What Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do for Your Misdemeanor Charges in Tennessee?
Facing a misdemeanor charge can be a daunting experience for anyone. It can lead to severe legal consequences, including heavy fines, probation, or even jail time. When facing such charges, knowing what you are up against and how to defend yourself in court is essential. In this blog post, we will explain what a misdemeanor offense is, why it is crucial to take it seriously, and what a criminal defense lawyer can do for your misdemeanor charges in Tennessee.
What is a Misdemeanor Offense?
A misdemeanor is a type of criminal offense considered less severe than those classified as felonies. In Tennessee, misdemeanors are organized into classes (C, B, and A - least to most severe, respectively). Because misdemeanors are considered less significant than felonies, many people don't fully appreciate how intense the consequences of a conviction can be. In fact, a misdemeanor conviction can result in a maximum of eleven months and twenty-nine days in jail.
Examples of misdemeanor crimes include:
- DUI
- Assault
- Marijuana possession
- Public Intoxication
- Reckless driving
- Shoplifting
- Theft up to $1,000
- Vandalism
Even Class C misdemeanors can have a long-lasting impact on your future.
More on Why It Is Essential to Take Misdemeanors Seriously
It is vital to take misdemeanor offenses seriously because they can have severe consequences on your future. These impacts extend well beyond the initial fines and potential jail sentences. A misdemeanor conviction can affect your finances, employment, schooling, and family.
Examples of long-term consequences associated with a misdemeanor include:
- Difficulty securing a good job
- Problems when applying for loans, scholarships, and financial aid
- Disqualification from certain academic or professional programs
- Complications with other legal issues, such as family law cases or other criminal cases
Remember, a misdemeanor conviction will go on your criminal record, something many jobs, landlords, and schools look at. With the stakes so high, you are strongly encouraged to consult experienced legal counsel (like the attorneys at S|D Law) if you are facing misdemeanor charges.
What Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do for You?
A criminal defense lawyer can do several things for you if you face misdemeanor charges. First, they can help you understand both the charges brought against you and what the judicial process will entail. This is critical to your ability to confidently make important legal decisions.
Furthermore, your attorney can help you evaluate the strength of the prosecutor's case against you. They do this by reviewing the arrest reports, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the circumstances of your arrest, all of which contribute to building your defense strategy.
Perhaps most importantly, your attorney will also represent you in court, advocating for you with the judge and jury. When appropriate, a lawyer may also represent you in negotiating a plea deal or seeking alternative sentencing options.
Potential Defenses for Misdemeanor Charges
If you face misdemeanor charges, your defense strategy may include several potential defenses. These may consist of a lack of evidence, constitutional violations, mistaken identity, or mistakes made during the investigation or arrest.
No case is the same; your attorney will help you determine which defense strategies are viable for your particular situation, depending on the circumstances of your case.
Facing a misdemeanor charge in Tennessee can be a stressful and challenging experience, but it is essential to know that you have legal options. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case and potentially mitigate the long-term impacts of a misdemeanor conviction on your record. Remember, if you face misdemeanor charges, seek legal representation as soon as possible to protect your rights and fight for your future.
Contact S|D Law today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced lawyers.