What does the penalty of felony in the 3rd degree indicate for practicing without a license?

The classification of a felony in the third degree signifies that practicing without a license is considered a serious crime within the legal framework. In Florida, this designation reflects the gravity of violating laws regulating licensed practices such as dentistry and dental hygiene. A third-degree felony can carry significant penalties, including possible imprisonment, fines, and a permanent mark on an individual's criminal record, indicating that the action undermines public safety and the integrity of professional health standards.

This classification serves to emphasize the importance of licensure in the medical and dental fields, aiming to protect the public from unqualified practitioners who may pose a risk to patient health and safety. In contrast, terms like minor violation, major criminal offense, and light offense do not accurately capture the legal implications and potential consequences associated with third-degree felonies, which are recognized as substantial offenses in the criminal justice system.