Misdemeanors vs Felonies in Florida

Misdemeanors are less serious offenses that typically carry lighter penalties than felonies. Common examples of misdemeanors include petty theft, disorderly conduct, and simple assault. In Florida, misdemeanors are divided into two degrees:

• First-Degree Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Examples include battery, possession of marijuana (less than 20 grams), and DUI (first offense).
• Second-Degree Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. Examples include disorderly intoxication and simple assault.

While misdemeanors carry less severe penalties than felonies, they can still result in a permanent criminal record that may impact your life for years to come.

On the other hand, felonies are more serious crimes and carry much harsher penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and steep fines. In Florida, felonies are classified into five categories:

• Third-Degree Felony: Punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Examples include grand theft (over $750) and aggravated assault.
• Second-Degree Felony: Punishable by up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Examples include manslaughter and certain drug trafficking offenses.
• First-Degree Felony: Punishable by up to 30 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Examples include robbery with a deadly weapon and aggravated battery.
• Life Felony: Punishable by life imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $15,000. Examples include capital sexual battery and first-degree murder.
• Capital Felony: Punishable by death or life imprisonment without parole. The most common capital felony is first-degree murder.

Common Criminal Cases Our Firm Handles

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we have experience representing clients across a wide range of criminal matters. Our team is well-versed in the legal system and knows how to build a defense that challenges the evidence against you. Some of the most common criminal cases we handle include:

• Assault & Battery: These charges involve physical harm or the threat of physical harm to another person. Florida law distinguishes between simple assault, aggravated assault, and battery, with penalties ranging from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences. Whether you're accused of a bar fight or a domestic dispute, we will thoroughly investigate the incident and build a defense to protect your future.
• Domestic Violence: Domestic violence charges can have severe and long-lasting consequences, affecting not only your freedom but also your family relationships. If you've been accused of domestic violence, our team will help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
• DUI: Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Florida, carrying penalties that include jail time, license suspension, and hefty fines. Our firm understands the science behind DUI testing and will challenge the validity of breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and any unlawful police conduct during your arrest.
• Expungement: Having a criminal record can hinder your ability to secure employment, housing, or education. Fortunately, under certain circumstances, Florida allows individuals to have their criminal records sealed or expunged. Our team can help you determine if you're eligible for expungement and guide you through the process to clear your record.
• Federal Crimes: Federal charges are handled in a different court system and often come with harsher penalties than state charges. We represent clients in cases involving federal crimes such as drug trafficking, fraud, and conspiracy. Our firm will mount a vigorous defense and ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
• Sex Crimes: Being accused of a sex crime can destroy your reputation and result in significant penalties, including mandatory registration as a sex offender. Whether you're facing charges for sexual assault, possession of child pornography, or indecent exposure, our firm will provide a thorough and strategic defense to protect your rights and reputation.
• Theft Crimes: Theft crimes range from petty theft to grand larceny and robbery. A conviction can lead to fines, jail time, and a criminal record. We will scrutinize the evidence against you, including witness testimony and surveillance footage, to build a defense that challenges the prosecution's case.