TAMPA MISDEMEANOR ATTORNEY
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney for Misdemeanor Offenses
Criminal charges of all kinds are taken very seriously in the state of Florida. Although misdemeanors are not as serious as felonies, they can still have serious consequences and leave a permanent mark on your criminal record. That is why you need to fight back with the help of a competent and dedicated Tampa misdemeanor attorney.
In your time of need, turn to Buda Law where you can work with a Tampa misdemeanor defense attorney who has the criminal law experience, knowledge, and determination you need. Attorney Andrew Buda worked as a Pinellas County prosecutor for many years, which means he thoroughly understands how prosecutors think and operate to achieve a criminal conviction. That knowledge and experience can only work to your benefit in strategizing your defense.
Facing misdemeanor charges? Call an experienced criminal defense lawyer at Buda Law today at 813-322-2832 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation.
Facing misdemeanor charges? Call Buda Law at 813-322-2832 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation.
What is a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor charge is a type of criminal offense that is considered less serious than a felony charge in Florida. Whereas felony offenses have serious penalties and typically long prison sentences, a misdemeanor conviction may result in jail time of less than a year, fines, probation, and other penalties ordered by the court.
If convicted, you will also face collateral damage, such as a permanent criminal record that can make it difficult to get a job, rent a home, be approved for a loan, and obtain a professional license. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer like those at Buda Law can help protect your legal rights while working to avoid or minimize the penalties you face for a conviction of a misdemeanor offense.
Examples of Misdemeanor Offenses in Tampa
Examples of misdemeanors in Florida include:
- Simple assault
- Battery
- DUI
- Driving on a suspended license
- Disorderly conduct
- Certain indecent exposure charges
- Domestic violence
- Simple possession of marijuana
- Prostitution
- Small theft crimes, such as shoplifting and petit theft
- Vandalism
- Providing alcohol to a minor
At Buda Law, our Florida Lawyers have handled all kinds of misdemeanor criminal offenses. If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor crime, give us a call today to see what we can do for you.
Examples of Felony Offenses in Florida
More serious crimes, such as violent crimes, drug crimes, and white-collar crimes are considered felonies in Florida. Below are some of the common criminal offenses that may be charged as a felony:
- Felony DUI
- DUI manslaughter
- Murder
- Aggravated assault
- Aggravated battery
- Drug charges such as drug trafficking and distribution
- Grand theft
- White-collar crimes such as embezzlement and extortion
- Sex crimes, such as sexual battery and child pornography
- Child abuse
- Kidnapping
- Robbery (both unarmed robbery and armed robbery)
- Burglary
- Aggravated domestic violence crimes
Common Penalties for Misdemeanors in Tampa, Florida
Under Florida law, misdemeanors are categorized as either first-degree or second-degree crimes. First-degree misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of up to one year in county jail and/or fines up to $1,000. Florida second-degree misdemeanors are punishable by up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. Some convictions may be eligible for community service instead of jail time and fines.
Aside from the criminal penalties that accompany misdemeanor charges, a conviction can also affect future opportunities such as such as obtaining a job, renting a home, being approved for a loan, or even obtaining a professional license. If accused or charged with such a crime, you need help from an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney to help mitigate the effects of a misdemeanor criminal conviction.
Why Do You Need a Tampa Criminal Defense Lawyer for Misdemeanors?
Criminal mischief, DUI, carrying a concealed weapon–whatever the charges may be–committing or being accused of crimes like these can land you in a lot of hot water. Misdemeanors may not be considered capital crimes in Florida, but can still land you some hefty fines or even jail time. That’s where our Tampa criminal defense attorneys come in.
Even though every case is different, you can count on the experienced attorneys at Buda Law to put a lot of effort, time, and study into your defense. We will advise you throughout the entire process, from your arrest and beyond. This might entail providing legal advice and instruction, looking into the alleged offense and acquiring proof, representing you at trial, or otherwise doing whatever it takes to avoid a criminal conviction. If a conviction cannot be avoided, we can advise you on a potential plea bargain and work to lessen your sentence, possibly securing probation or community service as opposed to jail time and fines. Our criminal defense law firm has handled virtually every type of misdemeanor crime in the Tampa Bay Area, meaning we know what it takes to secure the best possible outcome on your behalf.
