It can be difficult to know what steps to take when you’ve been charged with a crime. Navigating the legal system without the help of a legal professional can significantly affect the outcome of your case. If you plan to hire a criminal lawyer in the state of Florida, it’s important to know what you can expect to pay for the legal services.
The cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer is an average of $2,000 to $3,500, depending on the experience of the professional. This is the average cost for first-degree misdemeanors. If you want to spend less money, there are cheaper lawyers available for $1,000. Some legal professionals that have a higher level of experience can charge an average of $5,000. This is the type of lawyer you should hire if you’re charged with domestic violence, possession of marijuana, or resisting arrest.
If you’re charged with a second-degree misdemeanor, you’ll be charged an average of $1,500 to $3,500. This is for crimes that include disorderly conduct, petit theft, and trespassing. Some legal professionals with less experience will charge as low as $750. More expensive attorneys will charge $4,000 to $5,000.
For felony charges, a criminal defense lawyer charges an average of $3,500 to $10,000. The cost of the legal services for first and second-degree felonies ranges from $35,000 to $100,000.
Although you may want to spend less for the legal services you receive, this can result in harsher consequences if you don’t have a qualified legal professional that is representing you. You can end up in jail if you opt for hiring a lawyer that is less experienced and doesn’t spend enough time reviewing your case. Hiring a qualified legal professional can allow you to understand your rights and have a stronger case as the lawyer evaluates the evidence.
It’s not worth sacrificing your civil liberties to save money when you’re facing charges. It’s important to hire a lawyer that has handled similar cases and doesn’t have too many caseloads to ensure they can give your case more attention.
Learn how Florida's strict chain of custody rules for DUI evidence can affect your case…
Learn essential courtroom etiquette in Florida, including how to address judges, dress appropriately, and prepare…
Understand plea bargains in Florida, including types, benefits, risks, and the negotiation process to make…
Explore Florida's victim confidentiality laws that protect crime victims' privacy and ensure their rights during…
Explore how aggravating factors influence sentencing in Florida, including their definitions, impacts, and legal rights…
Undocumented parents in Florida have equal parental rights but face unique challenges in custody cases…