There are several types of misdemeanor charges, with each carrying its own sentencing guidelines. Learn more here.
Types of Misdemeanor Charges & Other Criminal Offenses
There are various types of misdemeanor charges and other criminal offenses that might require a legal representative in Illinois. Criminal offenses are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the intensity.
A misdemeanor is the lower of the two criminal law classes. Usually, the penalties for a misdemeanor include a fine or approximately one year in prison or county jail, probation, community service, or a combination of these.
Illinois might alter its laws at any time. You can browse the present variation of any statute on this website. You should be aware that individual court viewpoints impact how these laws are translated and used. That is one reason to speak with an attorney from the Law Offices of Andrew Nickel, LLC if you are worried about actual or prospective criminal charges.
Understanding Criminal Misdemeanor Charges
Criminal misdemeanor charges can occur if you are accused of an illegal activity less severe than a felony that does not mandate a prison sentence. Somebody found guilty of a misdemeanor can be sentenced to the county jail and is usually placed on supervised or unsupervised probation for three to five years.
Depending on the severity, misdemeanors are organized into Class A, Class B, or Class C. Each of the classes has a series of possible sentences or fines. However, the laws associated with some criminal offenses will have a statute of limitations within the time-frame they can be filed.
If you are charged with a misdemeanor in Illinois, it is wise to retain legal advice to ensure you are treated fairly.
What Are Misdemeanor Charges in Illinois?
Depending upon state laws, various classes of offenses might be thought of as misdemeanor charges. In Illinois, as in many states, a criminal offense is dealt with as a misdemeanor if it might be penalized by less than a year in a county jail. Felonies are more major illegal activities that are punishable by a year or more in state prison. Unclassified misdemeanors and minor infractions generally result in a fine.
Class A Misdemeanors
The general sentences for a Class A Misdemeanor in Illinois include the following:
- County jail sentence of less than a year
- Fine between $75 and $2,500
- Probation of up to two years
Developing a robust attorney-client relationship can help if you have previous or subsequent unclassified misdemeanors.
Class B Misdemeanors
A Class B Misdemeanor is a less serious charge that can result in a sentence of:
- County jail sentence of up to six months.
- Fine between $75 and $1,500.
- Probation of up to two years.
The right attorney will plan a criminal defense strategy for obtaining the lowest possible sentence or even an acquittal.
Class C Misdemeanors
Class C Misdemeanors are considered petty crimes, which are the least severe crimes according to Illinois code. Usually, the penalties include:
- A county jail sentence of up to 30 days.
- A fine between $75 and $1,500.
- Probation of up to two years.
The severity of the sentence depends on the strength of your defense and the discretion of the judge.
Are Misdemeanors Criminal Charges?
You may wonder whether misdemeanors are considered criminal charges. Unfortunately, they are, and a conviction will be documented on your criminal record.
Sometimes, however, your legal representative can appear in court at the arraignment on your behalf and enter your plea of “guilty,” “innocent,” or “no contest.” If you plead no contest or guilty, you will need to appear in-person at the sentencing. If you plead innocent, you will need to appear at the trial with your lawyer.
List of Misdemeanor Charges
There are many types of misdemeanor charges, which include but are not limited to the following list of misdemeanor charges:
- Disorderly conduct
- Domestic violence
- Driving with a loud car stereo
- DUI
- Harassment
- Loitering
- Minor in possession of a controlled substance
- Obstructing traffic
- Open container
- Personal injury
- Property crimes like trespassing or vandalism
- Prostitution
- Public intoxication
- Retail theft
- Simple assault of another person
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor crime, you may question how difficult the situation is, the possible effects, and whether you need legal support.
A misdemeanor can result in time in the county jail and fines or social work. Given that convictions never instantly drop off your record, they can significantly affect the rest of your life. You need to hire a misdemeanor criminal law expert in Illinois to receive the best outcomes.
Common Misdemeanor Charges
There are many common misdemeanor charges that one might be accused of. Examples include public indecency or being found in possession of small amounts of drugs. If you have been charged with an offense, a skilled criminal legal representative can help you comprehend the charges and whether your case is a misdemeanor or a felony.
Although misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, a conviction can still have profound effects. Any time you spend in jail could lead to the loss of your personal property and even your job.
Suppose you are dealing with any criminal charges. In that case, you need to get in touch with an Illinois criminal defense lawyer who can safeguard your rights throughout the procedures and help you acquire the most beneficial result possible.
What Common Misdemeanors Are Occasionally Charged as Felonies?
Some clients find it difficult to determine whether their crime is a misdemeanor or a felony. A crime that would usually be charged as a misdemeanor may be elevated to a felony under certain circumstances. These include:
- The person had prior convictions for a similar crime.
- It involved the theft of less than $500 in a church or school.
Other criminal offenses involving commercial, personal, or residential property are typically considered felony charges. They might be regarded as misdemeanors, however, if no one was threatened of being harmed. Examples of this consist of arson or a break-in of a deserted structure.
Why You Should Hire an Attorney in Illinois for Misdemeanor Crimes
If you are guilty of the misdemeanor in Illinois with which you are charged, you need to call a proficient defense lawyer. Even if you are innocent of your charges, it is essential to have an experienced defense attorney in your corner.
As mentioned, a conviction may cause you to incur fines, jail time, and other unsavory effects. You can find additional information here and contact a local Illinois lawyer for legal advice regarding your case.