What is a misdemeanor?
Crimes that are regarded as less serious are referred to as misdemeanors. A misdemeanor usually is punishable by a fine, or by incarceration in a local jail for a period of less than one year. Prosecutors typically do not convene a grand jury to investigate or issue indictments for misdemeanor charges, although the same conduct may give rise to both felony and misdemeanor charges. Misdemeanors are usually charged by a written complaint, or information. In some states, poor defendants are not entitled to a court appointed attorney when charged only with a misdemeanor. The charges may be considered minor, but being accused of a misdemeanor not to mention being convicted of one can cause a major disruption in the life of an accused. As in any criminal case, it is essential that a defendant in a misdemeanor prosecution have zealous representation backing him or her up. A person accused of a misdemeanor should seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Misdemeanors sometimes
Misdemeanors are offenses of the law that is less serious than felony offenses. They are punishable by a fine, probation, and/or imprisonment in the county jail for not more than one year as opposed to a state prison sentence on a felony charge. The misdemeanor offenses include petit theft, worthless checks, possession of marijuana and marijuana paraphernalia, resisting arrest without violence, battery (domestic violence), and assault. In addition to criminal misdemeanor cases, the county criminal court maintains and files civil infractions. The ordinance violation cases are punishable by a fine or civil penalty. How do I view a misdemeanor court file? Misdemeanor court files can be reviewed in the Clerk’s Misdemeanor Department, suite 203 on the 2nd floor at 33 Market Street in downtown Apalachicola. The office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Information is available on-line. Click here to be connected to the public court search. Put in the information. Click
