How long do you go to jail for a Class 3 felony in Florida?

Asked by: Lina Boehm  |  Last update: December 18, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (66 votes)

3rd Degree-Felony in Florida Punishment Under Florida law, a third-degree felony is the least severe type of felony, yet it is more serious than a misdemeanor. If convicted of a third-degree felony, a person can face up to 5 years in prison and be fined up to $5,000, according to Florida Statutes Chapter 775.

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

There is no minimum sentence for a third degree felony in Florida, but there is a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison. There is also a maximum fine of up to $5,000. Depending on the crime, the court may order the defendant to pay restitution to the victim.

Do you go to jail for a Class 3 felony?

Some Class C or 3 felonies might carry maximum prison sentences of only 1 to 5 years, whereas other states could have maximum penalties of 10 or 15 years. Most felony statutes indicate a maximum sentence but not necessarily a minimum sentence.

Is a 3rd degree felony worse?

While it may seem a bit backwards to some people, the lower the degree of an offense (1st Degree, 2nd Degree, or 3rd Degree), the more serious charges. Likewise the higher the degree (4th Degree or 5th Degree) means the offense is of a less serious nature.

Is jail time mandatory for a felony in Florida?

Mandatory Minimum Sentences – Certain felony offenses in Florida come with mandatory minimum sentences, meaning the judge must impose at least the minimum prison time specified by law. These are typically associated with severe crimes or repeat offenses and leave little room for judicial discretion.

How long will I go to jail for a B felony?

19 related questions found

What is the 3 felony rule in Florida?

Florida's “Three Strikes” law (also known as the 10-20-Life law) is outlined in Florida Statute 775.087. When a repeat violent offender commits a third crime after their initial release, a severe prison sentence for the third felony conviction becomes mandatory.

How can I avoid jail time for felony?

5 strategies for lessening or avoiding jail time in felony cases
  1. #1: Negotiating plea bargains. Pleading out can be a strategic move. ...
  2. #2: Rehabilitation and counseling. ...
  3. #3: Character references. ...
  4. #4: Diversion programs. ...
  5. #5: Demonstrating remorse.

What does felony 3 mean?

This type of felony is not as serious as a first and second degree. In fact, a third-degree felony crime doesn't have to include physical contact, like some types of arson.

Can you travel with a 3rd degree felony?

People with felony convictions are generally eligible for passports or visas, depending on their circumstances. If you're a US citizen, you can apply for a passport even while your felony conviction is still pending. You should have no problem if your sentence has been completed or dismissed (including probation).

Can you go to college with a 3rd degree felony?

A felony conviction can make it more difficult to get into college, especially for those still under probation or parole supervision. Although people with certain felony convictions were once prohibited from receiving federal financial aid, this is no longer true.

Can a Class 3 felony be expunged?

California Law

For example, in California, felony convictions can only be expunged if: no time was served in state prison, felony probation was successfully completed, and. you are not currently facing criminal charges, on probation, or serving another sentence.

Can you bond out on a felony charge?

The short answer is: yes; in most felony cases the option to post bail is available in California. One point to consider is whether you are able to bond out for a felony charge. Posting bail will ensure that you can get out of jail as quickly as possible.

Is Class 2 felony worse than Class 3?

Yes, 2nd degree is worse than 3rd. Every state has different laws, but a 2nd degree felony carries a harsher sentence than a 3rd degree felony.

How long does a 3rd degree felony stay on your record in Florida?

A felony conviction in Florida will typically remain on your record indefinitely. It does not automatically disappear or “fall off” after a certain period. However, under certain conditions, you may be eligible to have your record sealed or expunged, which can hide or remove the conviction from public view.

Can you get probation for a first degree felony in Florida?

Yes, it's possible to receive probation for a first degree felony in Florida, although it's not guaranteed. The court will consider factors such as the nature of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and any mitigating circumstances.

Can a mandatory minimum sentence be reduced in Florida?

The concept of mandatory minimum sentencing laws is fairly simple: for certain crimes, a convicted defendant must serve a minimum punishment. When these laws apply, judges have zero discretion to decrease the mandated punishments.

Can you get a passport with a felony 3?

If you have received a felony conviction and have served out your sentence, including any parole or supervised release, then in most cases, you will be eligible to apply for a US passport.

Can you leave the states with a felony?

Although there may be travel restrictions placed on a defendant with any pending felony, there are some common types of felony offenses for which the court orders the person not to travel to other states. Courts may order the arrest of anyone who leaves the state violating a court order.

Can a pending felony be dropped?

A felony charge may be dropped before trial if new evidence comes to light proving innocence or casting reasonable doubt. It may also occur if the prosecutor decides the case is too weak to lead to a conviction.

How bad is a third-degree felony in Florida?

Under Florida law, a third-degree felony is the least severe type of felony, yet it is more serious than a misdemeanor. If convicted of a third-degree felony, a person can face up to 5 years in prison and be fined up to $5,000, according to Florida Statutes Chapter 775.

What is a class 3 felony in Florida?

Under Florida law, a third-degree felony is the least severe class of felonies but still a step above misdemeanors. Third-degree felonies can result in a maximum of 5 years imprisonment and a $5,000 fine, as outlined in Florida Statutes Chapter 775.

Can you be convicted of a felony and not go to jail?

Traditionally, felonies carry the possibility of a state prison sentence, fines, or both. However, not all felony convictions lead to jail time. Judges in California have the discretion to grant probation under specific conditions, considering various factors that extend beyond the mere categorization of the crime.

How long can you be in jail without charges?

Most states allow prosecutors up to 72 hours after an arrest to file charges, although some states, like California, allow only 48 hours. If the prosecutor fails to bring charges within this time limit, the court has to release you. Failure to do that is a violation of your rights.

How to not go to jail?

The best way to avoid jail is to avoid a conviction by getting the case dismissed, either by filing motions to suppress or going to trial and getting a not guilty verdict from the jury.

Can jail time be reduced?

Appeals and Sentence Modifications

Defendants can appeal their sentences if there were legal errors during sentencing. Successful appeals may result in reduced sentences or retrials. Additionally, under certain circumstances, courts can modify sentences based on changes in law or sentencing guidelines.