8 Best Criminal Defense Attorneys for Misdemeanor Charges in Florida (2026)

If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge in Florida right now, here’s the short answer: you need a lawyer who knows county court procedure, understands your specific charge type, and can move quickly. The eight firms below are among the strongest options across the state in 2026. A misdemeanor conviction can still mean jail time, fines, and a record that follows you, so choosing the right attorney is not a minor decision even if the charge sounds minor.

Florida splits misdemeanors into two tiers. A first-degree misdemeanor carries up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. A second-degree misdemeanor carries up to 60 days and a $500 fine. Both fall under Florida Statutes §775.082 and §775.083, and both are handled in county court) rather than circuit court. That affects how quickly a case can move and how much influence an experienced defense lawyer may have. Common charges include DUI, petit theft, battery, disorderly conduct, trespass, and violation of probation (VOP), a charge that can send someone back to jail even without a new arrest. This guide ranks eight criminal defense attorneys for misdemeanor charges in Florida, organized to help you find the right fit quickly.

Our top pick is RHINO Lawyers for Florida residents who want one firm that can handle a misdemeanor case anywhere in the state. That may matter when you’re not yet sure which county court will hear your case or you split time between multiple Florida counties. The firm runs a dedicated misdemeanor defense practice covering DUI, petit theft, battery, and violation of probation. It also focuses on client education, walking people through what the charge means and how the court process works before things become confusing. For Miami-Dade defendants who specifically want a Florida Bar board-certified criminal trial attorney, Hubbs Law, P.A. is the strongest alternative on this list. For Palm Beach County residents who value access to a named partner at any hour, Meltzer & Bell, P.A. may be the better fit.

Beyond DUI and theft, this list covers battery, trespass, disorderly conduct, and probation violations, since these make up much of the misdemeanor caseload in Florida’s county courts. The range of crimes classified as misdemeanors in Florida is broader than many people expect. It includes first-offense DUI, simple battery, petit theft under $750, and possession of small amounts of certain substances. None should automatically be treated as minor given the potential jail exposure. With that groundwork laid, here is how we evaluated the firms before getting into the ranked list.

How we ranked these

We looked beyond which firm had the flashiest website. Five factors mattered most for someone in Florida facing a misdemeanor who needs to move quickly and choose carefully.

Geographic coverage across Florida’s circuits

A firm that knows only one courthouse may be a poor fit if your case is elsewhere or gets transferred. We weighted statewide reach and clear regional specialization differently, but both count when they match your location.

Attorney credentials

Board certification from the Florida Bar, prosecutorial experience, and public defender backgrounds all provide useful information about how a lawyer may handle a case. We looked for verifiable credentials rather than vague claims of “aggressive representation.”

Misdemeanor-specific practice depth

Plenty of firms bury misdemeanors on a generic “criminal defense” page. We favored firms that treat misdemeanor work as a distinct practice area and provide meaningful explanatory content rather than positioning it as an afterthought next to felony marketing.

Transparency and client education

We considered whether the firm explains the first-degree and second-degree misdemeanor distinction, the county court process, and possible outcomes. A request to call for a “free case review” means less when there is no useful information behind it.

Accessibility

Response time and consultation availability matter when you’re stressed and court dates are approaching. We noted firms that make specific commitments, such as 24/7 partner access, rather than relying on broad promises.

At a glance: the 8 best options

Provider	Best for	Key strength
RHINO Lawyers	Statewide Florida misdemeanor coverage	Dedicated misdemeanor guidance
Hubbs Law, P.A.	Miami-Dade board-certified criminal trial defense	Board certification and dual courtroom background
Stroleny Law	Miami former-prosecutor misdemeanor representation	Former state prosecutor experience
Meltzer & Bell, P.A.	Palm Beach County 24/7 partner access	Round-the-clock partner availability
MK Law	Broward County court-focused misdemeanor defense	Detailed county-court education
The Defense Group	Central Florida misdemeanor and VOP cases	Express VOP practice coverage
Pumphrey Law	Tallahassee and North Florida misdemeanor guidance	Misdemeanor classification resources
Fowler Law Group	Sarasota County former-prosecutor insight	Former 12th Circuit prosecutor experience

The 8 best criminal defense attorneys for misdemeanor charges in Florida

With those five criteria in mind, here are the eight firms best positioned to defend Florida misdemeanor charges in 2026. We’ve organized them loosely from south to north, starting with the statewide option before moving through South Florida, Palm Beach and Broward, Central Florida, North Florida, and finally Southwest Florida. RHINO Lawyers leads the list as the top overall recommendation. The remaining seven are regional options for defendants who know which courthouse is handling their case.

