Misdemeanor Criminal Defense Lawyer in Miami

Facing A Misdemeanor Charge In Miami? Attorney Hernandez is Ready to Fight For You

If you were recently arrested or given a notice to appear for a misdemeanor in Miami, it can feel like your entire future is suddenly uncertain. You may be worried about the court, your job, your immigration status, and whether this will stay on your record. You do not have to navigate this alone. Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A. is here to guide you through what comes next.

Our firm focuses on criminal defense work, including a wide range of misdemeanor charges handled in county court. Even though misdemeanors are legally less serious than felonies, they can still bring jail, probation, fines, and long-term consequences if they are not handled carefully. Working with a misdemeanor attorney in Miami early in the process can make a real difference in how your case is managed.

As a dedicated misdemeanor attorney in Miami, our firm frequently handles a wide variety of cases, including:

• DUI and other alcohol-related misdemeanors
• Petit theft and shoplifting accusations
• Simple battery and certain domestic-related offenses
• Disorderly conduct or disorderly intoxication
• Resisting an officer without violence
• Trespass and criminal mischief
• Driving while a license is suspended

Get the defense of a firm with +20 years of experience. Contact the Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A. for your free initial case review. We are available 24/7 at (305) 400-0074 or through our contact form.

Understanding Misdemeanor Classifications in Florida

Under Florida Statute § 775.08, a misdemeanor is any criminal offense punishable by a term of imprisonment in a county correctional facility not exceeding one year. These charges are heard in the County Court and are divided into two distinct degrees.

First-Degree Misdemeanors

These are the most serious non-felony offenses in Florida. Examples include battery, possession of marijuana (under 20 grams), and first-offense DUI.

• Maximum Jail Time: Up to 1 year in county jail.
• Maximum Probation: Up to 1 year.
• Maximum Fine: $1,000.

Second-Degree Misdemeanors

Less severe but still criminal offenses, such as simple assault, petit theft (under $100), or disorderly conduct.

• Maximum Jail Time: Up to 60 days in county jail.
• Maximum Probation: Up to 6 months.
• Maximum Fine: $500.

Every case is different, and the specific charge, the facts alleged, and your prior record all matter. We review the arrest report, any video or witness statements, and your concerns about work, family, or immigration. When you contact our office for a misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer in Miami, we can discuss what court is likely to handle your charge and what options might be available in your situation.

What To Expect In A Miami Misdemeanor Case

If you were arrested, you may have already seen a judge for an initial appearance where bond or release conditions were addressed. If you received a notice to appear, your first court date is often an arraignment, where the judge formally reads the charge, and you enter a plea. It is usually better to have a lawyer in place before this hearing, so you do not feel pressured to make decisions without legal advice.

After an arraignment, many cases move into a pretrial phase that can include several settings. During this time, our lawyers typically obtain discovery, which can involve police reports and other materials the State Attorney’s Office plans to rely on.

If a case does not resolve in the pretrial phase, it may be set for trial. Trials on misdemeanors still carry significant consequences, so we take preparation seriously. Our team explains the pros and cons of proceeding to trial versus accepting any outstanding offer, and we answer your questions in straightforward language.

Right after a misdemeanor arrest or notice to appear, it is helpful to:

• Avoid discussing the facts of your case with anyone other than your lawyer
• Write down what you remember about the incident while it is still fresh
• Gather any documents you received from law enforcement or the court
• Make note of your court date and time so you do not miss it
• Contact a defense firm promptly to review your options before arraignment

Why Work With Our Miami Defense Team

Attorney Armando J. Hernandez previously served as a prosecutor, so he has seen misdemeanor cases from both the State’s side and the defense side. That background helps us anticipate how a case may be charged, how evidence might be presented, and what could influence a plea offer or diversion opportunity. We draw on decades of Florida criminal practice when we evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the accusations against you.

Because we are a boutique criminal defense firm, we are intentional about how many cases we accept at one time. Our goal is to ensure that each client receives personal attention, not just brief contact on court days. We keep clients updated about upcoming hearings, explain what to expect before each appearance, and answer questions as they arise. Many clients tell us that this steady communication helps reduce some of the stress they feel about the process.

Our work in criminal defense has been recognized by respected legal organizations, including The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers and America’s Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys®. These honors reflect our ongoing commitment to high-quality representation in misdemeanor and felony cases. They also provide an additional layer of reassurance to people who are comparing options and want to know that their lawyer is well-regarded in the legal community.

How We Defend Misdemeanor Cases

Defending a misdemeanor charge requires more than a standard approach—it demands careful review of the evidence, understanding your priorities, and applying knowledge of the criminal system to pursue the best possible outcome. 

At our firm, we treat each case individually, tailoring strategies to the facts, your goals, and the potential consequences you may face.

Our approach to misdemeanor defense:

• Evidence Review: Examination of arrest reports, surveillance or body camera footage, and witness statements to identify gaps, inconsistencies, or procedural errors.
• Legal Procedure Analysis: Assessing whether stops, arrests, or identifications were lawful and whether evidence can be challenged in court.
• Strategic Case Planning: Considering options such as diversion programs, plea negotiations, or preparing for trial based on the specifics of your case.
• Client Goals & Consequences: Advising with attention to immigration status, professional licenses, employment, and long-term personal objectives.
• Tailored Communication: Adapting updates and guidance to your preferred level of detail and ensuring prompt answers to questions.
• Realistic Counsel: Providing honest assessments of risks, possible outcomes, and the best strategies without making empty promises.

This approach ensures you are informed, supported, and prepared to make the decisions that best protect your rights and future.

Talk To Our Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer in Miami About Your Case

When you reach out to Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A., you will speak with a criminal defense team that focuses its work on helping people accused of crimes. We bring the perspective of a former prosecutor, the focused attention of a boutique firm, and the recognition of respected criminal defense organizations. 

We can meet with you in person or by phone, and we are able to communicate in Spanish if that is more comfortable for you or your family. We are available 24/7 to discuss your situation and to help you understand your options. Do not wait to find out what might have been possible.

Call (305) 400-0074 or reach out online to speak with our team about your misdemeanor case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a misdemeanor stay on my record forever?

A misdemeanor conviction can appear on background checks for many years. In some situations, people may qualify for options such as diversion, dismissal, or sealing and expungement, depending on Florida law and their history. We can review your situation and explain what may be realistic in your case.

Can I go to jail for a first misdemeanor?

Many first misdemeanor charges carry the possibility of jail, although judges often consider alternatives such as probation, fines, or programs. The risk depends on the specific offense, your prior record, and the facts alleged. Our team can explain typical ranges and work to limit or avoid jail when possible.

How quickly should I contact a lawyer after arrest?

It is usually best to contact a lawyer as soon as you can, ideally before your first court date. Early involvement allows us to help protect your rights and start gathering information while events are still fresh. Our firm is available 24/7 to discuss your misdemeanor case.

How will your firm keep me updated on my case?

We make communication a priority. Our team lets you know about upcoming hearings, explains what happened after each court date, and answers your questions by phone or in person. Because we are a boutique practice, we can devote the time needed to keep you informed.

Can you help if I only speak Spanish?

Yes. Our firm offers Spanish language services, so you can discuss your case and ask questions in the language that feels most comfortable. Clear communication is essential in criminal defense, and we want you to fully understand your rights and options.

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