How Our Tampa Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help With Misdemeanor Charges
Attorney Andrew Buda has a wealth of experience handling criminal cases in the Tampa area, having appeared as both a former prosecutor and on the defense sides of Tampa courtrooms. He knows the ins and outs of the Florida legal system, spending his time thoroughly examining the circumstances of your arrest and developing a strong defense that can survive the case the state prosecutors have made against you. Attorney Buda makes sure that every client receives the time and personal attention they require for the best possible defense in every case he and his team of Tampa criminal lawyers take on.
Experienced Tampa, FL Criminal Defense Attorneys for Misdemeanor Charges
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, you may be anxious and concerned about how the criminal case will play out and how the charges may affect your future. This is especially true if you have never been in trouble with the law before. At Buda Law, you will find an advocate who can support you through this difficult time. A Florida criminal defense lawyer at our firm will fight to have your case dismissed, get your charges reduced, or lighten your sentence depending on the circumstances of your case. If you are facing criminal charges for a misdemeanor, reach out to an experienced attorney at our firm at 813-322-2832 today.
Criminal law is not the only legal issue we handle at Buda Law – we also handle personal injury and car accident claims for clients injured in and around Tampa, FL. Call a criminal lawyer or personal injury attorney at our law firm today for a free initial consultation.
REVIEWS
See What Our Clients Have to Say About Working With Us
He has connections and relationships with the court systems, which are crucial in negotiations.
He’s definitely a good choice if you want professional representation. I called him a day before my court date he was on time and fully prepared and he worked with me financially as well. He has lots of information that is beneficial towards my case, helping to calm my nerves and also has connections and relationships with the court systems, which are crucial in negotiations in any case. I highly recommend Buddha law to anyone in need of a defense attorney.
– Former Client
His knowledge and experience exceeded my expectations.
Professional and excellent council. He made me feel like I was his only client. Very responsive to my needs and concerns. I highly recommend for your legal needs. His knowledge and experience exceeded my expectations.
– Damond
Life Saver!
Amazing attorney. Always available and very compassionate! Andrew’s name came to us through word of mouth from an individual who stated he saved his life, so far looks like he’s doing the same for us! Highly recommended.
– Shannon
Professional, honest, a straight talker, very responsive, good communication and was extremely efficient.
Andrew Buda was professional, honest, a straight talker, very responsive, good communication and was extremely efficient in representing my case turning a stressful case that resulted in a very favorable outcome. Would highly recommend!
– Cathi
Andrew got the charges dropped even before it could go to trial.
Mr. Andrew is one of the best lawyers you can find in the Tampa Bay Area. He is not gonna give you false promises, and he will get the job done. I have been to many lawyers before hiring him for my case. The other lawyers told me of the case going to trial and what not but Mr. Andrew got the charges dropped even before it could go to trial. The best thing about him is his ability to connect to his clients and connect with them in a personal level. For him it’s not simply a job, it is his passion to help people. He gave me discount as I was going through some hardships. I recommend him very strongly. He is a man of words and he’s also a role model for others to look up to.
– Habibur
They treated me as a person, not just a case number.
I had an exceptional experience with Buda Law Group. This group absolutely has the high-level of expertise and dedication required to assist you with your case. The attorneys stayed engaged and I valued their proactive communication. Recommendations were made for actions I could take to help with the final outcome. They treated me as a person, not just a case number. From the beginning to the end, I was treated with respect and genuine empathy, especially when navigating a complicated case.
– Mary
Their entire team seem to truly care about their clients.
My entire experience with Buda Law was absolutely 5 stars! After sending them a message on their website, within minutes I received a phone call from Attorney Julie Adue. Julie is absolutely phenomenal, was with me every step of the way, and answered all my questions throughout the process. Her knowledge and empathy really helped put my mind at ease, and have full confidence in who I chose to represent me. There was even a time I called the office and asked for Julie, and her paralegal, also named Julie was always so helpful! Highly recommend Buda Law overall, their entire team seems to truly care about their clients which isn’t always easy to come by!
– Alexa
He’s an outstanding lawyer and he’s passionate about helping those in need.
Thanks to Andrew my mom was able to get out a week before my wedding!! He’s an outstanding lawyer and he’s passionate about helping those in need. If I had to recommend someone an amazing lawyer it would be Andrew Buda best there is and best there’ll ever be. I appreciate what you did in the 2 days you had to collect the information and to win the case. Keep up the great work you are doing. From me and my family we thank you for ever!
– Abraham
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WHAT MAKES OUR DEFENSE SO EFFECTIVE?
- Former State Prosecutor
- Highly Responsive & Accessible
- Result-Oriented Advocacy
- We Prepare Every Case as if it's Going to Trial
- Personal Representation Centered Around You
- Exceptional Negotiator