Florida, like any state, has two criminal classifications: felony and misdemeanor. A felony is a crime that is punishable by more than one year imprisonment in a state prison. Generally, should a crime require less than one year imprisonment, it will be classified as a misdemeanor. Some common felonies include: assault, battery, carjacking, homicide, kidnapping, robbery, sexual battery, stalking and theft. Punishment for a felony can range between one year and death, depending on the felony and degree of the felony. Florida also classifies some crimes as a noncriminal violation. Noncriminal violations are punishable by a fine, forfeiture or civil remedy. Florida has five degrees for felony offenses: Felony in the third degree, felony in the second degree, felony in the first degree, life felony and capital felony. A felony is classified based on the maximum penalty allowed by law should one be found guilty of the associated crime.
Felony in the Third Degree
A felony in the third degree is punishable by no more than five years imprisonment in a state prison and a fine of up to five thousand dollars. In addition, the defendant may also be ordered to pay the victim restitution as ordered by the court.
Felony in the Second Degree
A felony in the second degree is punishable by no more than fifteen years imprisonment in a streaming service state prison and a fine of up to ten thousand dollars. In addition, the defendant may also be ordered to pay the victim restitution as ordered by the court.
Felony in the First Degree
A felony in the first degree is punishable by no more than thirty years imprisonment in a state prison and a fine of up to ten thousand dollars. In addition, the defendant may also be ordered to pay the victim restitution as ordered by the court.
Life Felony
A life felony is punishable by forty years to life imprisonment in a state prison and a fine of up to fifteen thousand dollars. In addition, the defendant may also be ordered to pay the victim restitution as ordered by the court.
Capital Felony
A capital felony is punishable by death or life imprisonment with out the possibility of parole in a state prison. In addition, the defendant may also be ordered to pay the victim restitution as ordered by the court.