Gainesville Felony and Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer
Florida Criminal Defense Attorney
A felony is more serious than a misdemeanor and carries very serious penalties. An individual charged with a felony can be sentenced to anywhere from one year to life imprisonment in a state prison facility. Additionally, felonies carry higher fines than misdemeanors, and longer periods of probation. In Florida, felonies fall under five general categories: capital felony, life felony, felony of the first degree, felony of the second degree, and felony of the third degree. The penalties for each are as follows:
- Capital Felony: Punishable by death or life imprisonment with no opportunity for parole
- Life Felony: Punishable by life imprisonment, or a term of not less than 25 years imprisonment, followed by probation or community control for the remainder of the person’s natural life, and/or a fine of up to $15,000
- Felony in the First Degree: Punishable by a term not exceeding 30 years, or in certain instances, a term not exceeding life imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $10,000
- Felony in the Second Degree: Punishable by a term not exceeding 15 years, and/or a fine of up to $10,000
- Felony in the Third Degree: Punishable by a term not exceeding 5 years, and/or a fine of up to $5,000
A Misdemeanor is less serious than a felony, and is punishable by up to one year in a county jail. Misdemeanors fall under two general categories: misdemeanor of the first degree and misdemeanor of the second degree.
- Misdemeanor in the First Degree: Punishable by a term not exceeding one year, and/or a fine of up to $1,000
- Misdemeanor in the Second Degree: Punishable by a term not exceeding 60 days, and/or a fine of up to $500
In addition, some crimes, such as a DUI, provide for additional penalties as required by Florida state law.
Misdemeanor and Felony Defense Attorney
Attorney Robert G. Whittel serves clients in the state of Florida who have been charged with either a misdemeanor or felony charge. As a Florida criminal defense lawyer Robert G. Whittel has many years of legal experience and is dedicated to helping provide the best defense possible for your case. Contact one of his three offices located in Bushnell, Ocala or Gainesville, Florida today for a free initial consultation.
Accused of a felony or misdemeanor? Contact Attorney Robert G. Whittel today!