Facing any type of criminal charge can be a scary experience, even for a crime that is “just” a misdemeanor. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to get the best legal representation possible.
The federal government and most state governments consider a crime punishable with incarceration for one year or less to be a misdemeanor. All other crimes are considered felonies. But even a misdemeanor conviction can have serious consequences, including substantial fines.
That is why it is important to seek help from a Florida misdemeanor lawyer who can help you work toward the best possible resolution.
Consequences of a Conviction
Florida law divides misdemeanor offenses into two different classifications. First degree misdemeanors are the most serious, with penalties that include up to one year in county jail and fines of up to $1000. Though the penalty for second-degree misdemeanors are not as onerous, they still can include up to two months in county jail and a fine of up to $500.
Even though misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, a conviction can have disastrous consequences. Any kind of incarceration can be intensely disruptive to someone’s personal life and could well lead to loss of a job. Hefty fines and burdensome community service requirements add to the disruption. Additionally, a conviction may result in loss of privileges, such as professional licenses, educational scholarships, residency, and citizenship.
Plus, a criminal record for any type of crime injures the reputation and can limit future possibilities. It can keep an individual from serving in the military, curtail job opportunities, or preclude an individual from attending desired universities and colleges.
Typical Misdemeanors
Some of the crimes generally classified as misdemeanors are:
- Petty (petit) theft
- Shoplifting
- DUI
- Driving on a Suspended License
- Reckless driving
- Hit and Run / Leaving the Scene of an Accident
- Trespassing
- Public intoxication
- Battery
- Simple assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Trespassing
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm
- Possession of cannabis
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Experienced Florida misdemeanor attorneys know the elements that the government must prove in a criminal case, and can spot the weaknesses in the prosecutor’s arguments.
Based on the circumstances of your case in light of the applicable laws, we will know when the best course of action is to stand firm and try to get the charges dismissed, or whether to seek a plea deal that will allow you to avoid a conviction and incarceration.
How a Defense Attorney Can Help
Many people have lawyers who have handled routine tasks for them in the past, such as drafting a will or helping with the purchase of real estate. But criminal law is a completely different world – the rules are different, and the stakes are a lot higher.
Self-representation is an even worse option. A defendant who does not know the law and how the criminal justice system works is not likely to achieve the best possible resolution.
An experienced defense attorney at Leifert & Leifert will listen to your story without judgment, knowing that anyone can make a mistake. The important thing is to receive the protections offered under state and federal law.
Contact a Florida Misdemeanor Lawyer Today
If you are facing criminal charges of any kind, you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to seek out advice from lawyers who have worked in the criminal courts for years, and who know how to work aggressively to defend your rights.
Do not wait another day before getting that advice. Contact a Florida misdemeanor lawyer at Leifert & Leifert today.
