Understanding Misdemeanor Charges

by Clearwater Criminal Defense Lawyers George E. Tragos & Peter A. Sartes

Being arrested can be a very stressful experience. Although the officer who made the arrest may have spoken with you about the crimes you were being charged with, you may have not fully grasped the severity of the charges. Crimes have a wide range of consequences depending on the details of the case. Felony offenses are the most serious and usually result in hefty fines and a prison sentence. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are still considered serious crimes, but do not often share the consequences of a felony offense. Misdemeanor charges most often result in large fines and up to one year in a county jail, though this is not always the case. Smaller infractions can result in fines of up to $100 and do not involve any jail time.

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, you will receive a complaint from a prosecutor or given a citation from a law enforcement official. The complaint or citation will contain a date and time that you will be required to appear in court. You will be informed of your rights, informed of the penalties that you face, and be asked whether you plan to plead guilty or not guilty during your first court date.

If you or a loved one is facing misdemeanor charges, it is in your best interest to contact an attorney as soon as possible. A skilled lawyer has the experience to ensure that your rights are properly protected and will help guide you through the complex legal process. Although misdemeanor charges are not considered as serious as felony charges, the consequences of conviction will undoubtedly have a negative impact on all aspects of your life.

When your future depends on the quality of your defense, turn to the Clearwater and Tampa criminal defense lawyers of the Law Offices of Tragos & Sartes. These lawyers have years of experience representing individuals facing misdemeanor charges. Call 727-441-9030 to discuss the details of your case with one of the knowledgeable attorneys at the Law Offices of Tragos & Sartes today.