Florida law defines a ‘misdemeanor’ as “any criminal offense punishable by anything less than one-year imprisonment.” While not as serious as a felony, an individual charged with a misdemeanor should not take it lightly. These convictions stay on your criminal record for life unless the record can be sealed or expunged. Like felonies, misdemeanors are classified by the severity of the crime by a first or second degree or some misdemeanors have their own special sentence parameters or classification. A judge will impose sentencing. Sanctions for misdemeanors can be monetary fines, jail time, community service, suspension or revocation of a driver’s license, mandatory counseling, restitution, or probation.
Convictions and Your Future
As with felonies, having a conviction for a misdemeanor can have long-term damaging impacts on life. Criminal records may be publicly accessed, affecting an offender’s life and personal relationships. A criminal record could also interfere with employment and housing opportunities, college admissions, personal loans, and scholarships. Certain crimes can disqualify applications for professional licenses. For non-citizens, this could even put them at risk for deportation. Our firm works in collaboration with our clients and experts to present the best defense.
A Solid Defense Can Help You
Our firm has helped clients seal records and expunge charges relieving them of the hardships a criminal record can impose. If you are charged with a misdemeanor crime, it is in your best interest to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney. You are innocent until proven guilty. The attorneys at Alba & Straile are prepared to analyze the evidence in your case and aggressively defend your rights in court. A solid defense can help you get charges dismissed or mitigated, thereby obtaining a more favorable outcome for your livelihood, career, and future.
Common Misdemeanors
- Assault
- Battery
- Criminal mischief
- Domestic violence
- Marijuana and paraphernalia possession
- DUI
- Loitering
- Petty theft
- Shoplifting
- Criminal Traffic offenses
- Trespassing
- Vandalism / Criminal Mischief
Types of Misdemeanors
Florida has many laws on the books, and if you are a fan of Florida Man, you’ve probably heard tales of some of the more bizarre crimes. However funny these charges sound, there are numerous offenses a person could be charged with that will have serious consequences, if convicted. A misdemeanor charge is no laughing matter and requires a strong defense team on your side. You are innocent until proven guilty. Our attorneys are prepared to defend your rights aggressively and present the best defense.
If convicted of a second-degree misdemeanor, the court may impose up to 60 days in jail and up to a $500 fine. If convicted of a first-degree misdemeanor, you may face up to a year in jail and a monetary fine of up to $1,000. Specific classification misdemeanors, such as a DUI and many other traffic offenses, also carry significant repercussions and long-term impacts on the personal and professional lives if convicted in addition to harsh insurance requirements.The court can also impose other mandates such as community service and probation. These mandates are at the discretion of the judge.
Alba & Straile have Proven Results
Practicing since 2003, our legal team has earned a reputation for being proactive and aggressive in our efforts to protect our clients’ rights. We recognize what is at stake in our clients’ personal and professional lives and strive to provide effective and efficient representation. We diligently work in collaboration with our clients to implement strategies to mitigate or dismiss charges.
We represent clients in Gainesville, Ocala, and throughout Florida. We stand ready to defend you against any charges you face. Contact Alba & Straile, PLLC, to hire an experienced and trusted criminal defense attorney. Our telephones are answered 24 hours a day and offer flexible appointment schedules to meet your needs.
Gainesville 352-371-9141
Ocala 352-694-4529