A misdemeanor charge is not as serious as a felony, but it is still something you want The Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A., to help you with.
Misdemeanor Defense lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
Like in most U.S. states, formal criminal charges are either felonies or misdemeanors in Florida. Though there are key differences between the two, an important takeaway is that misdemeanors are less serious and carry lighter sentences. However, this does not mean you should not seek legal counsel if you have such a charge. Without competent representation, you could still face jail time, fines, and long-term consequences.
Misdemeanors do not have preliminary hearings, nor do they include jury trials. You stand before a judge and receive a sentence. The team at The Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A., will work diligently to build an effective defense strategy to reduce your sentence, or dismiss the charges entirely.
Common Misdemeanor Offenses
Misdemeanor charges can come in many forms. They are divided into first- and second-degree crimes. The differences between the two depending on various circumstances, including prior offenses. Common misdemeanors include:
- battery
- petty theft
- shoplifting
- disorderly conduct
- first or second DUI
- vandalism
Our Fort Lauderdale misdemeanor defense lawyer will be your staunch advocate during your case. Schedule a free consultation today so that we may discuss your legal options.
Misdemeanor Penalties In Florida
A first-degree misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. You may also have to serve up to 12 months of probation.
A second-degree misdemeanor carries a punishment of as many as 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. You can also be sentenced to six months of probation. Be aware, however, that repeat misdemeanors will bring stiffer penalties. For example, although a battery charge is a misdemeanor, a second charge will be a third-degree felony. A third petty theft charge becomes a felony, as well. If you have a fifth or subsequent misdemeanor conviction, the court will consider you a habitual misdemeanor offender. You would then face the possibility of six months in jail.
Problem-solving Courts
Our Fort Lauderdale misdemeanor defense lawyer may petition to have your case qualify for a problem-solving court. This may be a part of your probation or a pretrial intervention program. A problem-solving court can include drug courts, mental health courts, and veterans’ courts. This would be a possible option if your criminal behavior was a result of addiction, mental health challenges, or military service-related issues.
If you successfully complete the court while on probation, it will satisfy your sentence. However, if you do not comply with the terms of the court, you could go to jail. If you are participating in a problem-solving court pretrial, the judge will dismiss the charges when you complete the program. You may have to return to the court and continue the program longer if you fail to abide by the program’s terms and conditions.
If you face charges, your best strategy is to consult our Fort Lauderdale misdemeanor defense lawyer today. Call us to schedule a free consultation.