Tampa Misdemeanor Attorney

Arrested for a Misdemeanor in Tampa, FL?

In Florida, a misdemeanor may be punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Although they are not considered as severe as felonies, misdemeanors are still criminal offenses with potentially life-changing penalties and are worth challenging with the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. You may be facing jail time and fines as well as other penalties, and an attorney can help to protect you from these potentially serious consequences. 

Some examples of common misdemeanor offenses include:

• Disorderly conduct
• Driving on a suspended license
• Petty theft or shoplifting
• Driving under the influence (DUI)

Take a moment to talk to our Tampa misdemeanor defense lawyer about your legal rights and options. Call (813) 321-7323 today for your free initial consultation.

Common Penalties for Misdemeanors in Florida

Though misdemeanors are less severe than felony offenses, they may still have lasting effects. Additionally, certain aggravating factors may cause misdemeanor offenses to be enhanced to felony charges. These factors may include prior offenses, the use of a weapon, or the age or profession of the alleged victim.

The following penalties may be imposed for different classifications of misdemeanors:

• First Degree: Punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000
• Second Degree: Punishable by up to 60 days in jail

It is important to note that the specific penalties enforced by the court may vary depending on the jurisdiction, the circumstances, and even the judge’s discretion. Therefore, it is essential to discuss your specific charges with a defense lawyer who can advise you on what penalties apply to your unique case. 

Most importantly, don’t assume a misdemeanor is a “minor” charge that doesn’t need legal counsel. Misdemeanor charges can result in jail time, fines, and other serious consequences, affecting everything from your job to your housing to your rights.

Talk to a Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer in Tampa

Misdemeanors may be “lesser” criminal offenses, but they still require the immediate attention of a skilled defense lawyer. You could face serious penalties, may lose your driver’s license or professional license, and may have to deal with other consequences that could impact your life for years. A competent misdemeanor defense attorney in Tampa can defend your future.

At The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk, we've fought for clients in the face of all types of misdemeanor offenses for the past 20 years. We know how to handle these cases and never give up on our clients' futures. When your future is on the line because of misdemeanor charges, you need a team you can trust to defend your rights. Our experienced team is standing by to help.

Get the aggressive help of a skilled Tampa misdemeanor defense attorney at The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk. Contact us today.