St. Petersburg Misdemeanor Lawyer

In St. Petersburg, some of the most common misdemeanor charges include petty theft, DUI, disorderly conduct, simple battery, and possession of marijuana under 20 grams. While these offenses may seem minor, they can still lead to serious penalties such as jail time, probation, and fines. A misdemeanor conviction can also stay on your record and impact your future.

At Lopez Law Group, our experienced legal team knows how to handle these charges effectively. As a trusted St. Petersburg misdemeanor lawyer, we carefully review the evidence, challenge any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build a strong defense tailored to your situation. Whether we fight for a dismissal, reduced charges, or a favorable plea deal, our goal is always to protect your rights and your future. If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge, contact Lopez Law Group today for skilled, trusted legal help.

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St. Petersburg Misdemeanor Guide

• Why Choose Us?
• Common Misdemeanor Charges in St. Petersburg
• Potential Penalties for a Misdemeanor Conviction in St. Petersburg
• Collateral Consequences of a St. Petersburg Misdemeanor Conviction
• Best Legal Defenses to a Misdemeanor Charge in St. Petersburg
• How We Can Handle Your St. Petersburg Misdemeanor Case for You
• Most Important Steps to Take if You’re Arrested on a Misdemeanor Charge in St. Petersburg
• Contact an Experienced St. Petersburg Misdemeanor Lawyer Today

Why Choose Us?

At Lopez Law Group, we understand that facing a misdemeanor charge in St. Petersburg can be overwhelming. Whether you’ve been charged with petty theft, DUI, disorderly conduct, simple battery, or marijuana possession, we treat every client as an individual, not just another case number. Our experienced defense lawyers take the time to understand your unique situation, carefully review the facts, and build a personalized defense strategy designed to get you the best possible outcome.

With a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to justice, we fight hard to protect your rights at every stage of the legal process. Our determination to stand by your side and guide you through each step sets us apart. If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge, trust Lopez Law Group to give your case the attention and dedication it deserves.

You can see our most recent client reviews and case testimonials on this site. Our office is conveniently located at 700 7th Ave N, Suite A, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.

Common Misdemeanor Charges in St. Petersburg

In St. Petersburg, Florida, many people face misdemeanor charges each year. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, but they can still lead to serious consequences like jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Some of the most common misdemeanor charges in St. Petersburg include petty theft, disorderly conduct, possession of marijuana, driving under the influence (DUI), and simple battery.

• Petty theft usually involves stealing items worth less than $750. This can include shoplifting from stores or taking someone’s personal property. 

• Disorderly conduct includes acts like public fighting, disturbing the peace, or being drunk in public and causing a scene. It’s often charged when someone is acting out in public in a way that upsets or threatens others. While it may seem like a minor offense, it can still result in jail time and a mark on your record.

• Possession of marijuana under 20 grams is also a common misdemeanor. Although laws have changed in some places, marijuana possession is still illegal in many parts of Florida. 

• DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is another frequently charged misdemeanor. If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or higher, you can be arrested and charged. 

• Simple battery involves unwanted physical contact, like pushing, hitting, or grabbing someone without causing serious injury. Even though no serious harm occurs, the charge is taken seriously, especially if the victim is a family member or partner.

Being charged with a misdemeanor in St. Petersburg can affect your job, education, and reputation.

Potential Penalties for a Misdemeanor Conviction in St. Petersburg

If you are convicted of a misdemeanor in St. Petersburg, Florida, the penalties you face will depend on the type of misdemeanor and the facts of your case. Misdemeanors are classified as either first-degree or second-degree, and each level comes with different possible punishments.

A first-degree misdemeanor is the more serious type. Examples include DUI, domestic battery, and petty theft (when the value is closer to the legal limit). If you are convicted of a first-degree misdemeanor, you can face up to one year in jail, 12 months of probation, and a fine of up to $1,000. The judge may also order community service, counseling, or other court-approved programs, depending on the nature of the offense.

A second-degree misdemeanor is less serious but still has consequences. Common second-degree misdemeanors include disorderly conduct, trespassing, and driving with a suspended license (first offense). For these charges, the maximum penalty is 60 days in jail, 6 months of probation, and a fine of up to $500.

Sometimes, instead of going to jail, the court may sentence you to probation. While on probation, you must follow strict rules, such as meeting with a probation officer, staying away from certain people or places, and avoiding new arrests. Failing to follow the rules of probation could lead to more serious penalties, including jail time.

For many misdemeanor charges, especially first offenses, the court may offer diversion programs. These programs allow you to complete certain requirements, like classes or community service, in exchange for having your charges dropped or reduced. However, these programs are not available in all cases and depend on the facts of your situation.

