Finding yourself facing misdemeanor charges can be frightening. While they may not carry as heavy of penalties as felonies, they are still considered crimes and being found guilty of a misdemeanor can still land you in jail and leave you paying serious fines. This is why it is so important to contact an experienced criminal attorney as soon are able. Contact Allison & Mosby-Scott now so we can begin building you an effective defense and minimize the damage done to your life.
Misdemeanors
Bloomington Misdemeanor Attorneys
Illinois has three classes of misdemeanors – each carrying its own possible punishments. Depending on the severity of the crime, you could be charged with a:
Class A Misdemeanor – Carrying a maximum jail time of 364 days and a possible fine of up to $2500, Class A misdemeanors are no laughing matter. Spending a year in jail – minus a day – is not something anyone wants to experience. There are a number of different crimes that can fall under this class, including driving under the influence, theft, battery and possession of more than 10 grams of cannabis (but no more than 30 grams). Aside from jail time and fines, you could also be sentenced to community service, probation and substance abuse treatment.
Class B Misdemeanor – Being convicted of a crime like possession of 2.5 grams or more of cannabis, criminal trespass to real property or some types of harassment by telephone can land you up to six months in jail and a possible fine of up to $1500.
Class C Misdemeanor – This lowest level of misdemeanor – possession of less than 2.5 grams of cannabis, for instance – still carries up to 30 days in jail and a possible fine of up to $1500.
As you can see, the consequences of a misdemeanor conviction can be significant. There is really no time to lose in building your defense against the prosecution. Failure to hire an attorney and stand up for your rights could see you punished to the full extent possible.
The Hidden Danger In Traffic Tickets
Because traffic tickets are so common and so easily taken care of – if you are willing to accept the full penalties first presented to you and pay immediately – many people fail to realize that some traffic tickets are in fact misdemeanors. This means they can carry possible jail sentences. Certain speeding tickets, driving without a license and DUIs all fall into this category.
Aside from jail time and fines, you can lose your license and may find the record of your crime follows you around longer than you like. This can make it hard to get hired in certain industries.
If you have been arrested or charged with a misdemeanor, please contact our firm as soon as you can. We are ready to help you get the best possible outcome in your case.
