Do I Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor Charge?

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor Charge? 

Encountering a misdemeanor charge is something that might not be taken seriously enough, as misdemeanors are generally understood to be lesser offenses. However, a misdemeanor can lead to a charge which can impact life in a variety of ways, underlining the value of a criminal defense attorney like Matt Matthews. Misdemeanor cases are not always simple, with the definition being anything but as provided by the Alabama Criminal Code, which notes that you may be imprisoned for up to a year for committing one. 

The following is a consideration of why an attorney can help obtain the best possible case outcome regarding your misdemeanor charges, namely preserving your freedom by keeping you out of jail and minimizing fines. 

Know the Statute of Limitations 

When you are being charged with a crime, it is important at first to ensure that the crime is being charged within the statute of limitations, which is the period during which the charge is allowed to be filed by the state. In Alabama, the statute of limitations on a misdemeanor crime is 12 months. Should your charge be brought after 12 months from the alleged incident the charge stems from, your case may be dismissible. 

Know the Implications of Guilty Pleas 

Without an understanding of the law and experience with how the courts process cases, it can be difficult to understand what options are available, and how one should plead their charges. If you are facing a misdemeanor charge, you may face fines and imprisonment up to a year, so you may be offered a plea agreement that omits prison time. 

Plea agreements may contain community service and fines instead of jail time, however, plea agreements mean you are pleading guilty. A guilty plea can lead to your having a criminal record, which can be detrimental in both your personal and professional life. A criminal record can prevent you from getting your dream job, keep you from moving into your preferred apartment, and could even affect professional licenses you might have. 

An Attorney Knows What Options are Best For You

In some instances, your misdemeanor charge may be eligible for the deferred prosecution program that is in place in Alabama through the AL Law Enforcement Agency. Only non-felony charges, including misdemeanors, are eligible for this option. Under a deferred adjudication, you might be required to complete a probation program that may include community service and fines, and afterward, the charge is dropped from your record. 

Navigating the charging process and taking advantage of any positive opportunities like deferred adjudication can be difficult. An experienced criminal attorney at your back will result in the best possible outcome for your misdemeanor charge. 

Be Represented by an Experienced Montgomery Criminal Defense Attorney 

The Law Office of Richard F. Matthews, Jr. is ready to help with misdemeanor cases, as well as felonies. Reach out to us on our site to schedule a consultation on your misdemeanor case today. Our team is waiting by and ready to represent your best interests.