SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY MISDEMEANORS
Being charged with a crime is a terrifying experience and one that can have a big impact on your future. However, if you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor, you may be wondering whether you need to worry. While it’s true that misdemeanor crimes are less serious than felony offenses, misdemeanors still carry penalties that can impact your life today and your future. To learn more about what to do following a misdemeanor charge, call us at the Whiddon Law office directly today.
What Is a Misdemeanor Crime?
A misdemeanor crime is defined by the Louisiana State Legislature as “any crime other than a felony.” A felony crime, also as defined by the Louisiana State Legislature, is “any crime for which the offender may be sentenced to death or imprisonment at hard labor.” It is clear to see by this definition that felony crimes are indeed more serious and more harshly penalized than misdemeanor crimes.
Common Misdemeanor Offenses in Shreveport-Bossier
Any crime that isn’t a felony offense is a misdemeanor offense. Common criminal acts that may be classified as misdemeanor offenses in Louisiana include:
- Violating a protective order
- Cyberbullying
- Domestic violence
- Defacing property
- Possession of marijuana in small amounts
- Petty theft
- First-offense DWI/DUI
The above list is not inclusive. If you have been charged with a crime and are wondering whether the crime will be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony, call our law firm directly for an explanation.
Misdemeanor Defense in Louisiana
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, you may be wondering whether or not you really need an attorney—after all, are the consequences of a conviction really that serious?
While misdemeanors are less serious than felony crimes, they still carry penalties that can be very disruptive to your life, including large fines and potential jail time. A person convicted of a misdemeanor could also be placed on probation, ordered to engage in community service, or ordered to attend rehabilitation or education classes. A misdemeanor crime on your record can make it hard for you to get certain jobs or live in certain rental units.
When you work with a misdemeanor defense attorney in the Shreveport-Bossier City area, your attorney will be responsible for explaining to you your legal options, helping you to build a case strategy, working with the prosecution to review the evidence against you, ensuring that your Constitutional rights are protected throughout the process, and overall advocating for your best interests. It is your legal right to have competent legal representation when facing criminal charges, and you should absolutely exercise that right.
Call Our Law Office Today
If you are facing misdemeanor charges, don’t take the chance to defend yourself; instead, get the legal help you need and deserve. Our Shreveport-Bossier City misdemeanors attorney knows what you’re going through and what’s on the line for you. To learn more about your legal rights and to speak to a qualified lawyer today, call our law firm directly or tell us more about your case by sending us a message online.