Okaloosa County, FL Misdemeanor Defense Attorney
Defending Misdemeanor Charges in Fort Walton Beach, Niceville & Crestview, Florida
A misdemeanor in Florida is a first-degree offense with up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, or a second-degree offense with up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine; the statute for each crime sets the degree. Okaloosa County misdemeanor cases are heard in county court, and many are resolved before trial through dismissal, diversion or a reduced charge, which is what Ricky Dayaram Law works toward from the first hearing.
Sources (checked September 16, 2026): Florida Statute 775.082, Florida Statute 775.083, Okaloosa County Clerk, criminal courts.
In Florida a misdemeanor is a crime punishable by up to one year in the county jail. Florida divides misdemeanors into first and second degree, and the statute for each offense sets the degree. A misdemeanor still leaves a criminal record, and only some cases qualify for sealing or expungement later.
First-Degree Misdemeanor
Up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Examples: battery, petit theft of $100 or more, and marijuana possession under 20 grams.
Second-Degree Misdemeanor
Up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Examples: disorderly conduct, simple assault, petit theft under $100, and loitering.
Misdemeanor Court Process
Most misdemeanor cases are resolved at or before the pretrial conference, without a trial.
On your behalf, we may pursue:
- check_circleA reduced charge
- check_circlePretrial diversion or a withhold of adjudication
- check_circleA negotiated plea without trial
- check_circleA lighter sentence
You Have Rights
Law enforcement must respect your constitutional rights. Should you be detained, avoid making self-incriminating statements without communicating with your lawyer first. You have the right to refuse consent to a search and the right to a lawyer.
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