Criminal courts and law enforcement authorities sort criminal offenses into one of two categories based on their severity. Felony offenses typically involve violent conduct or substantial financial harm, whereas misdemeanors generally do not involve violence and cause only minor financial harm, if any.
Misdemeanor charges still carry serious consequences, and a conviction can negatively affect many aspects of your life. Support from a skilled defense attorney could be key to reducing the impact of this type of charge. Working with a Key Largo misdemeanor lawyer from our team at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC could significantly improve your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Contact us today to get started.
According to Florida Statutes § 775.08, the term misdemeanor refers to offenses that are punishable upon conviction by no more than one year in county jail. This excludes noncriminal violations, such as most traffic offenses. State law divides misdemeanors into one of two classes to differentiate between comparatively less severe and more severe offenses.
Misdemeanors in the second degree, such as disorderly conduct, simple assault, and trespassing, can result in maximum penalties upon conviction of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Misdemeanors in the first degree, such as vandalism and first-offense driving under the influence, carry maximum sanctions upon conviction of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. A court may impose additional administrative penalties upon conviction for specific types of lesser offenses of either degree, as a Key Largo attorney could further explain during a confidential consultation.
A misdemeanor conviction will appear in any background check conducted by a potential landlord or employer, or by any law enforcement or government authorities who want to access your state-held records. Furthermore, the law classifies some criminal offenses, such as driving under the influence, as misdemeanors for first-time convictions but elevates them to felonies for repeat offenders.
Even if a court ultimately acquits you of a misdemeanor charge or dismisses the case, records related to your arrest and any arraignment may still be accessible through background checks. However, if you have no prior criminal history, our Key Largo legal team handling your minor offense could help you petition the state to seal or expunge those records.
Working with a Key Largo misdemeanor lawyer from our firm provides you with personalized guidance throughout the legal process. From your initial arraignment to the conclusion of your court case, we can work diligently to enforce your rights and pursue the best possible resolution for your unique circumstances and needs.
A member of our Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC team could discuss your options with you and offer preliminary advice about your next steps. Do not go to court alone. Contact us today to schedule your first consultation.
