Georgia Misdemeanor
Understanding your misdemeanor charge
If you were arrested and were charged with a misdemeanor, immediately contact the HTW&W Law Office. Our accomplished and recognized attorneys defend those charged with misdemeanors and fight for a win in court.
Under our criminal justice system, misdemeanors are crimes that are more serious than infractions, but less severe than felonies. If you do not leave your case in the hands of an experienced attorney, you could be convicted, which means a possible jail sentence of up to 1 year with a minimum 5-day sentence. Since a misdemeanor is not classified as seriously as a felony charge, defendants charged with a misdemeanor will serve their incarceration sentence in a jail facility, not prison. Punishment may also include probation, fines, jail time to be served on weekends and community service.
It is also worth noting that a misdemeanor may count as a “strike” in a state with a “three strikes law.” This is in contrast to felonies which carry imprisonment over 1 year long with much stiffer long-term consequences. Infractions (petty crimes) generally have little to no jail time and minimal consequences.
Some of the most common misdemeanors include: petty theft, vandalism, public drunkenness, prostitution and trespassing. Remember, the HTW&W Law Office is prepared to defend any of these misdemeanor charges you may be facing.
Indirect Consequences of a Misdemeanor
While not as severe as a felony conviction, misdemeanors also carry some cost. For example, if you drive a vehicle to make a living, such as a truck or taxi driver and your misdemeanor relates to driving, you could lose your license and your job. Once your employer finds out about a misdemeanor conviction, they are likely to fire or suspend you. In addition, a misdemeanor may show up if a potential employer conducts a background check. Your misdemeanor charge could affect your ability to seek new employment, even years after your conviction!
How should I approach my misdemeanor charge?
Regardless of the charges against you, you need to contact a qualified defense attorney. The largest criminal defense law firm in Georgia is prepared to examine your case and work to get the results you deserve. Contact HTW&W today!
