Felony? Misdemeanor? What Do They Mean? Learn All About The Difference Between Felony and Misdemeanors Under Florida Criminal Laws
Most Miami residents have probably heard the terms “felony” and “misdemeanor” at some point in their lives. Indeed, terms that are often used in actual criminal cases in Miami are often also introduced to Miami residents in made-for-television court dramas, reality courtroom television shows, and on the big screen in exciting legal-themed movies. However, the truth of the matter is that legal terminology can be confusing, and while Miami residents may have heard these words before, they may not know what they really mean. Felony charges and misdemeanor charges have significant differences under Florida criminal laws, however, that Miami residents, and especially those that have been charged with a serious crime, should know about. Here we discuss the difference between these two terms, and where to turn if you need legal help defending the criminal charges against you in Miami.
Felony Charges Under Florida Criminal Laws
A felony is a serious crime under Florida criminal laws. Simply put, a felony charge is “any criminal offense that is punishable under Florida laws, or that would be punishable if committed in Florida, by death or imprisonment in a state correctional facility.” As such, under Florida laws, felony charges may include, “murder, manslaughter, robbery, aggravated battery, aggravated child abuse, sexual battery, kidnapping, burglary, grand theft, battery on law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, willful or aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer, possession and/or sale of drugs, communication fraud, forgery, and passing worthless bank checks.” It is important to note that felonies are classified into five groups under Florida criminal laws: capital felonies, life felonies, first-degree felonies, second-degree felonies, and third-degree felonies. Capital felonies may be punishable by death, while third degree felonies may be punishable for up to 5 years in prison.
Misdemeanor Charges Under Florida Laws
On the other hand, misdemeanor criminal charges typically carry with them less severe punishments than felony charges. Typically, misdemeanor charges are punishable by up to one year in jail and fines under Florida criminal laws. Fines that are assessed against Florida criminal defendants convicted of misdemeanor charges are lower than those in felony criminal cases in Miami. However, being convicted of a misdemeanor crime in Miami may have other consequences, so it is best to speak with an experienced Miami criminal attorney as soon as possible, if you are charged with any crimes in Miami.
Legal Help for Miami Criminal Defendants
If you are in the Miami area and you need legal help with your Miami criminal case, do not hesitate to speak to an experienced lawyer about your rights and options right away. The experienced Miami criminal attorneys at AsiliA Law Firm are here to help Miami criminal defendants get justice due in criminal court. They can listen to your story and fight to beat the criminal charges against you. Do not hesitate to call AsiliA Law Firm and talk with an attorney today. Contact AsiliA Law Firm now and speak to a lawyer about your case.
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