Major Felonies Attorneys Serving Sarasota, Tampa, Charlotte, Pinellas, Polk, and Hillsborough Counties

Florida Felonies and Misdemeanors

When you are charged with a criminal offense, it is usually categorized as a felony or a misdemeanor.  A felony offense is considered more serious than a misdemeanor offense and usually involves harsher and lengthier legal consequences.  The decision to prosecute an offense as a felony or misdemeanor is made by the Florida District Attorneys.  Both felonies and misdemeanors can appear on your criminal record and place limits on future career, education, and housing opportunities.

Felonies
A felony is the most serious type of crime you can commit within the legal system.  A crime that is punishable by more than one year in prison or by death is usually considered as a felony.  Felonies often involve the bodily harm of another person, large sums of money, or assault crimes in the first degree.  Common felony offenses include, but are not limited to:

• Murder
• Rape
• Sexual Abuse
• Grand Theft
• Kidnapping
• Embezzlement

If a person is convicted of a felony, they may face restrictions on their civil rights.  Felons are not allowed to serve on juries.  In some jurisdictions, felons are not allowed to vote or practice certain professions.  Convicted felons are also not allowed to own or possess firearms. 

Punishments for felony convictions depend upon the type of crime committed and its severity.  Most felonies are punishable with over a year of jail time, large monetary fines, lengthy probation terms, house arrest, and community service.

Misdemeanors
Misdemeanor offenses are considered less serious than felony offenses.  A crime that is punishable by less than a year in prison is typically considered a misdemeanor.  Misdemeanors do not usually involve serious bodily harm to another person.  Common misdemeanors include, but are not limited to:

• Traffic Violations
• Petty Theft
• Drunk Driving
• Receipt of Stolen Property

Misdemeanors are punishable by probation, jail time of less than a year, community service, counseling, restitution, and monetary fines.

If you are being charged with a felony or misdemeanor offense, it is in your best interest to speak with a reputable Florida criminal defense attorney.  Our law offices can evaluate your case and inform you of your options.  Please call us to discuss your misdemeanor or felony charge. 

Contact us about your legal matter today!