New Haven Misdemeanor Lawyer

Criminal acts fall into one of two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Of the two, the consequences of a misdemeanor conviction are much lower. However, that does not mean these charges should not be taken seriously. If convicted of a misdemeanor, you face jail time and fines.

You have the right to legal counsel when facing criminal accusations. Hiring a New Haven misdemeanor lawyer can improve your chances of a favorable outcome. A defense attorney can work to help you avoid a conviction and mitigate the impact of the charges on your life. Before considering any plea offer from the state, speak with Ruane Attorneys about your legal options.

Felony vs. Misdemeanor

There are major differences between different categories of criminal charges, with some carrying steeper consequences than others.

Misdemeanors are the lowest tier of criminal offense according to state law. Even though they carry lower penalties than felonies, these offenses can still lead to incarceration. A misdemeanor can result in a jail term of up to one year. Often, these charges will result in sentences shorter than the maximum allowed by state law.

Felonies carry longer penalties. If convicted, a felony could carry far more than a year in prison in some cases. For serious crimes, a felony could result in a life sentence.

Common Misdemeanor Crimes in New Haven

There are many different misdemeanor offenses recognized under state law. They cover a wide range of behavior, from traffic violations to violent acts. The standard for proving guilt varies from one offense to another. Some common misdemeanor offenses that our local attorneys can defend include but are not limited to:

• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Assault
• Obscenity
• Disorderly conduct
• Public intoxication

Although the maximum penalties for a misdemeanor are lower than for a felony, a conviction can still severely impact a defendant’s life. A criminal record can affect their future opportunities for housing and employment. Working with a New Haven misdemeanor attorney is essential to avoid these negative consequences and protect one’s rights.

Do I Need Legal Counsel for a Misdemeanor Case?

Anyone charged with a misdemeanor has the right to act as their own attorney. However, having the right to do something does not mean it is wise. There are serious risks to acting without legal counsel; a single mistake could have substantial consequences in a criminal case.

Guidance from a New Haven lawyer is valuable even in a misdemeanor case. Legal counsel could help the accused set expectations on how their case might play out, what kind of plea bargain they might receive, and whether an offer is worth considering. At Ruane Attorneys, our legal team can help minimize the impact of misdemeanor charges on a person’s life and future.

Contact a New Haven Misdemeanor Attorney Immediately

Facing misdemeanor charges on your own is risky. The state will likely push you toward an unreasonable plea bargain that gives up your rights. Working with an attorney is essential to ensure your rights are protected.

A New Haven misdemeanor lawyer will advocate for you during this process and fight for your best interests. Call Ruane Attorneys today for a confidential consultation.