijuana possession
- Petty theft
- Shoplifting
- Traffic offenses
- and more
Misdemeanors comprise crimes in the first or second degree and have different punishments. Florida laws surrounding misdemeanors can be complex and can change. Extenuating circumstances also complicate matters — first, second, or repeat offenses can change the severity of the penalty for the crime.
Is your spouse, partner, child, or relative facing misdemeanor charges in Fort Lauderdale? Have you been accused of a misdemeanor? Are you looking for the best criminal defense attorney near you? The criminal defense lawyers at ZAGERLAW, P.A., can help you understand the charges and devise defense strategies for the best outcomes. Do not wait.
Let us help you with your Criminal Defense needs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida!
To set up a free and completely confidential legal consultation, call our law offices today at (954) 888-8170.
Fort Lauderdale
Misdemeanors versus Felonies
Criminal offenses in Florida typically fall under one of two categories – misdemeanors and felonies, and there are distinct differences.
Misdemeanors:
- Are less serious crimes than felonies
- Have less severe penalties than felonies
- Carry less maximum jail time (up to one year of incarceration)
- Are sentenced by a judge with no jury or preliminary hearing
- Have convictions that require time served in county or city jail
- Do not have convictions with life-long restrictions
Misdemeanor Punishments and Restrictions
Misdemeanors can be first-degree or second-degree. Although a misdemeanor can be punishable by up to a year of jail time, alternative punishments to incarceration can include probation, community service, or enrolling in a diversion program. A misdemeanor judgment in Florida does not affect a person’s right to vote, but the conviction will remain permanently on record unless expunged or sealed.
Felonies:
- Are more serious crimes, including assault, battery, carjacking, homicide, incest, kidnapping, robbery, and more
- Carry a minimum conviction of at least one year of incarceration up to life imprisonment or a death sentence for capital felonies
- Involve an indictment or a preliminary trial to determine the charges
- Carry convictions that require time served in a state penitentiary or a federal prison
- Carry convictions that may permanently prevent future gun purchases or voting in elections
Let us help you with your Criminal Defense needs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida!
To set up a free and completely confidential legal consultation, call our law offices today at (954) 888-8170
Felony Punishments and Restrictions
Felony crimes fall under one of five categories, which are first, second, and third degree, life, and capital. Some drug crimes fall under a separate category. Felony charges in Florida encompass severe criminal offenses and, therefore, can lead to the most severe punishments.
Charged with a Misdemeanor in Fort Lauderdale?
Although a misdemeanor charge may not feel overly concerning, this type of crime can still result in imprisonment and affect your criminal record. Furthermore, certain circumstances may impact the severity of the penalties associated with a misdemeanor offense. Contacting a Florida defense lawyer with expert knowledge will improve your chances of getting the best outcome.
The legal experts at ZAGERLAW, P.A., are some of the best criminal defense lawyers in Fort Lauderdale and are ready to help you fight your criminal charges. Do not leave your future to chance — enlist in the expertise of the criminal law experts at ZAGERLAW, P.A., today.
Put your future in the right hands!
To set up a free and completely confidential legal consultation, call our law offices today at (954) 888-8170.