Less serious crimes are designated by the legislature as misdemeanors.  They include theft, trespassing, destruction of property, indecent exposure, and drug possession.  Misdemeanors can carry penalties of up to ten years in jail.  However, most misdemeanors will only expose you to 18 months in jail.  They must be taken seriously because convictions can remain on your criminal record permanently and you can also be exposed to upwards of 5 years of probation for a misdemeanor offense.   

Crimes that are more serious are designated by the legislature as felonies.  They include rape, murder, kidnapping, drug distribution, burglary, and assault.  In addition to being exposed to more jail time (up to and including life without parole), there are many consequences to being convicted of a felony.  Below are some of the possible repercussions of pleading guilty to or being convicted of a felony:

• Losing the Right to Vote

• Losing the Right to Own a Firearm

• Being Placed on the Sex Offender Registry

• Eviction from Public Housing

• Ineligibility for Federal Education Loans and Grants

• Ban from Food Stamp Program

• Loss of Employment

If you have been charged with a crime, don't wait for your court date to hire an attorney.  I can make sure you are prepared before you go to court.  In many cases, there are witnesses, business records, or surveillance that can be subpoenaed prior to your court date which can help vindicate you.  In all cases, I can begin negotiations with the prosecutor before you ever set foot in a courtroom. 

If you have been charged with an crime, contact me immediately so I can begin working on your case. 240-476-8168 (call or text)