In Indiana, misdemeanors are those crimes that are punished by up to a year in jail. Misdemeanors in Indiana are designated as class A, B, or C.
More serious crimes (felonies) are punishable by a term of one year or more in state prison.
For more information on felonies in Indiana, see Indiana Felony Crimes by Class and Sentences.
Class A Misdemeanors
A class A misdemeanor is the most serious type of misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
(Ind. Code Ann. § 35-50-3-2.)
Possession of up to 30 grams of marijuana is an example of a class A misdemeanor.
For more information on marijuana penalties, see Indiana Marijuana Laws.
Class B Misdemeanors
Class B misdemeanors are punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
(Ind. Code Ann. § 35-50-3-3.)
For example, public intoxication is a class B misdemeanor.
For more information on this crime, see Indiana Public Intoxication Laws.
Class C Misdemeanors
A class C misdemeanor is punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
(Ind. Code Ann. § 35-50-3-4.)
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a class C misdemeanor if it is the person’s first DUI offense and the person’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is over .08 but less than .15.
For more information on drunk driving penalties, see Indiana Drunk Driving Fines & Penalties.
Statutes of Limitations
Misdemeanors have fairly short statutes of limitations (time limits) during which the prosecutor must file criminal charges. Once the crime is committed, the statute of limitations begins to “run.” When the statute of limitations has run out, the crime can no longer be prosecuted.
For more information, see Indiana Criminal Statute of Limitations.
Obtaining Legal Assistance
A criminal conviction, even for a misdemeanor, can have a lasting effect on your life. If you are charged with a crime, no matter what the charges, you should talk to a local criminal defense attorney. An attorney can tell you how your case is likely to be treated in court, based on the law, the facts of your case, and the assigned judge and prosecutor. A good attorney will make the best arguments on your behalf so that you can obtain the most favorable outcome under the circumstances.
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