MISDEMEANORS & FELONIES

Misdemeanors, Felonies and Appeals

Under Florida law, there are two types of criminal charges: misdemeanors and felonies. A felony charge is more serious than a misdemeanor. The most minor felony charge in Florida carries a potential maximum punishment of five years in prison. The most serious felony charge in Florida, a capital felony, can result in the death penalty. If an individual is convicted of a felony, he will lose his civil liberties, which include the right to vote and to carry a firearm. A felony conviction can also prevent you from being able to hold certain licenses or obtain certain employment.

Misdemeanor charges are also serious. A misdemeanor charge in Florida can result in a sentence of up to one year in jail. Misdemeanor sentences can also affect your employment, your ability to drive, and can prevent you from maintaining certain licenses. Examples of misdemeanor charges include battery, DUI, driving on a suspended license, petit theft, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, passing worthless blank checks, and drinking under age.

If you have been arrested and charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony, or if you are the subject of a criminal investigation, it is extremely important that you have a criminal defense attorney with you before you make any statements regarding your case. You have a constitutional right to remain silent and your refusal to make any statements cannot be used against you in any way.

There are a multitude of legal and constitutional rights you possess when you are charged with a crime. Once a person is charged, there are certain programs available that can result in the dismissal of criminal charges. There are also procedures available for sealing or expunging criminal records under certain circumstances. A sealing or expungement may protect your permanent record and future employment opportunities.

Jut because a person is convicted doesn't mean their case is over. Our Tallahassee criminal appeal attorneys are very skilled in evaluating cases to see if an error occurred before or during trial which may be appealed.

The criminal defense lawyers at Brooks, LeBoeuf, Bennett, Foster & Gwartney welcome the opportunity to discuss your individual situation, your legal and constitutional rights, and to determine what programs are available to provide you with maximum assistance. If your or someone you know needs help with a misdemeanor or felony charge, it is imperative that you contact an experienced attorney immediately and protect your legal rights.