Ft. Pierce Criminal Defense Lawyer
There are two categories of criminal offenses: misdemeanors and felonies. While a conviction for a misdemeanor is less severe than a felony, this does not mean that a misdemeanor cannot have serious and far-reaching consequences, because it often does. Misdemeanor convictions can result in jail time, expensive fines and a wide array of court-imposed sanctions. Attorney Gabrielle Radcliffe provides experienced, effective and thorough legal representation to clients charged with misdemeanor offenses.
First and Second Degree Florida Misdemeanors
In Florida, there are two categories of misdemeanors: the first degree misdemeanor and the second degree misdemeanor. A misdemeanor conviction may result in the following:
- First degree misdemeanor: up to one year jail, $1,000 fine
- Second degree misdemeanor: up to 60 days jail, $500 fine
Examples of Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors vary greatly. First degree misdemeanors include the following:
- DUI – drunk driving, boating while intoxicated
- Simple battery, trespass, vandalism, possession of under 20 grams of marijuana
- Writing a bad check, shoplifting ($100-under $300)
- Prostitution and solicitation for prostitution (second offense)
- Disorderly conduct, resisting arrest without violence, simple battery
Second degree misdemeanors include loitering, expired tag, petit theft (less than $100.00), criminal mischief with less than $200 damage, and simple assault, to name just a few.
Treasure Coast Criminal Defense Attorney
A misdemeanor conviction can result in serious consequences for those with professional careers, including, but not limited to:
- Attorneys, law students, accountants, engineers, bankers, teachers
- Medical professionals, including physicians, nurses, therapists, pharmacists
- Any employee with security clearance; law enforcement, military
- Students planning to take out or renew student loans
- Professional drivers, security professionals, government employees
Diversion Programs for First Offense Misdemeanors:
A misdemeanor charge should be taken seriously. It is in the defendant’s best interests to retain experienced legal representation. Your attorney will seek to have your case dismissed whenever possible. There are also misdemeanor pretrial diversion programs for certain offenses that offer qualified offenders the opportunity to complete a court-approved program, resulting in dismissed charges. In this way, a conviction and a criminal record can be avoided without risk of trial. Diversion programs may require payment of restitution (when applicable), community service, batterer’s intervention/anger management classes, alcohol or substance abuse program, counseling, and more. Speak to Attorney Radcliffe to discuss whether a diversionary program may be pursued in your case.
Gabrielle Radcliffe Law Office, P.A
Attorney Radcliffe believes that every person charged with a crime deserves to have competent counsel, someone on their side and someone who believes in them. Attorney Radcliffe has been a member of the Florida Bar for 23 years with wide experience and her practice area is now focused on criminal and forfeiture law. For a complimentary case review to discuss your possible options, call the Gabrielle Radcliffe Law Office, P.A. at 772-466-8000.