#1. RHINO Lawyers – Best for statewide Florida misdemeanor coverage

RHINO Lawyers earns the top spot because it addresses a problem that can arise when a defendant needs representation beyond a single metro area: it covers misdemeanor defense across Florida’s major circuits. That matters if you were charged somewhere you don’t live, you’re unsure which county court has jurisdiction, or your situation involves more than one Florida county. In those circumstances, a regional boutique may not offer the same geographic reach.

The firm runs a dedicated Florida misdemeanor defense practice, and its criminal defense attorney resources explain the charges, potential penalties, and county court process in plain language before a client sits down for a consultation. That kind of upfront explanation can help when you’re encountering unfamiliar terms such as “adjudication withheld” or “withhold of adjudication” for the first time while under stress.

RHINO’s practice spans common misdemeanor charge types, including DUI, petit theft, battery, trespass, disorderly conduct, and violation of probation. This breadth can save a client from having to shop around if a case involves more than one charge category, as can happen when a DUI arrest also produces a resisting charge.

Pros

• Statewide coverage may help when jurisdiction is unclear or a case involves multiple counties
• Covers major Florida misdemeanor charge types under one roof
• Dedicated misdemeanor practice content indicates a clear focus on this work
• Client education helps first-time defendants understand what they may be facing

Cons

• A statewide model may not offer the same hyper-local focus as a single-county specialist who has spent years in one courthouse
• No published flat-fee or pricing structure is publicly available, so prospective clients need to ask during a consultation
• The firm may have less individual name recognition in certain metro markets than firms that have operated locally for decades

Who it’s best for: Florida residents who want one firm capable of handling a misdemeanor charge across the state, especially when jurisdiction is uncertain or multi-county coverage may be needed.

#2. Hubbs Law, P.A. – Best for Miami-Dade board-certified trial defense

Hubbs Law is built around a credential that is uncommon in Florida criminal defense: the attorney is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by the Florida Bar, a designation held by a small percentage of practicing criminal attorneys statewide. This is a formal certification with continuing education and peer review requirements behind it, rather than a self-assigned marketing label.

What makes this firm particularly interesting for misdemeanor clients is the attorney’s dual background as a former Assistant State Attorney and Assistant Public Defender. The attorney has worked on both sides of a Miami-Dade courtroom, prosecuting and defending cases. That experience may provide a useful perspective on how the state builds a misdemeanor case and where weaknesses could emerge.

The firm also practices immigration law alongside criminal defense. This can be a meaningful differentiator for non-citizen clients because a misdemeanor case may carry immigration consequences that should be considered early in the process.

Pros

• Florida Bar board certification is a verifiable, objective credential
• Former prosecutor and public defender experience provides a broad courtroom perspective
• Immigration law crossover may benefit non-citizen defendants concerned about immigration consequences
• Years of local practice provide South Florida courthouse familiarity

Cons

• Geographic focus is Miami-Dade and the surrounding area, so it may not suit Central or North Florida defendants
• The firm also handles felony cases, meaning misdemeanors are not its exclusive practice
• Prospective clients should confirm current availability directly with the firm

Who it’s best for: Miami-Dade defendants who specifically want a board-certified trial attorney with prosecutorial and public defender experience.

#3. Stroleny Law – Best for Miami former-prosecutor misdemeanor representation

Julian Stroleny, Esq. leads this Miami firm after gaining experience as a state prosecutor. That background informs the firm’s approach to misdemeanor defense, since understanding how the state constructs a case can help identify areas that may be challenged. The firm describes itself as award-winning and points to Avvo’s Client’s Choice Award for three consecutive years, reflecting client feedback rather than an internal designation.

