Unfortunately, many underestimate the severity of a misdemeanor charge simply because it is not as serious as a felony. While the penalties can be less intense, taking any criminal charge against you seriously is essential, as a conviction can have lasting impacts on your life. One thing many are unsure of is whether or not they will face time spent in jail. If this reflects your circumstances, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters and how Harris County criminal defense lawyers can fight for the best possible outcome for you.

What Warrants a Misdemeanor Crime?

A misdemeanor offense is a criminal charge that is less severe than a felony offense. Typically, a misdemeanor is any offense with a sentence that does not exceed more than one year behind bars. However, there are also different kinds of misdemeanors, depending on the crime.

Common misdemeanor offenses include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Perjury
  • Assault with bodily harm
  • DWI
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Minor in possession of alcohol
  • Indecent exposure
  • Trespassing
  • Harassment

As mentioned, misdemeanors have different classifications based on their severity. These range from a Class A offense, which is generally regarded as the most severe, to a Class C misdemeanor.

It’s also important to understand that in some instances, a misdemeanor charge against you can be elevated to a felony if you have prior convictions on your record, used a deadly weapon, or other aggravating factors are present.

What Penalties Can I Face for These Charges?

It’s important to understand that depending on the charges against you, you can face serious penalties for a misdemeanor offense. The consequences are as follows:

  • Class A: A fine of up to $4,000 and the potential for up to one year in jail
  • Class B: A fine of up to $2,000 and up to 180 days in jail
  • Class C: A fine of up to $500 with no time spent in jail

It’s critical to understand that a misdemeanor will not only impact how much time you spend behind bars, but a criminal record can have lasting effects on the rest of your life. For example, you may find that having a conviction on your record, even for a misdemeanor, can severely impact your career opportunities. You may be unable to receive certain professional licenses and may be denied certain jobs because of your criminal history. Additionally, a criminal charge can put a strain on your personal and social relationships.

As you can see, a criminal record can seriously impact your life, even if it is just a misdemeanor offense, which is why it is critical to connect with an experienced attorney from the Sparks Law Firm, PC, as soon as possible. Connect with us today to learn how we can assist you through these complicated matters.