Naples Misdemeanor Lawyer

Naples Misdemeanor Attorney

Facing criminal accusations can be a stressful situation, with a conviction holding lasting consequences on your life. If you have been charged with a crime, a Naples misdemeanor lawyer can represent your case. They can be at your side from the initial arrest to the final court verdict.

About Us

The Law Office of Donald P. Day has spent years representing the people of Naples, Marco Island, Ave Maria, and cities throughout Southwestern Florida in their misdemeanor law matters. Our team has six decades of combined experience, handling cases ranging from DUIs to homicide charges. Founder Donald P. Day was a prosecutor with Broward and Collier County’s State Attorney’s offices before opening his own firm.

Overview of Misdemeanor Cases in Florida

Misdemeanors are some of the most common types of criminal cases in Florida. In Fiscal Year 2022-2023, 206,817 misdemeanor cases were filed statewide, with 3,595 processed in Collier County. The vast majority of cases were settled before trial, accounting for 192,873.

Misdemeanor cases in Naples are handled through the criminal/misdemeanor division of the Collier County Court, located at 3315 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 102, Naples, FL 34112.

Types of Florida Misdemeanor Charges and Penalties

Misdemeanor laws cover a wide range of minor criminal offenses. Florida state law classifies charges as either second-degree or first-degree. Second-degree misdemeanors are the lesser form. Examples include:

• Disorderly conduct
• Trespassing
• Non-violent vandalism with damages under $200
• Public urination

The standard maximum misdemeanor penalties for these cases are 60 days in county jail and a $500 fine.

First-degree charges are the most serious type of misdemeanor before reaching felony level. The higher severity leads to a maximum of one year imprisonment and fines up to $1,000. First-degree cases include:

• Simple assault
• Battery with minor injury
• Petit theft of property worth between $100 and $750
• First-time DUI
• Some domestic violence matters

Some cases carry mandatory minimums, such as 10 days in county jail for a first domestic violence offense.

Hire a Misdemeanor Lawyer

Being accused of any crime can be an overwhelming and confusing experience. While you may represent yourself, the potential for a lasting criminal conviction on your record makes it essential to hire a misdemeanor lawyer. Your Naples misdemeanor attorney can advocate for you at each stage of your case. A few key services our team at the Law Office of Donald P. Day can provide include:

• Review your case. When you receive a citation or are arrested, you may not understand what the accusations against you entail. Your lawyer can review the charges against you, explain your rights, and define the penalties you face.
• Build a strategy. The optimal defense against a misdemeanor changes on a case-by-case basis. Examples of strong strategies include challenging the evidence against you, highlighting procedural errors, or providing an alibi. We can advise you on what path may fit your scenario.
• Representation. You should never speak to the police or prosecution without a lawyer present, as even minor comments can be used against you. Experienced legal counsel can defend you against manipulation. An attorney can also represent you in all hearings related to your case, both in and out of the courtroom.
• Negotiate a suitable plea bargain. If you feel guilty or a conviction seems likely, the Law Office of Donald P. Day can negotiate a plea bargain that lessens the case’s impact on your life. Plea deals can shorten jail sentences, turn imprisonment into probation, reduce the charge that appears on your record, and offer diversion programs.

FAQs

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost for a Misdemeanor Case in Florida?

How much your Florida misdemeanor lawyer costs depends on the type of charges you face, their complexities, and the workload it entails. A first-time offender accused of minor vandalism typically pays less than someone facing a simple battery with previous convictions, which requires a trial.

Another determining factor is the pricing model, with different firms using flat fees, hourly rates, and retainer expenses. During your consultation, we can provide an estimate for your final legal bill.

Can a Misdemeanor Be Dismissed in Florida?

In Florida, your misdemeanor case may be dismissed based on the details of your situation. Typically, a first-time nonviolent misdemeanor has better chances than a first-degree battery charge with prior convictions. In 2023, 32,074 charges were dismissed before reaching trial. This does not include plea bargains, which accounted for 98,092 charges. Ask your misdemeanor attorney about whether a dismissal may be possible in your case.

What Should You Consider When Hiring a Florida Misdemeanor Attorney?

There are many factors you should consider when hiring a Florida misdemeanor attorney. First, ask if they have experience with misdemeanor cases. Your legal counsel should have a proven success record against similar charges. Second, your attorney should be a clear communicator. They should be transparent about results, never guarantee anything, and explain their process thoroughly.

How Long Does a Misdemeanor Case Take in Naples, FL?

How long it takes for your misdemeanor case to resolve in Collier County courts changes, depending on:

• Its complexity
• Whether it’s a second-degree or first-degree charge
• The evidence involved

A second-degree citation can take a few months to achieve a dismissal or plea bargain, while a first-degree matter that goes to trial can take half a year or longer. Your legal counsel can provide a general timeline for your specific situation.

Speak With a Naples Misdemeanor Attorney Today

Our team at the Law Office of Donald P. Day understands how frightening it can be to face a misdemeanor charge. Our firm’s decades of legal experience, knowledge, and skill can make a positive impact on the result. We can help you through this difficult time.

Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation. In this meeting, we can learn your story, discuss the details of your case, and explore potential legal strategies for your case. You may also visit our Naples office, located on Tamiami Trail East, down the street from the Collier County Government Center, and a few blocks north of Lake Avalon.