Misdemeanor Lawyers
What is a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor offense is a lesser crime punishable by a fine and/or county jail time for up to one year. Crimes are generally either classified as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the seriousness of the crime.
Typical Misdemeanors
- Theft or Common Theft
- Assault and Battery
- Drunk Driving DUI/DWI
- Vandalism
- Public drunkenness
- Resisting arrest or Obstructing or Resisting a Police Officer
- Trespassing
- Disorderly conduct
- Breach of the Peace
- Failure to appear in Court
- Prostitution
This list is not exclusive. Many criminal offenses can also be charged as felonies or a misdemeanors, depending on the severity of the crime.
If You are Accused of a Misdemeanor
You face consequences of a misdemeanor conviction:
- It could be on your record for life
- County Jail
- Probation
- Mandatory classes
- Significant fines
- Loss of the right to possess deadly weapons
The likelihood of any of the above consequences depends on:
- The severity of the crime
- The extent of the injury or damage
- Mitigating or aggravating circumstances
- Prior convictions
- Currently on probation or parole
- Attitude of community and court toward this type of crime
- Whether or not a weapon is used
You Can Also be Held Civilly Liable to the Victim in a Private Lawsuit
You may be required to pay money for the victim's:
- Physical injuries
- Discomfort (pain and suffering)
- Direct out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Lost time from work
- Emotional injuries
Accused of a Misdemeanor?
If you are accused of a misdemeanor, you should speak to an attorney immediately to learn more about your rights, your defenses and the complicated legal system.
Vea esta página en español: Delitos Menores o visita Abogados-Leyes.com para más información legal.
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Last Modified: 05-18-2012 11:16 AM PDT
