No matter how minor you think charges against you are, you still need to have a lawyer represent you in court if you’re charged with a crime. Although your crime may be a misdemeanor, it can lead to more serious consequences if you’re ever arrested for the same crime again. In addition, being convicted of a misdemeanor can mean spending time in jail and being fined, depending on the type of demeanor it is.
Misdemeanor Classes
In the state of North Dakota, misdemeanors are considered to be crimes with a maximum sentence of one year in jail or prison. However, misdemeanors are grouped into two classifications. Class A misdemeanors are the more serious type and include crimes such as possession of a marijuana paraphernalia or misconduct at a funeral. The second classification, Class B misdemeanors, are considered to be less serious, but you still should seek representation from misdemeanor attorneys in Grand Forks, ND.
Penalties for Misdemeanors
If you are convicted of a Class A misdemeanor, you could be sentenced to a maximum year in jail or prison and be fined up to $3,000. A Class B misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of 30 days in jail and up to $1,500 in fines. With such a wide disparity in sentencing, it is important misdemeanor attorneys present your case to try to keep you from receiving the maximum sentence.
Even though you don’t usually have to account for misdemeanors on employment applications, they still show up on your record if someone does a background check. Depending on the crime, it can keep you from going into the military, holding a civil service job, or getting into college. If you need to consult with misdemeanor attorneys after you’ve been arrested, visit us for more information or call to schedule a consultation.