If you go to trial and are found guilty, or if you plead guilty or no contest, the judge will decide your punishment at a sentencing hearing. The judge will consider things like your criminal record, the harm caused by the offense, and your behavior in court.

Even though misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, the legal penalties can still affect your life in major ways.

Collateral Consequences of a St. Petersburg Misdemeanor Conviction 

A misdemeanor conviction in St. Petersburg, Florida, doesn’t just come with legal penalties like jail time, probation, or fines. It can also lead to collateral consequences, which are long-term effects that go beyond the courtroom. These consequences can impact your everyday life in serious and lasting ways.

• One of the biggest collateral consequences is difficulty finding a job. Many employers run background checks and may choose not to hire someone with a criminal record, even if the offense was only a misdemeanor. Jobs that involve working with children, handling money, or dealing with sensitive information are especially strict about criminal histories.

• A misdemeanor conviction can also affect housing opportunities. Landlords often do background checks on potential tenants. A criminal record, especially one involving theft, drugs, or violence, can make it harder to rent an apartment or get approved for housing assistance.

• If you are a student, a conviction might affect your ability to receive financial aid or stay in school. Some colleges have rules about criminal behavior, and certain offenses could lead to suspension or removal from campus housing.

• A misdemeanor may also create problems for your driver’s license. For example, if your conviction involves DUI or drug charges, your license could be suspended or revoked. That makes it harder to get to work, attend school, or take care of your family.

• If you are not a U.S. citizen, a misdemeanor conviction could affect your immigration status. Some crimes, even misdemeanors, can lead to deportation or make it harder to become a citizen or get a visa.

• Certain convictions, like domestic violence, can also cause you to lose your right to own or carry a firearm, even if the charge was not a felony.

• Finally, a misdemeanor conviction becomes part of your permanent criminal record. That means it could follow you for years, even if you never get in trouble again.

Because of these serious consequences, it’s important to take any misdemeanor charge seriously.

How We Can Handle Your St. Petersburg Misdemeanor Case for You

If you are facing a misdemeanor charge in St. Petersburg, the defense attorneys at Lopez Law Group are here to help. We understand how stressful and confusing it can be to deal with the criminal justice system. Even though misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they can still lead to jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Our experienced lawyers are ready to guide you through every step of your case and fight for the best possible outcome.

When you hire us, we begin by carefully reviewing the details of your arrest, the police report, and the evidence against you. We look for any mistakes made by law enforcement, such as illegal searches or violations of your rights. If we find problems with how the case was handled, we can use that information to challenge the charges.

Next, we build a strong legal defense tailored to your situation. Whether it’s showing you were falsely accused, demonstrating that you acted in self-defense, or arguing that the prosecution lacks enough evidence, we work hard to protect your rights. Our goal is to get the charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible.

We also handle all communication with the court, the prosecutor, and the police so that you don’t have to face it alone. If a plea deal is in your best interest, we will negotiate for the most favorable terms. If your case goes to trial, we will stand by your side and fight for a not guilty verdict.

At Lopez Law Group, we know that every case is different, and we treat every client with respect and care. We take the time to explain your options and answer your questions clearly. You don’t have to go through this process alone—our attorneys are ready to defend you and help you move forward with your life.

Most Important Steps to Take if You’re Arrested on a Misdemeanor Charge in St. Petersburg

If you are arrested on a misdemeanor charge in St. Petersburg, it’s important to stay calm and take the right steps to protect your rights. What you do next can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.

First, do not resist arrest, even if you believe the charge is unfair. Resisting can lead to additional charges. Stay respectful and cooperate with the officers, but remember that you have the right to remain silent. Do not answer questions about the incident or your actions without one of our lawyers present.

Second, ask to speak with an attorney right away. You should call the experienced legal team at Lopez Law Group as soon as possible. We can help you understand the charges, explain what to expect, and start building a strong defense.

Next, write down everything you remember about the arrest, including the names of any witnesses, what the officers said or did, and where the incident took place. This information can be helpful for your defense.

Finally, follow all court instructions and attend every hearing. Missing a court date can lead to more legal trouble.

The sooner you contact Lopez Law Group, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and working toward the best outcome for your misdemeanor case.

Contact an Experienced St. Petersburg Misdemeanor Lawyer Today

At Lopez Law Group, our attorneys will aggressively advocate for your interests and pursue a favorable result.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney, please call us at (727) 933-0015 or contact us online.

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Lopez Law Group – St. Petersburg Office

Address: 700 7th Ave N, Suite A, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Contact No: 866-530-7411