Stroleny Law handles a wide range of criminal matters, including DUI, drug crimes, violent crimes, sex crimes, and misdemeanors generally. The firm reports that it has handled thousands of cases over its history. It also offers free consultations, which allows someone who has recently been arrested to discuss available options before deciding whether to retain the firm.

That broad practice can be helpful if a charge becomes more serious or a case includes several allegations. At the same time, prospective clients looking for a misdemeanor-only practice should note that the firm handles serious felony matters as well.

Pros

• Former prosecutor experience provides insight into how the state may build its case
• Three consecutive years of Avvo’s Client’s Choice Award offers a client-feedback signal
• Free consultations let first-time defendants discuss their circumstances before hiring the firm
• Broad criminal practice allows the firm to respond if a case escalates from misdemeanor to felony

Cons

• Based in Miami, making it less practical for defendants outside South Florida
• Wide practice scope means the firm handles serious felony matters alongside misdemeanors
• Clients should ask who will manage the case and how communication is handled

Who it’s best for: Miami defendants who want a former state prosecutor’s perspective on a misdemeanor case, particularly when there is a risk that the charge could escalate.

#4. Meltzer & Bell, P.A. – Best for Palm Beach County 24/7 partner access

Meltzer & Bell serves residents and visitors of Palm Beach County facing misdemeanor, felony, or federal charges. The firm’s standout feature is specific: one of the named partners, Lawrence Meltzer or Steven Bell, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The firm presents this as direct partner-level access rather than access limited to an answering service or junior associate.

That can matter in misdemeanor cases because arrests often happen overnight or on weekends. The first 24 to 48 hours after an arrest may affect bail conditions and early strategic decisions. Being able to reach a partner without waiting until the next business day is a practical advantage.

The firm also serves visitors to Palm Beach County. This is relevant for tourists or out-of-state residents who are charged while passing through and need a local attorney who understands that returning for every hearing may be difficult.

Pros

• 24/7 partner availability is a specific firm commitment
• Serves residents and out-of-state visitors charged in Palm Beach County
• Handles federal charges as well as state misdemeanor and felony cases
• Two named partners provide clients with more than one senior point of contact

Cons

• Focused on Palm Beach County rather than statewide or multi-circuit representation
• Prospective clients should confirm which partner or attorney will handle day-to-day work
• The firm handles a broad criminal caseload rather than specializing exclusively in misdemeanors

Who it’s best for: Palm Beach County residents or visitors who prioritize round-the-clock access to a named partner rather than only an intake line.

#5. MK Law – Best for Broward County court-focused misdemeanor defense

MK Law is a Fort Lauderdale trial boutique that regularly handles county court misdemeanors. Its public educational content discusses Florida Statutes §775.082 and §775.083 in detail, including first-degree misdemeanors carrying up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, and second-degree misdemeanors carrying up to 60 days and a $500 fine. That specificity suggests the firm treats misdemeanor law as a subject worth explaining properly.

The firm’s practice covers charges commonly found on Broward County’s misdemeanor docket, including petit theft, battery, first-offense DUI, cannabis possession, trespass, and disorderly conduct. Its focus on county court procedure, rather than only using a general criminal defense pitch, indicates an understanding that misdemeanor cases move differently from felony cases and require their own strategic approach.

Much of the readily available information about the firm comes from its educational content rather than a comprehensive public firm profile. Prospective clients should therefore confirm details about staffing, case management, availability, and fees during a consultation.

Pros

• Detailed educational content explains Florida misdemeanor law without relying only on boilerplate
• Handles common Broward misdemeanor charges, including first DUI and petit theft
• Fort Lauderdale base provides familiarity with Broward County courthouse practices
• County court content shows that misdemeanor work receives specific attention

Cons

• Broward County focus may be less useful for defendants elsewhere in Florida
• Public information relies heavily on educational content rather than a full firm profile
• Partner availability, pricing, and team structure should be confirmed directly

Who it’s best for: Broward County defendants who want a firm that clearly explains Florida misdemeanor statutes and county court procedure.

#6. The Defense Group – Best for Central Florida misdemeanor and VOP cases

Headquartered in Orlando, The Defense Group handles misdemeanors, felonies, and violations of probation. Its VOP coverage is worth noting because probation violations are among the more serious misdemeanor-adjacent issues in Florida. A technical violation, such as missing a check-in, may lead to court action even when no new criminal charge has been filed, so defendants should not assume probation requirements are merely formalities.

