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What’s the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Misdemeanors are crimes that are typically treated as less serious than felonies and thus have less severe penalties.
For instance, a misdemeanor shoplifting charge will be treated less severely than a felony robbery charge.
In Florida, misdemeanors may be punishable by up to one year in county jail, while felony convictions require at least one year in state prison.
Whether you’re being accused of a misdemeanor or felony, you shouldn’t navigate the Florida justice system alone. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys are ready to protect your rights and your freedom.
Misdemeanors in Florida
Florida law defines a misdemeanor as any criminal offense punishable by imprisonment in a county correctional facility for no more than one year.
Many misdemeanors may result in a suspended jail sentence with probation and fines in lieu of jail time.
Certain misdemeanor charges, such as a DUI or other traffic charges like reckless driving, may also result in a license suspension.
State law further categorizes misdemeanors as first- and second-degree offenses. First-degree offenses are more serious than second-degree offenses.
First-degree misdemeanors
Penalties for the crimes listed below include a jail sentence of up to one year and a fine of up to $1,000.
Please note, this is not a full list of first-degree misdemeanors.
- Battery
- Cruelty to animals
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Violating a restraining or protection order
- Cyberstalking
Second-degree misdemeanors
Penalties for the crimes listed below include a jail sentence of up to 60 days and a fine of up to $500.
Please note, this is not a full list of second-degree misdemeanors.
- Assault
- Prostitution
- Petty theft
- Disorderly intoxication
Felonies in Florida
State law defines a felony as any criminal offense punishable by death or imprisonment in a state facility.
Similar to misdemeanors, there are different classes of felonies based on the severity of the offense. As the severity of the class increases, so does the punishment.
Here’s a breakdown of some common felonies we’ve defended our clients against, as well as the maximum prison term and fines that may be issued during sentencing.
| Felony class | Charge | Maximum prison sentence | Maximum fine |
| Third-degree felony | Aggravated assault
Child abuse Grand theft (less than $20,000) Possession of a controlled substance |
5 years | $5,000 |
| Second-degree felony | DUI manslaughter
Burglary of a dwelling Sale of cocaine Sexual battery Grand theft (less than $100,000) |
15 years | $10,000 |
| First-degree felony | Aggravated child abuse
Drug trafficking Burglary with assault or battery Robbery with a weapon Grand theft (more than $100,000) |
30 years | $10,000 |
| Life or capital felony | Murder
Capital drug trafficking Armed kidnapping Robbery with a firearm Sexual battery (when the victim is under 12 and the perpetrator is 18 or older) |
Life sentence or
death penalty |
$15,000 |
Don’t assume you’re out of options if you were charged with any of the crimes listed above.
In many instances, a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Orlando can get a felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor, which can help reduce the fines you owe and the amount of time you could spend in jail.
Life-altering consequences of felony and misdemeanor convictions
Aside from spending time in jail or prison, a misdemeanor or felony conviction can have a ripple effect on your life.
A conviction could affect your reputation in your community, hinder your employment opportunities, and might even impact your ability to be approved for housing.
Depending on your conviction, you may not be able to get a job in:
- Finance and banking
- Education, or any position involving working in a school
- Law enforcement
- Commercial driving
Are you facing felony or misdemeanor charges in Orlando?
If you’ve been charged with a crime, you have the right to legal representation of your choosing. You shouldn’t try to navigate the complex Florida criminal process alone.
Contact Katz & Phillips, P.A. at (321) 425-8961 to schedule a consultation and begin your defense.
Decades of Trusted Service. Hundreds of Grateful Voices.
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“David Katz sets the standard by which all other defense attorney's must measure. He not only knows his craft and has the experience to back it up, he relishes forcing his opponents to follow the law towards the best outcome for his clients.”- Karate K.
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“Christine Vazquez took on our case with a 24hr commitment. She put everything on the line to hold the judicial system accountable.”- Phil W.
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“I can’t thank attorneys Christine Vazquez and David Katz enough for the incredible job they did on my DUI case.”- Gabriel H.
Why Hire Katz & Phillips?
Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:
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Board-Certified* Attorneys
Our founding attorneys are two of three board-certified* DUI defense lawyers in the state.
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Former Prosecution Experience
As former prosecutors, we bring an invaluable perspective and skillset to every case.
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High Success Rate in Criminal Defense
With a 90%+ success rate, our proven track record of success speaks for itself.
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Decades of Experience
With more than 10,000 cases handled, our advocates are well versed in criminal law to help you navigate your case with care and efficiency.
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Always Responsive
Our team is available to take your call and address any questions or concerns you have.
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Financing Available
The last thing you need during a criminal case is financial stress. Our firm offers financing with no credit check required.
Meet Your Dedicated Defense Team
Led by two of Florida's Board-Certified* DUI Experts, Our attorneys bring together more than 50 years of success, defending clients across Florida against criminal and DUI charges.
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DUI Charges Reduced
The court deemed all other conditions satisfied so M.A. did not have to go on probation at all and walked out of courthouse with a fine and fees to pay, and the case behind her.
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Case Dismissed
J.A.R. had had a previous DUI conviction and was facing mandatory jail time if convicted of this offense. In reviewing the discovery provided by the state, our team found several issues with the police investigation, and realized that our clients’ rights had been violated.
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All Charges Dropped
In reviewing the evidence provided by the State our team realized that T.R.’s rights had been violated when she was immediately illegally arrested by the Trooper. Further, there were many other errors made by the Trooper which would result in the evidence gathered being suppressed.
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All Charges Dropped
In this case, our client, R.H., was out with friends. A family member who was angry with him tracked his location by tracking his cell phone, called the police, told them he was very drunk, and led the police right to his car. The officers stopped his car and eventually arrested him.
Our Case Results
Two of Florida’s only Board-Certified* DUI Defense experts fighting for you.
- DUI Charges Reduced
- Case Dismissed
- All Charges Dropped
- All Charges Dropped
