Misdemeanors in Utah are punishable by up to 364 days in county or local jail, and are designated as class A, B, or C. Some misdemeanors are unclassified and punished as infractions. (Utah Code Ann. §§ 76-3-104, 76-3-204 (2019).)
Felonies (more serious crimes) are punishable by incarceration in state prison. For more information on felonies in Utah, see Utah Felony Crimes by Class and Sentences.
A class A misdemeanor is the most serious type of misdemeanor in Utah, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of as much as $2,500. Theft of services or property worth between $500 and $1,500 is a class A misdemeanor. (Utah Code Ann. §§ 76-3-204, 76-3-301 (2019).)
Under Utah’s laws, class B misdemeanors are punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. For example, an adult who knowingly furnishes alcohol to a minor can be convicted of a class B misdemeanor in Utah. (Utah Code Ann. §§ 76-3-204, 76-3-301 (2019).)
A conviction in Utah for a class C misdemeanor can result in up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $750. Class C misdemeanors are the least serious misdemeanor crimes under Utah’s laws. Driving on a suspended license, for instance, is typically a class C misdemeanor. (Utah Code Ann. §§ 76-3-204, 76-3-301 (2019).)
If a statute designates an offense as a misdemeanor but fails to classify or specify a punishment for it, the crime is punishable as an infraction. Potential punishments include:
(Utah Code Ann. §§ 76-3-104, 76-3-205, 76-3-301 (2019).)
A statute of limitations is a time period, set by lawmakers, during which the state must begin criminal prosecution. The statute of limitations begins to “run” when the crime is committed. Most misdemeanors in Utah have a statute of limitations of two years. (Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302 (2019).)
Any criminal conviction, even for a misdemeanor, can have serious consequences that can last long after the defendant has served a jail sentence or paid a fine. If you are charged with any crime, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Utah. A good lawyer can tell you how your case is likely to fare in court and how best to protect your rights.