Possible Penalties of a Missouri Misdemeanor Conviction

Missouri misdemeanors fall into one of three classes: Class A misdemeanors, class B misdemeanors and class C misdemeanors. Your potential penalty if convicted of a misdemeanor will depend on the crime you committed (if you are found guilty), any mitigating factors in your case and the decision of the trier of fact.

Class A Misdemeanors in Missouri

You can face up to one year of jail time or a fine of up to one thousand dollars or both if you are convicted of a class A misdemeanor in Missouri. Some crimes which are classified as class A misdemeanors include fraud and assault depending on the severity of injury or damages resulting.

Class B Misdemeanors in Missouri

You can face up to six months of jail time or a fine of up to five hundred dollars or both if you are convicted of a class B misdemeanor in Missouri. Some crimes which are classified as class B misdemeanors include trespassing and first offense drunk driving or driving while under the influence. Actual charges will vary according to the facts of your case and punishment will vary as well.

Class C Misdemeanors in Missouri

You can face up to fifteen days of jail time or a fine of up to three hundred dollars or both if you are convicted of a class C misdemeanor in Missouri. This is the least serious type of misdemeanor and it is only charged for minimal crimes. It is also likely easiest to get dropped or reduced since it carries a small jail sentence and fine.

No matter which type of misdemeanor charges you face, the effects of a criminal record can negatively impact your life in several ways. To make sure you do all that you can to avoid these negative impacts, discuss your rights with a criminal defense attorney immediately after discovering you have been charged.

Legal Help for Missouri Misdemeanors

Should you find yourself facing serious criminal charges in Missouri, you should protect your freedom by hiring a criminal defense attorney who is a strong negotiator and good at trial work. A skillful attorney may be able to limit your penalties or get your charges dismissed. You should have an attorney with you at all steps of the way after you have been charged with a misdemeanor to ensure the best possible outcome in your case.