Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors in Florida: Degrees, Penalties, and What to Expect in County Court
How Florida defines a misdemeanor, the maximum jail term and fine for each degree, how a case moves through county court, and…
Topic
Misdemeanors
First- and second-degree misdemeanors, county court, and what a charge can mean.
A misdemeanor in Florida is a crime punishable by up to one year in a county jail. A second-degree misdemeanor carries up to 60 days and a $500 fine. A first-degree misdemeanor carries up to one year and a $1,000 fine. Misdemeanors are handled in county court. Some offenses that are usually misdemeanors, such as battery or petit theft, become felonies when the person has prior convictions.
Guides
Key terms
- Misdemeanor
- A crime punishable by a term in a county jail of not more than one year. Florida has two levels: second degree (up to 60 days) and first…
Official resources
Government and bar sources for checking the current law and procedures.
- Florida StatutesThe Florida Senate (opens in a new tab)
- Florida Rules of Criminal ProcedureThe Florida Bar (opens in a new tab)
- Florida CourtsFlorida State Courts System (opens in a new tab)
- Seal and Expunge ProcessFlorida Department of Law Enforcement (opens in a new tab)
- Driver licenses and suspensionsFlorida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (opens in a new tab)
- Lawyer Referral ServiceThe Florida Bar (opens in a new tab)