Raleigh Misdemeanor Lawyer

Types Of Misdemeanor Offenses

Some examples of misdemeanors include:

• Simple possession of marijuana
• City code violations
• Disorderly conduct
• Simple assault
• Communicating threats
• Resisting a police officer
• Carrying a concealed weapon
• Possession of stolen goods

What Are The Penalties For Misdemeanors In North Carolina?

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in Raleigh, it is important to know that misdemeanors are divided into four different categories based on the severity of the offense. Misdemeanors can be charged as a Class A1, Class 1, Class 2 or Class 3 offense. Class A1 misdemeanors are the most serious and include crimes such as assault with a deadly weapon, violation of a restraining order, sexual battery and assault inflicting serious injury, among others.

• Class A1 misdemeanors are punishable by a jail sentence of up to 150 days and a fine determined by the court.
• Class 1 misdemeanors carry a maximum jail term of 120 days and a fine determined by the court.
• Class 2 misdemeanors are punishable by a maximum jail sentence of 60 days and a fine of up to $1,000.
• Class 3 misdemeanors carry a jail term of up to 20 days and a maximum fine of $200.

Keep in mind misdemeanor offenses involving hate, bias or gang affiliation can result in enhanced charges. Depending on the enhancement, prosecutors can charge these offenses one or even two classes higher. For example, if a Class 2 misdemeanor involves a hate crime, the defendant can be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor or even a felony.

Do Infractions Go On Your Criminal Record?

In North Carolina, infractions do not generally go on your criminal record. They are considered noncriminal violations, unlike misdemeanors and felonies. In fact, many traffic offenses are considered infractions.

However, some minor traffic violations may show up as points on your driving record for insurance companies to see. If you are found guilty of an infraction in North Carolina, the court will assess a fine and the payment of court costs.

Depending on the circumstances, there may be a possibility that the infraction could result in a misdemeanor charge which would appear on your criminal record. It is important to speak with an attorney if you are facing this type of situation. An experienced lawyer can help ensure that your rights are protected and that any additional consequences are minimized.

Contact Our Misdemeanor Attorney In Raleigh Today

Being charged with a misdemeanor can put your life on hold. You may face high fines, counseling, losing your driver’s license, seized property and jail time. These consequences can lead to losing your job and make it harder to find work in the future.

A misdemeanor can affect you and your family’s lives, and here at Cotten Law Firm, PLLC our Wake County misdemeanor lawyer will work hard to do what’s best for you and your family. Our knowledge of the North Carolina criminal justice system can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.