Misdemeanor Lawyers

A misdemeanor is a crime which is defined differently by the laws of each state.  However, in most states, a misdemeanor constitutes a crime where the maximum amount of time an individual may be incarcerated for the crime does not exceed one year.  Moreover, for crimes against property, many states have laws which classify a misdemeanor crime based upon the amount of damage or money involved. 

For instance, if an individual is involved in a crime where there is property damage in excess of one thousand dollars, these states may treat this as a felony instead of a misdemeanor; thus, in such an instance, if the amount falls below the one thousand dollar threshold, the crime would constitute a misdemeanor. Furthermore, many states classify misdemeanors by the level of seriousness involved in the crime.

Typically, a Class A misdemeanor and a Class B misdemeanor carry stiffer penalties and are called “gross misdemeanors”.  For example, conviction of these may result in the automatic registration as a sex offender, license restrictions, education grant and loan restrictions, loss of child custody and more.

Common Misdemeanors

Common misdemeanors include, but are not limited to the following:

• disturbing the peace
• criminal mischief
• trespassing
• petty theft
• simple battery and assault
• shoplifting
• traffic violations
• perjury
• failure to appear in court
• resisting arrest
• lascivious acts

Getting Legal Help

When one is charged with a misdemeanor crime, one may seek the counsel of an experienced criminal attorney.  An attorney is especially necessary when charged with a Class A or B misdemeanor.  An experienced attorney may assist in ensuring that the defendant’s rights are protected and help the defendant understand the consequences of a conviction.  In addition, an attorney may be able to minimize the impact of the crime on one’s criminal record and help to reduce the length of time the crime remains on one’s record.  Finally, an experienced attorney may be able to have the charged dismissed or negotiate a favorable plea offer on one’s behalf.