A Law Firm That Handles Misdemeanors, Felonies, And Violations Of Probation In Gainesville, Florida

In the state of Florida, if you are arrested and charged with a misdemeanor, the legal consequences are as follows:

• A maximum of one year in county jail and up to $1,000.00 in fines for first-degree misdemeanors.
• A maximum of sixty (60) days in jail and up to $500.00 in fines for second-degree misdemeanors.

Similar to a felony offense, misdemeanor penalties can have devastating effects on an individual’s ability to maintain a living, grow in their career and enjoy the freedom to pursue their dreams without a stain on their record.

However, felony offenses are more serious. These criminal acts are punishable by up to life in state prison or even the death penalty. The following chart outlines the type of felony with it’s corresponding maximum prison term and fine. Keep in mind that repeat offenders can be classified as habitual offenders and thus face more severe penalties.

Type of Felony - Maximum Potential Prison - Term Maximum Potential Fine

Capital felony -Death penalty/life imprisonment

Life Felony (after 1995) - Life imprisonment - $15,000

Felony of First Degree - Up to 30 years/life imprisonment in some cases - $10,000

Felony of Second Degree - 15 years - $10,000

Felony of Third Degree - 5 years - $5,000

The attorneys at DeCarlis & Sawyer stand prepared to defend you if you have been charged with any of the following offenses, so call today to discuss your case:

• Underage procession of alcohol
• False Identification
• Identity Theft
• Robbery
• Burglary
• Dealing in Stolen Property
• Mortgage Fraud
• Manslaughter
• Murder

Different from misdemeanors or felony criminal offenses is a violation of probation proceeding. Those already been sentenced to probation have less constitutional protection than those charged with a new offense. Waived rights include:

No statute of limitations
No right to bond whilst awaiting hearing
No right to trial by jury in a violation hearing
Hearsay is admissible
You can be forced to testify against yourself
Guilt beyond a reasonable doubt does not have to be proved.
In cases of violation of probation, it is much easier for the state to prove guilt.

If you have been charged with a criminal offense such as a misdemeanor, felony or violation of probation, don’t gamble with your freedom, contact the Criminal Defense Lawyers of The Law Firm of DeCarlis & Sawyer at 352-371-3838 or at decarlisandsawyercriminallaw.com.

A Criminal Defense Law Firm In Gainesville, Florida

The attorney you select makes the difference when winning your case means everything. With over 50 years of trial experience, the lawyers at DeCarlis & Sawyer are not afraid to go to bat for you. We are a full-service litigation law firm representing everything including criminal defense, personal injury, business litigation, medical malpractice and wrongful death cases. In most circumstances, you are not changed unless we win your case. Call us today to set up a free consultation.

The Biased Justice System Needs Reform In Florida

The Biased Justice System Needs Reform

On Thursday, President Obama enacted an initiative to help young men of color get a better start in life. As has been the case in the news as of late, racial divide and racial inequality regarding the justice system has been proven to be biased and unfair towards minority men.

Prison sentencing reform is another issue that will need to be tackled. The President's efforts today are part of a mult- part solution in creating a fair and balanced legal system for all Americans of all ethnicities, religions, and sexual preferences.

Right now, black men are statistically likely to spend time in incarceration at alarming numbers for the same charges as their white peers who were far less penalized for the same offense. The President's speech on Thursday laid out a plan to essentially instill within the black community a sense of self worth and self responsibility. Externally from the black and latino community, serious sentence reform, especially regarding non-violent offenders, needs to be taken on with the same diligence.

If you have been charged with a crime in Gainesville, Florida, contact the Criminal Defense Lawyers of The Law Firm of DeCarlis & Sawyer at 352-371-3838 or atdecarlisandsawyercriminallaw.com.

What Are The Two Types Of Misdemeanors In The State Of Florida?

At one point or another, nearly everyone has committed a minor crime, be it speeding, a parking violation, or maybe shoplifting. Misdemeanors are common criminal infractions that can have major repercussions if not promptly addressed by a dedicated and experienced criminal defense lawyer. If you decide to go it alone, be prepared for an uphill battle.

There are two different types of misdemeanors in Florida. The first type, a "first degree" misdemeanor which is a crime punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. These crimes are far more serious than "second degree" misdemeanors, which are punishable by 60 days in jail.

If you have been recently arrested or charged with any Misdemeanor offense in the State of Florida, accused of Misdemeanor driving under the influence (DUI), have a Misdemeanor warrant for your arrest for failure to appear in court, are facing a Misdemeanor violation of probation or community control, received a Misdemeanor traffic ticket or want to explore the expunging or sealing of your Misdemeanor record, we invite you to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Florida Misdemeanor defense lawyer.

If you or a loved one has been accused of a Misdemeanor offense in Gainesville, Florida, contact the Criminal Defense Lawyers of The Law Firm of DeCarlis & Sawyer at 352-371-3838 or at decarlisandsawyercriminallaw.com.