Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are offenses lower than felonies and generally those punishable by fine, penalty, forfeiture or imprisonment otherwise than in the county jail as opposed to the state prison. In Florida, a misdemeanor is defined as “any criminal offense that is punishable under the laws of this state, or that would be punishable if committed in this state, by a term of imprisonment in a county correctional facility, except an extended term, not in excess of 1 year. The term ‘misdemeanor’ shall not mean a conviction for any non-criminal traffic violation of any provision of chapter 316 or any municipal or county ordinance.”

There are two classifications of misdemeanors in Florida and the maximum sentences and fines as follows: