How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help NJ Residents Charged with a Misdemeanor
Misdemeanor charges are usually not as serious as felony charges. Those convicted of these charges may receive much lighter sentences. However, every situation is different. If someone is on probation when they are charged with a misdemeanor, they could be facing time in prison. It is necessary for anyone with misdemeanor charges to hire a lawyer that can put up a defense for them. The lawyer will try to prove that the client is innocent. Even if the client is not proven innocent, the lawyer may help the client get a plea deal that drastically reduces his or her sentence.
What Are Misdemeanors?
When charged with a misdemeanor, it usually means that the crime committed was not as severe as crimes that are considered felonies. Some misdemeanors may include public intoxication and shoplifting. Although these charges may not be as serious, there are times when the charges for these crimes are considered felonies because the person committing the crimes is a repeat offender. If someone shoplifts from a store on multiple occasions and gets arrested for it each time, they could easily end up with felony charges.
Different Misdemeanor Classes
Each misdemeanor charge has its own class. The class can range from Class A to Class F based on the situation and where the crime occurred. Anyone accused of committing a crime should be made aware of the classification for their misdemeanor charge. It would let the accused know what could potentially happen in the courtroom and how much time they could be sentenced to if they are found guilty of committing that crime. No matter the classification, hiring a criminal defense attorney is important. It is the best way for the accused to fight the charges and possibly receive a shorter sentence or even no jail sentence at all.
Lighter Punishment Options
When a defense attorney is hired, the attorney will work on fighting against the charges while providing any proof possible that works in favor of the accused. It is not always possible to get the charges dropped, especially when there is a lot of evidence stacked up against the accused. However, lighter punishment options are often considered for those that are first-time offenders. Instead of spending time in jail, the accused may receive an alternative form of punishment, such as probation and/or community service.
Just like lighter punishment options, more severe punishments may be imposed on the accused when they are continuously in trouble with the law. Because these situations are often complicated and frustrating, the accused would need to hire an attorney to help him or her in every way possible.
If you have been charged with misdemeanors and you do not know what is going to happen, hire a defense attorney. You need to put up a defense to fight the charges made against you. A lawyer can explain the classification of each charge and let you know more about the potential consequences that come along with those charges.
Contact an Experienced Westmont Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Misdemeanor Charges in New Jersey
Were you arrested or charged with a misdemeanor in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The Law Office of Jill R. Cohen has successfully represented clients charged with misdemeanors in Westmont, Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester City and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-242-7177 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 210 Haddon Avenue Westmont, NJ 08108.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
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