The firm has operated since 2012, giving it more than a decade in the Central Florida market. It describes its approach as aggressive in protecting clients’ rights and futures. Available information indicates a small staff of roughly five people, although prospective clients should confirm the firm’s current team structure and who would work directly on their case.

The firm is not a misdemeanor-only practice because it also handles felonies and VOP matters. Its Orlando base, however, gives it an established presence for defendants whose cases are proceeding through Central Florida’s county courts.

Pros

• Explicitly handles violation of probation cases as well as misdemeanors
• Orlando base provides an established Central Florida presence
• More than a decade of operation since its founding in 2012

Cons

• Available data indicates a relatively small team, so clients should ask about current availability
• Handles felonies and VOP matters alongside misdemeanors rather than focusing solely on lower-level charges
• Public information provides limited detail on individual attorney certifications

Who it’s best for: Central Florida defendants dealing with a misdemeanor charge or violation of probation who want a firm with established local roots.

#7. Pumphrey Law – Best for Tallahassee and North Florida misdemeanor guidance

Pumphrey Law is a long-standing Tallahassee criminal defense firm that provides an option for defendants in North Florida and the Panhandle. Its location in the state capital makes it particularly relevant for people seeking representation in that region rather than in the more heavily represented South Florida corridor.

The firm has published detailed content on Florida’s misdemeanor classification system, comparing the first-degree tier, which carries up to one year in jail, with the second-degree tier and explaining the penalties tied to each. That educational depth goes beyond a generic statement that the firm handles misdemeanors and gives potential clients a clearer starting point.

As with several firms on this list, much of the readily available detail comes from educational content rather than a comprehensive firm profile. Specifics concerning individual attorney credentials, case assignments, or board certifications should be confirmed directly with the firm.

Pros

• Tallahassee base is useful for defendants in North Florida and the Panhandle
• Provides detailed information on misdemeanor classifications and penalties
• Long-established local practice offers regional familiarity

Cons

• Much of the public information comes from educational content rather than a complete firm profile
• Geographic focus is North Florida and the Tallahassee area, making it less practical for defendants farther south
• Individual attorney certifications and credentials should be verified during a consultation

Who it’s best for: Tallahassee and North Florida defendants who want an established regional firm with detailed knowledge of how Florida classifies and penalizes misdemeanor charges.

#8. Fowler Law Group – Best for Sarasota County former-prosecutor insight

Fowler Law Group is a small Sarasota firm led by a former 12th Circuit prosecutor. That is a relevant credential for someone facing charges in the same circuit because the attorney has firsthand experience with how local prosecutors approach criminal cases, including misdemeanors.

The firm has published current, 2026-dated content on Florida misdemeanor charges and what defendants can expect in county court, including a breakdown of Florida Statute 775.082’s first-degree and second-degree tiers. The content also notes that petit theft charges can escalate when a defendant has two or more prior convictions, showing attention to how a seemingly minor charge may become more serious.

As a Southwest Florida firm, Fowler Law Group covers the Sarasota area, which is not the primary focus of the other entries on this list. Clients should still ask about current availability, case assignments, and whether the firm’s local focus matches the court handling their charge.

Pros

• Former 12th Circuit prosecutor experience is directly relevant to Sarasota County cases
• Updated 2026 content indicates an active misdemeanor practice
• Content addresses charge escalation in repeat petit theft cases
• Provides a Southwest Florida option for defendants in and around Sarasota County

Cons

• Prospective clients should confirm current staffing and availability
• Geographic focus is Sarasota County and the surrounding 12th Circuit
• No additional board certification or formal credentials were independently verified here

Who it’s best for: Sarasota County defendants who want a former local prosecutor’s perspective on how the 12th Circuit handles misdemeanor cases.

FAQ: what Florida residents ask about misdemeanor charges

Is it worth hiring a criminal defense attorney to fight a misdemeanor charge in Florida?

