Do You Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor Charge?

 Posted on October 31, 2023 in Criminal Law

Criminal offenses are categorized as either felonies or misdemeanors. Although a misdemeanor carries less severe penalties than a felony, you should still hire an attorney to represent your interests.

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in Illinois, keep reading to learn about the possible penalties you may be facing and the reasons you should hire an Arlington Heights criminal defense lawyer.

What are Considered Misdemeanor Crimes in Illinois?

According to Illinois law, misdemeanors are classified as either Class A, Class B, or Class C. A Class A misdemeanor is the most serious type of misdemeanor, with a Class C being the least serious. 

Examples of misdemeanors in Illinois include:

• Assault and battery
• Possession of marijuana (between 2.5 to 10 grams)
• Retail Theft
• Disorderly Conduct
• DUI (Driving under the influence)

Possible Penalties for a Misdemeanor

A misdemeanor charge could result in prison time, fines, or a combination of both.

For a Class A misdemeanor, you can expect:

• Up to 364 days in county jail
• A maximum fine of $2,500
• Up to two years of conditional discharge or probation

For a Class B misdemeanor, you can expect:

• Up to six months in county jail
• A maximum fine of $2,500
• Up to two years of conditional discharge or probation

For a Class C misdemeanor, you can expect:

• Up to 30 days in county jail
• A maximum fine of $1,500
• Up to two years of conditional discharge or probation

Reasons to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, you need an attorney who can craft the strongest defense. When you hire the Law Offices of Scott F. Anderson, you are hiring an attorney who has a proven track record. 

Here are a few reasons to hire a Rolling Meadows criminal defense lawyer:

To avoid having a criminal record

Being stripped of your civil liberties is no small matter. Although a misdemeanor charge is less severe than being charged with a felony, you could potentially spend up to one year in jail. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will increase your chances of avoiding prison.  

To protect your gun rights

In Illinois, anybody who has been convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor charge or has a domestic violence order of protection against him or her is prohibited from using a firearm. 

If you were previously issued a Firearm Owner’s Identification Card, the state police have the right to revoke it and force you to surrender any firearms in your possession.

You probably don’t understand the legal process

A criminal defense lawyer is well-acquainted with criminal law and will know what motions may apply in your case. A motion is a formal request asking the court to take a certain action. Whether a motion is dismissed or granted can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. 

An Arlington Heights, IL, Criminal Defense Lawyer Advocating for You

A misdemeanor charge can alter the course of your life. You may spend up to 12 months in prison, have to pay excessive fees, and be stuck with a criminal record. This is all after spending weeks or months in court. 

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law] is here to help. Contact a Rolling Meadows, IL, defense attorney today to schedule your free consultation.