Difference Between Felonies and Misdemeanors in Orlando

Were you recently arrested but unsure as to how the charges could affect you? A major determining factor over the severity of associated penalties is whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. While one charge may require you to spend a year in jail, the other can result in you getting sentenced to far more severe penalties, including death. With the help of an experienced misdemeanor attorney, however, you can have felony charges reduced to a misdemeanor, drastically lowering the maximum penalty for the crime.

Our team of lawyers at The Umansky Law Firm specializes in defending clients accused of committing a criminal offense. For more than 20 years we’ve helped give our clients a second chance, handling all types of cases from misdemeanors to felonies. We make the efficiency of your defense our top priority.

Types of Misdemeanor and Felony Offenses

Many crimes can only be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, but there are a few that can be charged as both. When seeking legal representation, it’s crucial that you secure an attorney who has experience handling your specific criminal offense to help ensure that your case is in good hands. At The Umansky Law Firm, we handle many types of criminal charges in Florida including:

  • Drug Offenses: possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia
  • Violent Crimes: domestic assault, domestic violence, and assault and battery
  • Theft Crimes: petit theft and shoplifting
  • Drinking and Driving: reckless driving, DUI and driving with a suspended license
  • Sex Crimes: internet sex crimes, indecent exposure, and sexual battery

Each crime has its own criminal penalties that vary depending on whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony. A common similarity they have in common is the long-term effect on your everyday life and freedom if accused or convicted.

Misdemeanor Penalties vs. Felony Penalties in Orlando

A misdemeanor offense in Florida is often associated with fines and community service. However, in some cases, you can still face jail time or probation. Here is a breakdown of the misdemeanor penalties in Florida:

  • First-degree misdemeanor – Up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
  • Second-degree misdemeanor – Up to 60 days in county jail and/or a $500 fine.

Though the maximum jail sentence for a misdemeanor offense is only one year, a conviction of any type can make it difficult to find work, buy a home, or even get enrolled in higher education.

If you’ve been charged with a felony in Florida, the punishments become much more severe. Convictions bring life-changing devastation to not just you, but your family as well. Below is a breakdown of each type of felony and the penalty associated with it.

  • Capital felony: Death penalty or life sentence
  • First-Degree Felony: Maximum 30 years in prison and $10,000 fine
  • Second-Degree Felony: maximum 15 years in prison and $10,000 fine
  • Third-Degree Felony: maximum five years in prison and $5,000 fine

One also loses their most basic of civil rights, such as the ability to vote or run for office because of a felonious conviction. Felony sentencing is based heavily on prior convictions, thus habitual offenders will face even more severe punishments. Florida does not have a fine-tuned clemency program either, so any attempt to file for restoration of lost civil rights could take years without any guarantee of success.

Contact an Orlando Attorney to Discuss Felonies and Misdemeanors

If you’re facing felony or misdemeanor charges in Orlando, Florida, reach out to a local attorney who can explain your legal options. Members of The Umansky Law Firm have been quoted by or appeared on many national media outlets including USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, People, and NBA, CBS, ABC and FOX affiliates.

Our criminal defense lawyers possess more than 100 years of combined legal experience that we use to help mitigate your criminal charges. As former state prosecutors, we know exactly how a state will approach your case, which gives us the advantage in the courtroom. Don’t risk your future and freedom and go it alone facing charges.  Contact our office online or by phone today for a free case evaluation.

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    Difference Between Felonies and Misdemeanors in Orlando
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