Misdemeanor

Misdemeanors are crimes considered and treated less severely than felonies. A single crime, according to the intentions, circumstances, and consequences, may be categorized as a misdemeanor or a felony. Although misdemeanors and felonies are classified into degrees, the distinction between the two consists of the fact that misdemeanors are considered crimes of “low seriousness” while felonies are considered crimes of “high seriousness”. Also, in the majority of jurisdictions around the United States, a misdemeanor is a crime with a maximum sentence of no more than one year in jail, a fine, or both.  Some common misdemeanors include:

·       Possession of small amounts of marijuana

·       Assault

·       Theft

·       Driving While Intoxicated

·       Disorderly Conduct

·       Drug Offenses (Possession of Marijuana, Controlled Substance)

If you are being investigated for or are facing charges for a misdemeanor, it is imperative that you seek legal counsel. Victoria attorney Sierra Hatley will aggressively fight to protect your rights from criminal repercussions, using her years of experience and unmatched knowledge in the field. Contact Hatley Law today for legal advice and representation by calling the Victoria Office at (361) 333-5620.

Although a misdemeanor may take different forms, such as the distinct criminal offenses listed above, two of the most common are Assault and Theft.

Assault: This offense is defined as any verbal or physical attack to another individual. The severity for assaults varies according to the circumstances. In the state of Texas, when the assault involves only mild touching or threatening, it is a Class C Misdemeanor (low severity) for which the penalty does not exceed $500. However, this same class of misdemeanor may be categorized as a more serious misdemeanor if the assault is against an elderly person. Most importantly, a simple assault, for which the penalty does not exceed one year in a county jail and/or a fine of no more than $4,000, can become a serious third-degree felony if the state can prove that the case involves domestic violence or a public servant.

Theft: This offense constitutes taking another’s property without their consent, and with no use of violence either by deception or by physically stealing it. A misdemeanor theft conviction often involves only low fines because the majority of misdemeanor charges do not result in any term of imprisonment. In other cases, the convict may have to pay restitution to the victim. In the state of Texas, however, the punishment for theft charges will vary depending on the value of the item stolen: The greater the value, the higher the penalty. For example, a Class C misdemeanor (theft of an item valued in less than $50 cash or $20 check) results in a fine of no more than $500. A class A misdemeanor (theft of an item valued in the range $500-$1500) results in a penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine of no more than $4,000.  Any theft exceeding $1,500 will be considered a felony.

Why should I contact Sierra Hatley if I am being investigated for a misdemeanor?

Depending on the circumstance and severity of the misdemeanor, a lack of adequate legal representation can cause such an offense to become a felony, and therefore, to be treated and penalized as a felony. This may greatly affect you because the penalties are greater than those of misdemeanors. Penalties for felonies include long incarceration, large fines, loss of professional licenses, etc. However, as opposed to individuals convicted of a misdemeanor, felons lose certain privileges: The right to vote, the right to own a weapon, and the right to receive insurance coverage. It is imperative to hire the competent and zealous representation that Sierra Hatley can provide if you are being investigated or facing charges for a misdemeanor. Your liberty, career, and future are at risk.

What Sierra Hatley Can Do in a Misdemeanor Case

The extensive knowledge Victoria attorney Sierra Hatley brings to the table is a great asset that will work in favor of defending your case. Sierra Hatley will use her knowledge and experience in your favor to ensure that your rights are being protected, to eliminate or reduce any charges due to a misdemeanor, and to protect you from prosecutors seeking to treat your misdemeanor as a felony. If you or a loved one is being investigated or facing criminal charges for a misdemeanor, it is in your best interest to seek legal representation immediately.

Contact Hatley Law today to obtain competent legal advice and representation by calling (361) 333-5620.