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.
Statute Of Limitations
In Florida, as in most states, there is a statute of limitations for how long prosecutors have to file misdemeanor charges. The law states that there are two years to file charges for first-degree misdemeanors and one year for second-degree misdemeanors. If the incident that led to the charges surpasses these time limits, our Fort Lauderdale misdemeanor defense lawyer would petition the judge to dismiss the case. We will vigorously defend you and be your advocate if there are discrepancies regarding the statute of limitations, or any other component of the filing process.
Defense Options For Misdemeanors
You should not have to automatically plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge. Instead of facing the possibility of jail time and fines, discuss your options with an experienced lawyer. You can also avoid difficulties in securing employment or qualifying to carry a firearm. The Law Offices of R. David Williams will fight for your rights and for the case to be dismissed or reduced. Our Fort Lauderdale misdemeanor defense lawyer may determine that officers gathered evidence or made an arrest improperly. Call our team today to schedule a free consultation and review your defense options.