Indianapolis Misdemeanor Attorney
Why Hire Our Misdemeanor Lawyer in Indianapolis?
If you are facing misdemeanor charges, it’s crucial that you take them seriously and begin mounting a solid defense against them. Your future is on the line. The board-certified criminal trial specialists at The Criminal Defense Team of Baldwin Perry & Wiley PC can review the charges, explain the potential consequences of a conviction, and explain how we can help during a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us today to get started.
What Is a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor is a crime, but it is punished less heavily than a felony. The maximum penalty for a misdemeanor is one year of incarceration. Even though misdemeanor offenses have shorter penalties and do not have the same consequences as a felony conviction, such as the right to own a gun, a misdemeanor conviction can still result in a criminal record and negative consequences on your ability to work and live. Note that if you are being charged with a felony, rather than a misdemeanor, your charges are heavier so reach out to our felony lawyer in Indianapolis to learn more.
Classification of Misdemeanors in Indiana
Indiana classifies misdemeanors into three levels, based on the length of the sentence you can face, as follows:
- Class A misdemeanors: Up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $5,000
- Class B misdemeanors: Up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000
- Class C misdemeanors: Up to two months in jail, a fine of up to $500
In addition to these penalties, you can also be sentenced to probation, community service, and other conditions.
Common Types of Misdemeanor Offenses in Indianapolis
Some of the most common misdemeanor charges that Indianapolis prosecutors file include:
- Battery
- Domestic battery
- Carrying a handgun without a license
- Public intoxication
- Disorderly conduct
- Minor possession of alcohol
- Operating a vehicle while intoxicated
- Possession of marijuana
- Shoplifting
- Criminal deception
- Check deception
- Criminal mischief
- Prostitution
- Solicitation
- Obscene performance
- Public indecency
- Sale of obscene material
- Inappropriate communication with a child
- Interference with child custody
If you are facing criminal charges for a misdemeanor offense, contact our criminal defense law firm for a free case evaluation.
Alternatives to Jail Time
As your misdemeanor attorney in Indianapolis, we want to minimize the negative impact of a criminal conviction on your life. As part of your legal representation, we may explore alternatives to sentencing. One option if you are a first-time offender is to negotiate a diversion. If you qualify, information about the crime will show up as a dismissal. You can later seek to have the offense expunged from your record. We can also try to negotiate a favorable plea agreement with prosecutors so that lesser included offenses are dismissed and any jail time is minimized. The options available in your case will depend on your particular situation, criminal history, and the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Contact Our Indianapolis Misdemeanor Lawyer Today
Let our board-certified criminal trial specialists and former prosecutors help you through this challenging time in your life. Our unique experience and knowledge give us a thorough understanding of the law and insight into how the other side prepares your case. Call The Criminal Defense Team today at (317) 678-9853 to arrange a free case review.