Given that misdemeanor charges are considered less serious crimes than felonies, some individuals may choose to take their chances without the help of a lawyer.
Unfortunately, as a result, some people may end up carrying burdens that could have been eased, or even avoided altogether, if they had hired a lawyer from the start. When charged with a misdemeanor—whether first or second degree—working with a lawyer can be highly beneficial. Consider the following three reasons why you should hire a lawyer for misdemeanor charges in Florida.
3 Reasons to Hire a Lawyer for Misdemeanor Charges
Both first and second-degree misdemeanors have the potential for negative consequences. First-degree misdemeanor charges—the more serious of the two—can result from allegations that may include disorderly conduct and domestic violence to shoplifting and vandalism. While second-degree misdemeanor charges can result from allegations that may include assault or driving on a suspended license. Have you been charged with these or other misdemeanors, such as battery or driving under the influence (DUI)? If so, here is why you should hire a lawyer.
#1 Pleading Guilty Is Not Your Only Option
If you plead guilty without a lawyer on your side, you may miss out on your chance to defend yourself and challenge the charges against you. This essentially gives the prosecution and the judge the freedom to seek the maximum penalties, such as:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Probation
- Driver’s license suspension
- Up to a year of jail time
Such penalties could be avoided or minimized, though, if you have a lawyer who is dedicated to thoroughly investigate your arrest and collect evidence with which to build a well-thought-out defense strategy for you.
#2 Private Lawyers May Be Better Equipped Than Public Defenders
The goal of both a private defense attorney and a public defender is to get you the best possible outcome for your case. However, public defenders often face several challenges that make it difficult for them to achieve that goal because their offices are often underfunded, swamped with cases, understaffed, or staffed with new, inexperienced attorneys.
The outcome of your case will have a significant impact on your life. That is why hiring a private defense attorney, who likely has more time, resources, and experience needed to assist you, is in your best interest.
#3 Consequences Can Compound
Besides fines, community service, and other penalties that may be imposed by the criminal court, the consequences of a conviction can also affect other areas of your life.
For example, you may become ineligible for certain jobs or find it difficult to obtain employment, housing, schooling, etc. due to being convicted. Depending on what you are convicted for, you may even lose certain civil rights.
Challenging Misdemeanor Charges in Florida
Working with a lawyer to defend yourself against misdemeanor charges may shield you from receiving the maximum penalties, reduce the possibility of conviction, and limit the negative effects on your life.
If you have been charged with a crime in Florida and need the help of an experienced lawyer, Apfelbaum Law is ready to help. We can assist you with any types of charges, from first-degree misdemeanor traffic charges, to domestic violence battery, to misdemeanor drug charges and more. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
