Oakland County Misdemeanor Lawyer
In Michigan, a misdemeanor is a less severe criminal offense than a felony. Typically, misdemeanors are crimes punishable by fines and/or jail time not exceeding one year. Unlike felonies, which are more severe offenses with harsher penalties, including imprisonment for more than a year, misdemeanors are considered lower-tier crimes but should still be taken very seriously.
Misdemeanors can significantly impact your future and various aspects of life. Many employers conduct background checks, and a misdemeanor conviction may jeopardize job applications.
If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, you may also be denied a professional license or have a current one revoked. These licenses can range from those for healthcare professionals to educators, lawyers and paralegals, accountants, and public service employees, such as police officers and firefighters.
Misdemeanor convictions can also impact educational prospects; some colleges and academic institutions review an applicant’s criminal history, potentially affecting admissions decisions.
Because of these impacts, we advise seeking legal representation to help you with your defense. At HJP Legal, we have focused on criminal defense for over a decade. Attorney Halley Peters brings strategy and professionalism to your case and works aggressively to minimize the consequences.
Consult with our Oakland County misdemeanor attorney by calling HJP Legal at (734) 593-1688 or contacting us online. Attorney Peters is licensed in Michigan, Florida & California.
Common Misdemeanors in Michigan
Misdemeanors are common criminal charges in the Michigan courts with defendants ranging from teens to senior citizens.
Examples of misdemeanors can include:
- Petty theft: Stealing property under a specified value.
- Public intoxication: Being visibly drunk or under the influence of drugs in a public place.
- Disorderly conduct: Acting in a disruptive manner in public; may include fighting or threatening behavior.
- Driving under the influence (DUI): Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Traffic violations: These can include speeding, driving without a license, and reckless driving.
- Minor drug possession: Possession can include marijuana or other certain controlled substances.
- Domestic assault: Minor physical altercations within a domestic relationship.
Why Choose HJP Legal?
-
Strategic Advice & RepresentationAttorney Halley J. Peters is well-versed in ensuring your legal rights are protected throughout the legal process. They will ensure that the evidence being used against you is obtained legally and within legal boundaries.
-
Minimize PenaltiesCriminal charges can have severe consequences, including losing certain rights, massive fines and penalty fees, and potential incarceration. A skilled criminal defense attorney like Halley J. Peters can help to minimize these penalties or even fight to get the charges dismissed entirely.
-
Clear Communication & TransparencyHalley is here for you every step of the way. She keeps her clients informed and up to date on important developments in their cases, and is readily available to answer any questions or address any concerns that may arise.
-
Legal ExpertiseHalley is an experienced criminal defense attorney with the knowledge, skills, and resources to handle your criminal case. She understands the legal procedures and tactics of the prosecution, allowing her to provide you with the best defense.
Penalties for Misdemeanors
Michigan does not classify misdemeanors, such as Class A or B. However, based on their sentencing, these offenses generally have three types.
- Jail time of up to 93 days: These are the least serious and generally include fines of up to $500.
- Jail time of up to a year: These typically carry a maximum fine of $1,000.
- High court misdemeanors: These are the most serious, with jail time of up to two years. Maximum fines can reach up to $2,000.
In property crimes, Michigan law allows judges to impose fines three times the value of the property that was stolen, damaged, or destroyed. Examples of crimes where this might apply include theft, arson, embezzlement, or malicious destruction.
Repeat offenders in specific misdemeanor offenses can also face felony charges. This can additionally apply in cases where harm or threat of harm is more extensive. For example, a simple assault can be charged as a felony when a weapon is used during the incident.
Judges have wide discretion in misdemeanor sentencing. If the offense is not deemed severe, options such as probation, fines, community service, house arrest, or treatment programs may be ordered instead of jail time. Where injuries or financial losses have occurred, restitution to victims may be imposed.
Deferred Adjudication & Delayed Sentencing
Other sentencing options for judges include deferred adjudication and delayed sentencing, which can significantly alter the outcome. Under certain conditions, these alternatives to immediate sentencing are designed to allow you to avoid a formal conviction on your record.
Deferred adjudication is a court-ordered process wherein the court does not finalize a conviction for a misdemeanor charge. Instead, you are given a set of conditions to fulfill within a specific period. Conditions may include community service, attending educational programs, or undergoing treatment for substance abuse.
If the conditions are successfully met, the charge may be dismissed, thus not appearing as a conviction on your record. This option is particularly beneficial for first-time offenders or individuals committed to rectifying their behavior.
Delayed sentencing is similar to deferred adjudication but distinct in procedure. It allows the court to postpone sentencing following a guilty plea or trial verdict. During the delay, typically six months to a year, you may be required to meet conditions similar to those in deferred adjudication. Completing these conditions can lead to lesser penalties and, occasionally, to the dismissal of charges. Delayed sentencing can provide a critical period to demonstrate your capability for rehabilitation and avoid harsher repercussions.
Both deferred adjudication and delayed sentencing aim to rehabilitate the defendant and prevent future misconduct. They recognize that a permanent criminal record can have profound and long-lasting impacts on an individual's life. By offering these options, Michigan's legal system acknowledges the potential for individuals to learn from their mistakes and make positive changes.
HJP Legal: Dedicated to Helping You Achieve the Most Favorable Results
While not as severe as felonies, misdemeanors can carry consequences that can ripple through your life. Our firm takes every legal measure to help you avoid the negative impact of such charges.
Whether negotiating on your behalf for non-jail options, such as probation, delayed sentencing, or deferred adjudication, Attorney Halley Peters is highly experienced and well-equipped to help you seek the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact us online or at (734) 593-1688 to discuss your case and options with our Oakland County misdemeanor attorney.