Casey Anthony Trial
Casey Anthony smiles as she returns to the defense table after being acquitted on first degree murder charges of her daughter Caylee at the Orange County Courthouse Orlando Reuters

Judge Belvin Perry sentenced Casey Anthony to four years in jail and imposed a fine of $4,000 for lying to law enforcement officials on Thursday morning.

The judge ordered Anthony to remain in jail, however the Orlando Sentinel reported that she could be released late this month or early August. - since she has already been incarcerated for three years as she awaited a verdict -- and for good behavior.

Jose Baez, Anthony's lead defense attorney, told ABC news that the sentence moves Anthony closer to resuming a normal life.

I think Casey could have been anything she wanted in this world, and I think there are still plenty of things that Casey can do in life, and I think Casey can be a productive member of society, Baez said. So I think she's going to be able to, with a little help and guidance, move on.

On Wednesday, Anthony was acquitted of charges of killing her two-year-old daughter Caylee, capping an emotional and intensely watched trial.