While often considered less severe than felonies, misdemeanors can have significant consequences that many people underestimate. Though they typically carry lighter penalties than felonies, misdemeanors can still result in substantial fines and jail time. Beyond the immediate sentence, a criminal record can impact your life in ways you might not expect.
A misdemeanor charge can affect various aspects of your life, including your relationships with family and friends. It may also create hurdles when applying for education programs or jobs, as a criminal record often surfaces during background checks. That’s why it’s essential to take misdemeanor charges seriously. The experienced attorneys at Wilson, Reives & Doran are here to help you defend your rights and minimize the impact of these charges.
What Is Considered a Misdemeanor in North Carolina?
Common examples of misdemeanors in North Carolina include:
Some offenses, like Driving While Impaired (DWI) or certain traffic violations, can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances.
While misdemeanors generally come with lighter penalties, this doesn’t mean jail time is off the table. North Carolina classifies misdemeanors into different categories, each with its own range of punishments.
Misdemeanors Classifications
North Carolina has four different types of misdemeanors on the books. They vary in severity, but it’s important to look for a firm with experienced misdemeanor defense lawyers if you are charged with any of them.
Class A1 Misdemeanors
Class A1 offenses are the most serious misdemeanors. They are punishable by up to 150 days in jail and a fine determined by the sentencing judge. Class A1 misdemeanors include the following:
Class 1 Misdemeanors
Someone convicted of a Class 1 misdemeanor faces up to 120 days in jail and a fine to be determined by the judge. Class A misdemeanors include the following:
Class 2 Misdemeanors
Class 2 misdemeanors are not as serious as Class A1 and Class 1 misdemeanors, but a conviction can still result in jail time. A person convicted of this type of offense faces up to 60 days in jail and a fine of $1,000. Class 2 misdemeanors include the following:
Class 3 Misdemeanors
The least serious offenses are classified as Class 3 misdemeanors. They are punishable by up to 20 days in jail and a fine of $200. Class 3 misdemeanors include:
Potential Penalties for Misdemeanor Conviction
Depending on the class of misdemeanor and your prior criminal record, penalties may include:
In addition to legal consequences, a criminal conviction could impact your professional licenses, educational pursuits, and overall reputation.
Why You Need an Experienced Misdemeanor Lawyer
Misdemeanor cases may not go to trial as often as felony cases, but having an attorney by your side is still crucial. Whether or not your case reaches trial, a skilled misdemeanor attorney ensures your constitutional rights are protected. At Wilson, Reives & Doran, we are committed to providing comprehensive legal defense, including:
It’s time to contact a misdemeanor defense lawyer.
If you are charged with a crime, the first thing you need to do is contact a misdemeanor defense lawyer who has experience handling a variety of misdemeanor and felony cases. The lawyers at Wilson, Reives & Doran have more than 50 years of combined experience protecting the rights of people who have been charged with criminal offenses.
When your freedom and reputation are on the line, you need the support and tactics of a successful defense lawyer. Wilson, Reives & Doran is ready to gather evidence, question witnesses, and appear in court on your behalf.
If you are facing charges for a misdemeanor defense, contact us today to get the guidance you need.
Call (919) 775-5653 or contact us and set up a consultation to speak with an experienced misdemeanor defense lawyer about your case.