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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can a Misdemeanor Criminal Attorney in Jacksonville Help Me?

An experienced misdemeanor criminal attorney in Jacksonville, like those at First Coast Criminal Defense, can assess charges, challenge evidence, and represent your rights in court. Our detailed understanding of Florida’s legal system enables us to provide strategic defenses that aim to minimize penalties and protect your future. Having a lawyer who knows the local judges and prosecutors can also make a crucial difference in the handling of your case, allowing for smoother negotiations and potentially more favorable outcomes.

Do I Need a Lawyer if I Plan to Plead Guilty?

Even if you plan to plead guilty, consulting a misdemeanor attorney in Jacksonville is wise. A skilled lawyer can negotiate plea deals that might lessen penalties and avoid unintended consequences. Our team ensures you understand all options and outcomes before making a decision. Pleading guilty without legal advice can lead to unforeseen complications, such as a record that affects future career opportunities, thus highlighting the necessity of professional legal counsel in every circumstance.

Why Is First Coast Criminal Defense the Best Choice for Me?

By choosing First Coast Criminal Defense, you receive a team committed to personalized service, 24/7 communication, and a strategic defense approach. Our exclusive criminal defense focus ensures you benefit from knowledgeable and dedicated representation, giving you the best chance at a favorable outcome. Our long-standing presence in Jacksonville means we not only understand the legal system profoundly but also have a committed network of contacts to help turn challenges into opportunities across various legal domains.

Contact Us Today for Professional Assistance

 By partnering with us, you gain a dedicated team focused on protecting your rights, offering clarity, and supporting you through each legal step. Let us alleviate the stress and uncertainty, helping you focus on what matters most—your future.