Having any kind of criminal record can make it very difficult to find a job, and even misdemeanor convictions carry consequences that can last far beyond the time you spend behind bars. You might also have to pay fines or restitution, and may be subject to restrictions on your ability to work in certain industries, particularly those that require licensing. That’s why it is important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible if you have been charged with a misdemeanor crime.
Generally, the penalties for misdemeanor crimes are much less severe than those for felonies. However, this does not mean that the offenses are not serious. Depending on the severity of the crime and other factors, a misdemeanor can actually be upgraded to a felony in some cases.
Most states have different classifications for misdemeanors, with Class A and Class B being the most serious. A class A misdemeanor can result in up to a year of jail time, while a class B misdemeanor typically results in around 90 to 180 days. The level of the crime also depends on whether it is committed against a person or property.
For example, a domestic violence misdemeanor can be upgraded to a felony in some states if the victim is pregnant or the perpetrator is a repeat offender. In addition to the fines that you might be obligated to pay, the judge might impose other punishments, including mandatory state surcharges, community service, a probation period, mandatory alcohol classes and a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. The court might also choose to revoke your probation and impose jail time if you violate any of the terms of your agreement with the court.
Can I Get a Misdemeanor Expunged from My Record?
A misdemeanor charge is typically not enough to keep you out of jail, and first-time offenders rarely receive anywhere close to the maximum sentence. However, a conviction will stay on your record for years, and can hurt you in many ways, including making it harder to secure a job or even finding a place to live.
As a criminal defense attorney, I can help you understand your options for fighting the charges, and how a criminal record can impact your life in the future. You should contact a local misdemeanor defense attorney as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges.
The biggest difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is the amount of prison time you might face if convicted. Misdemeanors are penalized by a fine or incarceration, or sometimes a combination of both, while a felony can carry up to five years in state prison. Felonies can also carry other potential consequences, such as immigration consequences or the inability to have a firearm. A lawyer can help you determine the best course of action for your situation. The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt in a misdemeanor trial, which usually only occurs before a judge rather than a jury.
