What is a misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor is a lesser criminal act in many common law systems. Misdemeanors are generally punished less severely than felonies. Many misdemeanors are punished with fines, but defendants can be subject to jail time. Depending on the jurisdiction, examples of misdemeanors may include, petty theft, prostitution, public intoxication, simple assault, disorderly conduct, trespass, vandalism, and other similar crimes. In the United States, misdemeanors are crimes with a maximum punishment of twelve months in jail. Misdemeanors usually don’t result in the loss of civil rights, but if you are convicted of a misdemeanor, you might find it difficult to obtain a professional license or public employment. People who are convicted of a misdemeanor are often punished with probation, community service, or part-time imprisonment on a weekend basis. Depending on your record, the General Assembly has introduced pieces of legislation’s that would allow criminal defendants to erase or expunge different
There are three general types of offenses: felonies (which can be subject to term in a state prison), misdemeanors (which can be subject to up to one year in a county jail), and infractions (which can be subject to a fine up to $100.00, plus court costs). Procedures for the different categories are somewhat different. You will have been given a citation, or a complaint and summons. The citation or complaint includes a short statement of the offense with which you are charged, and states that the offense is a misdemeanor. The citation or summons states a date and time to appear at the county courthouse for your initial appearance. If you are under 18 years of age, you must have a parent or guardian with you at all court proceedings. Your Initial Appearance (Arraignment) You should arrive 15 minutes before the time shown on your citation or summons, and check in at the magistrate court clerk’s office. Rights Form: You are given a rights form, which has important information about your le
