Criminal Mischief
Criminal mischief is defined under Florida law as damaging another person’s property intentionally or as a result of reckless behavior. Criminal mischief offenders are often minors, and sometimes the individual or individuals that are arrested were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Once you have been arrested, the best way to defend yourself against conviction is to consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
If you have been arrested for criminal mischief, remember that you have a right to a defense in court. The West Palm Beach criminal defense attorneys at Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. are experienced in preparing a defense against criminal mischief charges and will aggressively argue your case in court.
Types of Criminal Mischief
If you have committed or have been accused of committing any of the following, you are likely facing criminal mischief charges:
- Graffiti
- Vandalism, including:
- Breaking windows or otherwise damaging a car, house, or other building
- Damaging a place of worship
- Damaging or tampering with public telephone service
Penalties for Criminal Mischief
A minor faces the following possible penalties if convicted:
- Driver’s license suspension until age 18
- Community service
- Monetary fines
An adult convicted of criminal mischief faces different penalties depending on the value of the damage and type of property that was damaged:
- Less than $1000 in damage: Misdemeanor charge, up to $250 fine for a first graffiti offense
- Greater than $1000 in damage: Felony charge, up to 5 years in prison
- Damage to a place of worship or public telephone line: Felony charge, up to 5 years in prison
If You Have Been Arrested
If you are facing criminal mischief charges, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to help protect your rights. Don’t enter the courtroom feeling unprepared to defend your case. Contact the aggressive, experienced West Palm Beach criminal mischief defense lawyers of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.
