It’s a misconception that misdemeanor charges don’t need to be taken that seriously so you don’t need an attorney to represent you. To save the cost of attorney’s fees, you may think you should simply plead guilty and get it over with.
That’s the furthest thing from the truth.
While it is true that a misdemeanor is not as serious as a felony, imprisonment may still be possible along with substantial fines, penalties and other consequences. Perhaps even worse, a misdemeanor conviction can significantly impact important areas of your life.
A Louisiana misdemeanor consists of crimes that are lesser in degree than felonies, usually considered minor by the courts and society. A misdemeanor in Louisiana is classified as Class A, Class B and Class C because these crimes vary in severity and punishment occurs accordingly.
Louisiana Class A Misdemeanors
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of cannabis or hemp over 10 grams
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)
- Underage consumption of alcohol
- Battery
Class A misdemeanor convictions are punishable by a jail term of not more than one year with a fine of up to $2,500.
Class B Misdemeanors in Louisiana:
- Criminal trespass to properties
- Harassment by phone
- Possession of cannabis or hemp for other 2.5 grams
Class B misdemeanor convictions are punishable by a jail term of up to six months in jail with fines of up to approximately $1,500.
Louisiana Class C Misdemeanors
- Disorderly conduct
- Possession of cannabis of 2.5 grams but not over 10 grams
- Assault
- Harassment
Class C misdemeanor convictions are punishable by a jail term of not more than a month with a fine of up to $1,000.
Jail terms vary according to the Class of the offense as well as fines. If a criminal charge demands more than a year incarceration, it will be classified as a felony.
Other Consequences Of A Misdemeanor Conviction in Shreveport
- Mandatory restitution
- Community service
- Anger management courses
- Addiction therapy and rehabilitation
- License suspension for DUI
Besides the legal consequences of a misdemeanor, your private life may be publicly displayed, and you may have difficulty finding employment, housing, entrance to academic institutions and denied loans not to mention destruction of your reputation.
With all that at stake, a misdemeanor should be challenged by a competent, experienced Shreveport criminal defense attorney. As your attorney, Joseph “Joey” Greenwald Jr., may be able to negotiate reduced charges or a dismissal. If that’s not possible, keeping you out of jail will be a high priority.
Attorney Joseph Greenwald, Jr. knows that decent people sometimes make mistakes and get pulled into an expensive, confusing legal system. Without competent criminal defense representation, if convicted, you may receive a harsher sentence than warranted.
Shreveport attorney Joseph “Joey” Greenwald Jr. has practiced criminal law in Louisiana and Mississippi for nearly twenty years. A dedicated and tireless legal advocate, Greenwald specializes in delivering sound, intelligent counsel and solid results for his clients.
Misdemeanor Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving Shreveport: Greenwald Law Firm Today
For knowledgeable legal assistance with a misdemeanor charge, contact skilled, knowledgeable criminal defense attorney Joseph Greenwald, Jr. for a confidential, no-cost assessment of your unique situation. With a conveniently located office in Shreveport, our attorney at Greenwald Law Firm is immediately available to meet with you. Call 318.219.7867 or send us a confidential message on our contact form.