Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyers for a Misdemeanor Charge?

You should treat all criminal charges seriously. Although misdemeanors are less serious than felony offenses, you still could face jail time, fines and a permanent criminal record, if you’re convicted. A conviction for some misdemeanors in New York can result in severe penalties.

It can be helpful to have some knowledge about the common misdemeanors in Orange County if you are arrested on a misdemeanor case. This knowledge may not be enough to help you defend yourself in court before the judge.

 What crimes are considered misdemeanors by Orange County, NY?  

New York has many misdemeanor offenses. These include drunk driving, theft, disorderly conduct, and drug crimes.

These are examples of misdemeanor offenses:

•  Harassment  
•  Batteries  
•  Disorderly behavior  
•  Possession of marijuana  
•  Criminal mischief  
•  Public intoxication  
•  Theft  
•  Prostitution  
•  Check fraud  
•  Driving a vehicle after being under the influence  
•  You can carry a handgun with no license  
•  Illegal possession by minors of alcohol  
•  Trespassing

These are just a few examples of misdemeanors that could be charged. It is important that you remember that misdemeanors may be upgraded to felony depending on the facts of each case.

  What Punishments are Available for Misdemeanor Convictions  

A misdemeanor is punishable with a maximum of one year imprisonment. Indiana categorizes misdemeanors in three classes: Class A, Class B or Class C. There are three possible punishments for misdemeanors:

•  Class A Misdemeanors: Up to 1 year in prison and up to $5,000 fine  
•  Class B Misdemeanors: Up to 180 days in prison and up to $1,000 fine  
•  Class C Misdemeanors: Up to 60 days in Jail and up to $500 Fine  

Some misdemeanors may be upgraded to felony charges, as mentioned above. For felony convictions, the penalties are more severe. You can lose some civil rights if you are convicted for a felony in addition to jail and fines.

A misdemeanor conviction can have additional consequences, including:

•  It is difficult to find a job.  
•  Persisting in a criminal offense  
•  Vehicle insurance premiums have risen  
•  Driving privileges may be lost or restricted  
•  Earning potential reduced  
•  Access to scholarships, grants, loans or loans for college is limited or impossible.  
•  Loss of commercial truck driver’s license  
•  Deportation  
•  It is difficult to resolve a case regarding child custody  
•  Revocation of Second Amendment rights  

The nature of the misdemeanor charges will determine the potential for adverse or negative consequences. Do you really want to risk being convicted?

from Greenwald Law Firm https://www.greenwaldfirm.com/criminal-defense/do-i-need-a-criminal-defense-lawyers-for-a-misdemeanor-charge/
via Benjamin Greenwald