Being charged with a crime can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you're unfamiliar with the different types of charges and their potential penalties. In Tennessee, there are two primary categories of crimes: misdemeanors and felonies. In this blog post, we'll be focusing on misdemeanors, their examples, and penalties. If you or someone you know is facing misdemeanor charges in Tennessee, you need to understand the severity of the charges and the possible consequences.
Firstly, it’s important to understand what a misdemeanor is. In Tennessee, misdemeanors are criminal offenses with less severe punishment than felonies. The offenses usually involve less culpability than felonies and often include nonviolent crimes such as traffic violations, minor drug offenses, and petty theft. Penalties for misdemeanors are less severe than those for felonies but still carry significant punishments depending on the circumstances surrounding the offense.
Secondly, there are different types of misdemeanors in Tennessee, including Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A misdemeanors are the most serious and carry up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Some examples of Class A misdemeanors include domestic assault, reckless driving, and possession of marijuana. Class B misdemeanors carry a potential sentence of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $500. Examples of this type of misdemeanor are shoplifting, disorderly conduct, and driving on a suspended license. Class C misdemeanors generally carry fines of up to $50, but some offenses can carry up to 30 days in jail. Examples of Class C misdemeanors include littering, speeding, and disorderly conduct.
Thirdly, if you are charged with a misdemeanor in Tennessee, it is wise to seek legal assistance from an experienced lawyer. At Durak Law Firm, we have extensive experience representing clients charged with misdemeanors, and we understand the possible consequences of a conviction. By hiring an attorney, we can work to minimize the penalties, help avoid a conviction altogether, and protect your legal rights. We can investigate the evidence against you, interview witnesses, negotiate with the prosecutor, and explore legal defenses that can be raised in your defense.
Fourthly, the penalties for a misdemeanor conviction can be severe. In addition to fines and jail time, you can also face community service, probation, and a criminal record. A criminal record can follow you for life and impact your ability to obtain employment, rent an apartment, and obtain loans. It is therefore crucial to fight the misdemeanor charges or obtain some form of relief or expungement of the records.
Lastly, if you are charged with a misdemeanor in Tennessee, it's important to take swift action and to work with a qualified Tennessee criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal system, explore possible defenses, negotiate a plea bargain, go to trial, or work to minimize any penalties you may face. By doing so, you can obtain a better outcome in your case and move forward with your life.
Facing misdemeanor charges in Tennessee can be scary and overwhelming, but a qualified criminal defense attorney like those at Durak Law Firm can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need. At our law firm, we understand the complex nature of criminal law and can help protect your legal rights and freedom. If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Tennessee, do not hesitate to contact us. We will schedule a consultation to understand your specific legal issues and provide you with the best legal representation possible.
