Jacksonville Misdemeanor Attorney

Aggressive Defense for Misdemeanor Charges in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we understand that being charged with a misdemeanor in Florida can feel overwhelming. While misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies, a conviction can still carry harsh penalties and lasting consequences for your future. If you are facing charges in Jacksonville or the surrounding areas, our experienced criminal defense attorneys are here to protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

If you're facing misdemeanor charges, acting swiftly and effectively is crucial. Contact First Coast Criminal Defense at (904) 474-3115 to schedule a consultation.

What Is a Misdemeanor in Florida?

Under Florida Statute § 775.08(2), a misdemeanor is defined as a criminal offense punishable by up to one year in a county jail. Unlike felonies, which may result in state prison sentences, misdemeanors are prosecuted at the county level. However, a conviction still creates a criminal record that can affect employment, housing, education, and professional opportunities.

Florida divides misdemeanors into two categories:

• First-Degree Misdemeanor
  • Punishable by up to 1 year in jail
  • Fines up to $1,000
  • Examples: DUI, domestic battery, petit theft (second offense), resisting an officer without violence
• Second-Degree Misdemeanor
  • Punishable by up to 60 days in jail
  • Fines up to $500
  • Examples: trespassing, disorderly intoxication, simple assault

Even though these crimes may seem “minor,” a conviction can have long-term consequences. That is why working with a Jacksonville misdemeanor attorney is essential.

Common Misdemeanor Charges in Jacksonville

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we represent clients facing all types of misdemeanor charges, including:

• DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
• Simple Assault or Battery
• Domestic Violence (Misdemeanor Level)
• Petit Theft / Shoplifting
• Resisting Arrest Without Violence
• Disorderly Conduct or Disorderly Intoxication
• Trespassing
• Possession of Marijuana (under 20 grams)
• Prostitution or Solicitation
• Worthless Checks
• False Reports to Law Enforcement

No matter the charge, our defense team will carefully investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome for you.

Penalties for Misdemeanor Convictions

The consequences of a misdemeanor conviction in Florida go beyond jail time and fines. Depending on the nature of the charge, penalties may include:

• Probation (with strict conditions and monitoring)
• Community Service Hours
• Court-Ordered Counseling or Treatment Programs
• Driver’s License Suspension (for DUI or certain drug offenses)
• Permanent Criminal Record

Additionally, some defendants may face Habitual Misdemeanor Offender status under Florida Statute § 775.0837. This applies if you have four or more prior misdemeanor convictions within one year for certain offenses, such as domestic violence, theft, or drug crimes. If classified as a habitual misdemeanor offender, the court may impose enhanced penalties, including:

• A minimum of 6 months to 1 year in jail, or
• A residential treatment program, or
• Extended home detention.

Avoiding this label and protecting your future requires aggressive and knowledgeable legal representation.

Defense Strategies for Misdemeanor Charges

Just because you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor doesn’t mean you are guilty—or that a conviction is inevitable. Our defense attorneys use a wide range of legal strategies to protect our clients, such as:

• Lack of Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s case if evidence is weak, inconsistent, or improperly collected.
• Mistaken Identity: Demonstrating that you were not the person involved in the alleged incident.
• Self-Defense: Showing that your actions were taken to protect yourself or others.
• Unlawful Search or Seizure: Exposing constitutional violations that may make evidence inadmissible.
• Consent: Arguing that the alleged victim consented to the conduct.
• Diversion Programs: Negotiating entry into a pretrial diversion program, which could result in charges being dropped upon successful completion.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we tailor our defense approach to the unique circumstances of your case. We leave no stone unturned in building the strongest defense possible.

Can a Misdemeanor Be Dismissed in Florida?

Yes, in many cases, misdemeanor charges can be dismissed before trial. Dismissals often occur when:

• There is insufficient evidence to support the prosecution’s case.
• Police misconduct or procedural errors undermine the validity of the charges.
• The defendant successfully completes a pretrial diversion program.

Our attorneys evaluate every case to determine whether dismissal is a viable option. Even when dismissal is not possible, we work to negotiate reduced charges, minimize penalties, or secure alternatives to jail.

Why Choose First Coast Criminal Defense?

When your future is on the line, the attorney you choose makes all the difference. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we are dedicated to providing:

• Extensive Experience: We know Jacksonville’s courts, judges, and prosecutors—and how to navigate the system to your advantage.
• Personalized Defense: Every case is unique, and we build strategies tailored specifically to your situation.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We don’t just accept the prosecution’s case—we challenge it at every turn.
• Client-Centered Service: We keep you informed, answer your questions, and stand with you throughout the entire process.

Our mission is simple: to protect your rights, preserve your freedom, and safeguard your future.

Protect Your Record and Future Today

A misdemeanor charge in Jacksonville can have consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. The best step you can take is to contact a skilled Jacksonville misdemeanor attorney as soon as possible. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we are committed to fighting for the best outcome in your case.

Your future is too important to leave to chance—let us fight for you.

Call us today at (904) 474-3115 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.