Jun 4, 2025

Penalties for Offenses on Release

Florida Criminal Sentencing Guidelines

Felony and Misdemeanor Classifications

Florida law divides crimes into two main categories: felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies are more serious offenses and are punishable by more than one year in state prison, while misdemeanors are less serious and are punishable by up to one year in county jail.

Felony Degrees

• First-degree felony: Punishable by up to 30 years or life in prison.
• Second-degree felony: Punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
• Third-degree felony: Punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

Misdemeanor Degrees

• First-degree misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
• Second-degree misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

Sentencing Enhancements

Florida has several sentencing enhancements for repeat offenders, including the Prison Releasee Reoffender (PRR) law, the Habitual Felony Offender (HFO) law, and others. These laws can significantly increase the penalties for certain crimes.

Prison Releasee Reoffender (PRR) Law

The PRR law requires that defendants who commit certain felonies within three years of being released from prison must serve the maximum sentence for their new offense, without eligibility for parole or early release.

Examples of Serious Offenses

Serious offenses in Florida include crimes such as murder, armed robbery, sexual battery, and aggravated assault. These crimes are typically classified as felonies and carry the possibility of lengthy prison sentences.

Minimum Sentences

Florida law sets minimum sentences for some crimes, especially those involving firearms or repeat offenders. However, for many offenses, the judge has discretion within the statutory maximum and minimum ranges.

What is the minimum sentence for a 3rd degree felony in Florida?

Third-degree felonies in Florida are punishable by up to 5 years in prison. There is no mandatory minimum sentence for most third-degree felonies, so a judge may impose any sentence up to the maximum, including probation, unless a specific statute requires a minimum term.

What is the penalty for a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida?

• Second-degree misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

Penalties for Offenses on Release