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PRACTICE AREASMisdemeanor Charges Attorney – Slidell & Metairie
A misdemeanor charge may be considered less serious than a felony, but a conviction can still have significant consequences for your freedom, finances, employment, driving privileges, and future. Depending on the offense and applicable law, a misdemeanor may result in fines, probation, community service, or incarceration. At Frank D’Amico, Jr., we defend individuals facing misdemeanor charges by carefully reviewing the allegations and evidence, identifying potential defenses, and working to protect our clients’ rights and interests throughout the legal process.
Common Misdemeanor Charges
- Simple Assault– Defending individuals accused of intentionally threatening or causing physical harm to another person.
- Disorderly Conduct– Representing individuals accused of disruptive, threatening, or unlawful conduct in public or other settings.
- Petty Theft– Defending allegations involving the unlawful taking of property of relatively low value.
- Criminal Trespassing– Addressing allegations that someone unlawfully entered or remained on another person’s property.
- Simple Drug Possession– Defending individuals accused of possessing a small amount of a controlled substance.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia– Representing individuals accused of possessing items allegedly associated with drug use or possession.
- Domestic Violence– Defending individuals accused of offenses involving a spouse, family member, dating partner, or household member.
- Minor Property Damage– Addressing allegations involving damage or destruction of another person’s property.
- Public Intoxication– Defending individuals accused of being intoxicated in a public place in violation of applicable law.
- Traffic-Related Misdemeanors– Representing individuals facing criminal traffic offenses that may result in fines, license consequences, or other penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor is generally a criminal offense considered less serious than a felony. However, misdemeanor offenses can still result in significant penalties, including fines, probation, and potentially jail time depending on the offense and applicable law.
Can a misdemeanor charge be dismissed?
In some circumstances, a misdemeanor charge may be dismissed because of insufficient evidence, legal or procedural issues, successful completion of a diversion program, or other factors. Whether dismissal is possible depends on the facts of the case and applicable law.
Will I go to jail for a misdemeanor?
Not necessarily. The potential penalties depend on the specific offense, your criminal history, and applicable law. Some misdemeanor cases may result in probation, fines, community service, treatment programs, or other alternatives to incarceration.
Can a misdemeanor affect my employment?
A misdemeanor conviction may appear on certain background checks and could affect employment opportunities, professional licensing, or other aspects of your future. The impact depends on the offense, the employer, and applicable law.
What happens after I am charged with a misdemeanor?
The process may include an arraignment, pretrial hearings, negotiations, motions, and potentially a trial. Your attorney can explain the process and help you understand what to expect based on your specific charge.
Can I get a misdemeanor expunged or sealed?
Some misdemeanor charges may qualify for expungement, sealing, or another form of record relief depending on the outcome of the case and applicable law. Eligibility requirements vary by jurisdiction and offense.
What if I am innocent of the misdemeanor charge?
You have the right to defend yourself against criminal allegations. Frank D’Amico, Jr. can examine the evidence, investigate the circumstances, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop an appropriate defense strategy.
Can I avoid a criminal conviction?
Depending on the circumstances, some defendants may qualify for diversion programs, deferred dispositions, conditional dismissals, or other alternatives. Eligibility varies according to the offense, criminal history, and applicable law.
What should I do if I have been charged with a misdemeanor?
Take the charge seriously, comply with any court requirements, avoid discussing the details of your case publicly, and contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Early legal advice can help you understand your rights and available options.
Do I need an attorney for a misdemeanor charge?
Even though a misdemeanor is generally less serious than a felony, a conviction can still have lasting consequences. Frank D’Amico, Jr. can review the allegations and evidence against you, explain your legal options, identify potential defenses, and work to protect your rights throughout the criminal process.