Were you charged with a misdemeanor in West Palm Beach or Palm Beach County?
If so, you may be confused about what a misdemeanor is, how a charge or conviction can impact your life, and what actions you need to take in dealing with local law enforcement and the local court system.
Our West Palm Beach criminal lawyers can help. We have years of experience working to protect our clients when they face misdemeanors or other, more serious crimes.
What is a Misdemeanor?
In Florida’s legal system, misdemeanors are criminal offenses which are less serious than felonies, but may still carry significant consequences.
While considered “less serious” than a felony in the eyes of the law, misdemeanors are serious and can have negative and long-term consequences on your life.
Committing and being charged for a misdemeanor could lead to a maximum jail time of one year in county jail, potential fines, possible probation, and a criminal record.
Misdemeanors have two primary classifications:
Second-Degree Misdemeanors
First-Degree Misdemeanors
Simply put, second-degree misdemeanors are less serious than first-degree misdemeanors. Certain criminal acts are deemed more serious than others and those acts face different levels of potential penalties.
First-time petit theft (property worth less than $750)
Disorderly conduct
Loitering
Driving with an invalid license
Minor criminal mischief (damage under $200)
Here’s a common scenario of a second-degree misdemeanor:
Sam is driving in West Palm Beach with an expired driver’s license. During a routine traffic stop, the officer discovers his license has expired for over six months. This qualifies as a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida, which could result in up to 60 days in Palm Beach county jail and/or a fine up to $500.
Penalties for second-degree misdemeanors include:
Maximum of 60 days in county jail
Fines up to $500
Potential probation up to 6 months
First-degree misdemeanors are the result of more serious crimes – the crimes themselves have more impact on others or on the community and therefore carry greater penalties.
Common first-degree misdemeanors include:
DUI
Shoplifting (under $300)
Reckless driving
Marijuana possession (less than 20 grams)
Second-offense petit theft
Indecent exposure
Drug paraphernalia possession
Trespassing
Domestic battery
Here’s a scenario of a first-degree misdemeanor in Florida:
Maria is pulled over in Miami and the officer discovers she has less than 20 grams of marijuana in her possession. This qualifies as a first-degree misdemeanor in Florida, which can result in up to one year in county jail, a fine up to $1,000, and potential probation.
Searching for an experienced criminal defense lawyer? Schedule a free consultation with the attorneys at The Pakett Law Group. Please call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
Penalties for first-degree misdemeanors include:
Maximum of one year in county jail
Fines up to $1,000
Potential one-year probation
Judges have broad discretion when sentencing misdemeanors. Penalties can be upgraded based on a prior conviction of the same offense. These charges can impact your personal and professional life, making it crucial to understand their implications.
What are some potential consequences beyond jail time?
Criminal record
Potential loss of driving privileges
Impact on employment opportunities
Professional license restrictions
What are some ways misdemeanors are different from felonies?
Felonies in Florida are “more serious” crimes that carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines – greater than those of misdemeanors.
Unlike felonies, misdemeanors typically allow:
Firearm ownership
Running for public office
Maintaining professional licenses
If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge:
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately
Do not discuss the case with law enforcement without legal representation
Understand your rights and potential defense strategies
How likely are you to go to jail for a misdemeanor in Florida?
After being arrested and charged with a crime you may spend some time in a local jail while your charges are being processed. However, the likelihood of going to prison depends on the nature of the offense and the outcome of your case.
Our team is committed to protecting your freedoms and working tirelessly to keep you out of jail or prison. In Florida, there are alternative sentencing options available for certain convictions that focus on rehabilitation rather than incarceration. For example, if you are convicted of a drug-related offense, our attorneys may be able to persuade the judge to impose monitored rehabilitation and community service rather than jail or prison time.
Facing a Misdemeanor Charge? Seek Legal Help Today
Understanding the nuances of misdemeanor charges can be complex. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal system and work to minimize the potential consequences of your charge.
If you’ve been charged with a crime or are under investigation, the best time to hire a criminal defense attorney is immediately.
The earlier you have professional legal representation, the better your chances of avoiding critical mistakes, protecting your rights, and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Remember – arrests are common in Florida, the legal consequences are serious, and having a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer is essential to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you were charged with a serious crime in West Palm Beach or anywhere in the state of Florida, please schedule a free consultation with The Pakett Law Group. You can call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
The Pakett Law Group, PA is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality representation. With over a decade of legal experience, West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer Brian T. Pakett and his team of West Palm Beach criminal lawyers possess a comprehensive understanding of Florida criminal law – which can benefit you in your time of need.