What is the difference between a felony and misdemeanor charge? In Florida there can be some serious differences in your outcome based on whether you’re charged with a felony or a misdemeanor.
A misdemeanor charge carries, at maximum, 1 year in jail and a $1000 fine. Second degree misdemeanors carry up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. (DUIs are a hybrid and require a knowledgeable attorney like Dunham and Ingram to make sure they are handled correctly.)
A felony charge can carry from 5 years in prison to life in prison. The fines are much higher as well. Plus, becoming a felon can affect your right to vote, to carry a firearm, to live in section 8 housing, and so much more.
Your record generally follows you for the rest of your life. It is accessible to law enforcement even after a lengthy period of time. However, becoming a convicted felon has consequences that affect your every day – consequences from which you may not recover.
Make sure that you hire the right legal representation. Attorneys like Andy Ingram and Chris Dunham – who understand your rights and the possible outcomes and will make sure that you do too.