At the Misdemeanor Clinic, we understand that a misdemeanor conviction will have lasting implications. With sensitivity to each unique situation, the skilled attorneys at the Misdemeanor Clinic provide experienced and zealous representation for our clients.
A misdemeanor is a crime that is punishable by up to one year in jail as opposed to felonies, which are crimes involving punishments in excess of one year. Misdemeanors are further classified as first degree and second degree. A first-degree misdemeanor can involve spending up to one year in county jail and paying up to $1,000.00 in fines. A second-degree misdemeanor conviction can result in spending up to two months in county jail and paying up to $500.00 in fines.
Misdemeanor Representation
The most common misdemeanors include:
- Petit Theft: The unlawful taking or use of property valued at less than $750.
- Shoplifting: Shoplifting is best defined as retail theft.
- Driving Under a Suspended License / No Valid Driver’s License.
- Juvenile Criminal Defense: Everyone makes questionable choices in their youth; it is a part of growing up. Unfortunately, those choices sometimes result in a criminal charge. When this happens, a different set of procedures is used to prosecute the juvenile. If your child is charged with criminal offenses, it is essential to obtain counsel that understands this alternative set of procedures and fights to prevent them from receiving a conviction that will remain on their criminal record. At the Misdemeanor Clinic, we provide juveniles with the aggressive representation they need.
- College Student Defense: College is a time in most of our lives when we are learning how to navigate the world and live independently. Sometimes this results in bad decisions which lead to criminal charges. If this happens to you or your child, and a conviction is obtained, there may be disciplinary action from the school. Our legal team is able to assist in this matter and will advocate to keep you or your child enrolled in school.
- DUI Defense: A conviction for DUI, or driving under the influence, can result in a fine, incarceration, probation, and/or loss of driving privileges. Our firm is able to provide preeminent DUI defense.
- Probation Violations: Often, a court will impose probation upon a person sentenced to a misdemeanor, usually as an alternative to incarceration. However, there are probation terms and conditions that must be complied with or the probation may be revoked and the defendant sent to jail. At the Misdemeanor Clinic, we can help you if you violate the terms of your probation.
- Criminal Mischief: Also known as vandalism, criminal mischief occurs when a person maliciously and willingly destroys the property of another.
- Possession of Marijuana (Possession of over 20 grams is a felony): Possession of 20 grams or less means you could face a fine as much as $1,000 and/or a year in prison.
- Assault: Any intentional and unlawful threat by word or act to commit violence is defined as assault. Florida law has categories for assault that include simple, aggravated, and felony assault.
- Battery (Physical contact with another person without their permission): Once physical contact is made, Florida law allows for prosecution of battery.
- Prostitution: The act of buying, selling, offering, soliciting, or agreeing to engage in sexual favors in exchange for money is defined as prostitution.
- Trespass: Unlawfully entering a structure or conveyance can result in jail time and a fine of up to $500.
- Resisting Without Violence: Although a non-violent crime, resisting arrest during the execution of a legal duty can result in penalties of up to a year of jail time.
Contact a Florida Criminal Defense Attorney at the Misdemeanor Clinic
Having a conviction on your record can affect your ability to obtain a job, rent or buy a home, or attend the school of your choice, which is why it is imperative that you obtain legal counsel to aggressively advocate on your behalf. At the Misdemeanor Clinic, we are criminal defense attorneys who have the knowledge and ability to properly defend you. Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation with one of our premier criminal defense attorneys.
