Connecticut has two categories of criminal offenses: misdemeanors and felonies. While misdemeanors carry lower penalties than felonies, these offenses should still be taken seriously. You face fines, jail time, and a conviction on your record that can hurt your future prospects.

When facing misdemeanor allegations, it is critical that you speak to a defense attorney right away. A strong defense strategy could help you avoid a conviction and protect your rights. Let a Manchester misdemeanor lawyer at Ruane Attorneys take the lead in your case.

Common Examples of Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors might be a lower level of criminal offenses under the law, but that does not mean these allegations should be taken lightly. Any criminal conviction can have a lifelong impact, even if the convicted person avoids jail time. Some of the most common examples of misdemeanors under state law include the following:

• DUI
• Prostitution
• Shoplifting
• Criminal mischief
• Petty theft

It is worth noting that many misdemeanor offenses could be upgraded to felony charges depending on the circumstances. For example, multiple prior convictions for intoxicated driving will result in a felony DUI charge.

One benefit of working with a Manchester attorney is that they could negotiate with the state to treat a charge as a misdemeanor instead of a felony. The right legal counsel could make a tremendous difference in the outcome of these cases.

Categories of Misdemeanors in Manchester

No two misdemeanor cases are exactly the same. Like felonies, there are different categories of misdemeanors. Each of these categories includes various criminal offenses that carry varying maximum sentences. A local attorney at our firm could work to contest any type of misdemeanor allegation.

Class A Misdemeanors

The most serious form of misdemeanor offense under state law is a Class A misdemeanor. This charge is the highest level of criminal offense that is not considered a felony. Examples of these offenses include third-degree sexual assault and inciting a riot. A conviction for a Class A misdemeanor could lead to a year in jail and fines of up to $2,000.

Class B Misdemeanors

Class B misdemeanors can come with up to six months of incarceration upon conviction. Additionally, these convictions include a maximum fine of $1,000. Public indecency and reckless endangerment are generally Class B misdemeanors, as our Manchester lawyers can explain.

Class C Misdemeanors

Class C misdemeanors include criminal offenses like disorderly conduct or second-degree harassment. These charges have lower maximum penalties compared to Class A or B misdemeanors. A person convicted of one of these offenses will face a maximum jail term of three months and fines of up to $500.

Class D Misdemeanors

The lowest tier of misdemeanors under state law is a Class D misdemeanor. This offense is punishable by no more than 30 days in jail and $250 in fines.

Regardless of the level of misdemeanor, an accused person needs representation from a lawyer at our firm to avoid a conviction and mitigate the potential penalties.

Talk to a Manchester Misdemeanor Attorney Today

After an arrest on any criminal charge, you deserve legal counsel to uphold your rights and protect your best interests. Do not take your case lightly; even a misdemeanor conviction can create a criminal record that hurts your future.

The sooner you talk to a Manchester misdemeanor lawyer, the better your chances of success in your case. Call Ruane Attorneys today to discuss your situation and get the representation you need.