Fort Myers Misdemeanors Lawyer
Being charged with a crime poses, at best, a disruption to your life and your plans for the future. At worst, criminal charges threaten your freedom and could have a negative impact on your financial security. No matter how minor a criminal charge may seem, it is important to address it head-on with the help of a skilled misdemeanor defense attorney.
When you contact the Lee Viacava Law Firm you’ll find a legal advocate who brings more than 17 years of experience in criminal defense to your case. Fort Myers misdemeanor attorney Lee Viacava is ready to help you fight or otherwise resolve your misdemeanor charge as efficiently as possible while minimizing the direct and collateral consequences the charges bring.
Why You Need To Take Misdemeanor Charges Seriously
While the sentencing guidelines are certainly lighter than they would be for a felony conviction, they are nonetheless serious and can include jail time and fines. You should also consider the noncriminal consequences as well. Working with a skilled and tenacious attorney like Lee Viacava is an important investment in your future. He can help you resolve your charges in the most favorable manner available.
Answering Frequently Asked Questions About Misdemeanor Charges
People accused of a crime often have questions about how these charges could impact their lives. Lee Viacava has the experience and knowledge necessary to provide truthful and honest answers.
What’s the difference between first- and second-degree misdemeanors?
There are perhaps hundreds of crimes that can result in misdemeanor charges. Misdemeanors are classified as either first-degree or second-degree, with first-degree being the most serious. A first-degree misdemeanor is punishable up to a year in jail and/or probation among other penalties where a second-degree misdemeanor is punishable up to sixty days in jail and/or six months of probation (some exceptions apply) among other penalties.
Some of the most common second-degree misdemeanors include:
- Assault
- Criminal mischief
- Culpable negligence
- Disorderly intoxication
- Disorderly conduct
- Driving under the influence (exception)
- Gambling
- Loitering or prowling
- Petit theft, first offense
- Prostitution, first offense
- Probation violations
- Public nuisance
- Reckless driving
- Trespass in structure or conveyance
- Unnatural and lascivious act
- Breach of peace
- Ordinance violations
Some of the most common first-degree misdemeanors include:
- Battery
- DUI (with .15% blood alcohol content or above, 2nd or more DUI, property damage or a minor in the vehicle)
- Carrying a concealed weapon
- Criminal mischief (damages between $200 and $1,000)
- Cruelty to animals
- Discharging a firearm in public
- Domestic violence battery
- Indecent exposure or exposure of a sexual organ
- Obstruction by disguised person
- Obtaining property in exchange for a worthless check
- Petit theft, second offense, or first offense with value of between $100 and $300
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of marijuana (not more than 20 grams)
- Probation violations
- Resisting without violence
- Trespass on property other than structure or conveyance
Because some charges may be first- or second-degree misdemeanors, the level of charges that you face often depends on the details of your situation.
What type of sentence can I expect from a misdemeanor?
The penalties vary based on your specific facts and the lawyer you choose to hire, Mr. Viacava has the experience and dedication to get you the best possible resolution. He will address concerns like addiction, mental health to name a few when helping his clients resolve their legal matters.
How long does a misdemeanor last?
Florida criminal cases may take several months if not longer to resolve properly. However, the choices you make when facing charges can directly impact the amount of time it takes to properly handle a misdemeanor charge. One important step that you can take is speaking to an experienced attorney like Mr. Viacava who can help you navigate the legal process with greater confidence and reach a resolution sooner.
Contact The Firm To Discuss Your Legal Options
The Lee Viacava Law Firm is based in Fort Myers and serves clients throughout southwest Florida and Cape Coral. For a better understanding of your criminal charges and your options for resolving them, contact the firm to arrange your initial consultation with a highly experienced misdemeanor lawyer. Simply call 239-672-8934 or send an email through the online contact form.
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