It often is. A misdemeanor conviction can mean possible jail time, fines, probation, and a record that affects employment or housing applications. Depending on the evidence, charge, and defendant’s history, an attorney may pursue a reduced charge, diversion, dismissal, or another resolution. No particular outcome is guaranteed, but legal advice can help a defendant understand the options before making permanent decisions.

What defense strategies can a lawyer use to fight misdemeanor charges in Florida?

The available strategy depends on the charge and evidence. A lawyer may challenge an unlawful stop or search, question whether witnesses are reliable, test whether the state can prove every required element, or seek to exclude improperly obtained evidence. In some cases, counsel may present self-defense, lack of intent, mistaken identity, or another fact-specific defense. An attorney can also negotiate for diversion or a reduced charge when contesting the case at trial is not the best option. No strategy guarantees a particular result.

What is the difference between a first-degree and second-degree misdemeanor in Florida?

A first-degree misdemeanor carries up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine under Florida Statute §775.082. A second-degree misdemeanor carries up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. The charge determines which tier applies. Battery, for example, is typically a first-degree misdemeanor, while disorderly conduct is usually classified as second-degree.

What are the maximum penalties for a misdemeanor conviction in Florida?

The maximum for a first-degree misdemeanor is one year in county jail and a $1,000 fine. Courts may also impose probation, community service, mandatory classes, and restitution when applicable. Actual sentences depend on factors such as the specific facts, prior record, governing law, and the judge’s decision, so the statutory ceiling should not be treated as a prediction.

Will a misdemeanor conviction appear on my permanent record in Florida?

A misdemeanor conviction generally appears on background checks unless the record later qualifies for sealing or another form of relief. A withhold of adjudication is not the same as a conviction, but the arrest and case record may still be publicly visible. The effect on employment, housing, or professional licensing depends on the record and the rules applying to the person reviewing it.

Can a Florida misdemeanor charge be expunged or sealed?

Possibly, depending on the charge, outcome, and person’s prior record. A dismissed case, diversion outcome, or withhold of adjudication for an eligible charge may support sealing or expungement under Florida’s procedures. A conviction generally creates more significant restrictions. Eligibility is fact-specific, so defendants should verify their options rather than assume a case automatically qualifies.

Should I fight a first DUI misdemeanor instead of just pleading guilty?

That depends on the evidence and circumstances. DUI carries consequences beyond the criminal penalty, including possible license suspension and higher insurance costs. Common defense issues may include the legality of the traffic stop, breath-test procedures, field sobriety evidence, and whether the state can prove impairment. The administrative and criminal rules are explained further in Forbes Advisor’s overview of Florida DUI laws, but an attorney should assess how those rules apply to a specific case before a plea decision is made.

Is it worth using a public defender instead of hiring private counsel for a misdemeanor?

It depends on eligibility, finances, and the needs of the case. Public defenders are qualified attorneys, although their caseloads may limit the amount of time available for each client. Private counsel may offer more individualized attention, but cost is an important consideration and does not guarantee a better result. Defendants who qualify for appointed counsel can discuss representation and communication expectations before deciding how to proceed.

Final take: matching the right attorney to your situation

If you’re unsure which county will handle your case or you split time across Florida, RHINO Lawyers is a practical starting point because of its statewide coverage and client-education approach. If you’re in Miami-Dade and want a board-certified trial attorney with prosecutorial experience, Hubbs Law, P.A. is the stronger regional fit. Stroleny Law is another Miami option for defendants who value a free consultation and a former prosecutor’s perspective.

For Palm Beach County, Meltzer & Bell, P.A. stands out for partner-level access at any hour, which can be useful when an arrest occurs outside normal business hours. Broward County residents can consider MK Law for its detailed approach to misdemeanor law, while Central Florida defendants facing a misdemeanor or violation of probation may find The Defense Group’s Orlando presence relevant. Pumphrey Law serves Tallahassee and North Florida, while Fowler Law Group offers former-prosecutor experience for defendants in Sarasota County and the 12th Circuit.

Whichever firm matches your circumstances, avoid unnecessary delay. Misdemeanor cases can move quickly through Florida’s county courts, and early decisions involving bail, plea timing, and preservation of evidence may affect the case. Speak with a qualified Florida criminal defense attorney as soon as reasonably possible after an arrest rather than waiting until after the first court date.