This is the next post in my series on the handling of misdemeanor offenses in Little Rock and other Arkansas areas. My last post provided an overview of topics which this series will be addressing. It also stressed the need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible if you or a family member have been charged. It is important that you retain counsel even though you have not been charged with a felony. This is due to the fact that a misdemeanor can still carry severe consequences. This article will expand upon that point by addressing the common question of whether one can go to jail for a misdemeanor. If you need assistance then contact my office to speak with a lawyer.
Arkansas misdemeanor offenses can result in up to one year in jail
Arkansas misdemeanor offenses can result in up to one year in jail. If a defendant is charged with a Class “A” misdemeanor then they face up to one year of incarceration and fines of up to $1,000. Class “B” offenses can result in up to ninety days in jail and Class “C” offenses can result in up to thirty days in jail. Class “B” and “C” charges can also result in fines. These penalties are in addition to those which may be opposed for other offenses which are charged in conjunction with the misdemeanor. When deciding the amount of time a defendant should serve, the judge will consider the nature of the offense, any prior convictions, and more. It is important to remember that sentencing will be within the discretion of the judge.
Most Arkansas misdemeanors are probationable. Whether or not an accused individual will receive probation is within the discretion of the Court. If a convicted individual receives probation then a sentence will be entered. The individual will not have to serve the sentence, however, while on probation. If they successfully complete their term of supervision then the case will be closed. If they violate the terms of their supervision then the Court may require them to serve the sentence which was originally issued. If the violation of probation involves the commission of a new crime, then the defendant may have to serve time for that offense as well. Whether or not the Court will place a defendant on probation, and whether a judge will revoke supervision, will always depend on the facts of the matter.
Arkansas misdemeanor charges carry consequences which go beyond jail time
If an individual is convicted of a misdemeanor then they will have to deal with longer-lasting consequences. These include being burdened with a permanent criminal record which, in turn, will show up on background checks. Failing a background check can make it difficult to gain approval for a rental application, to obtain employment, and it may be difficult to obtain a professional license or security clearance. By ensuring that your rights are defended from the time you are charged through trial, you help to protect against such consequences.
If you or a family member have been arrested then contact my office today to speak with a Little Rock misdemeanor lawyer. I understand that this is a crucial time in your life. We are devoted to providing quality representation and we believe that everyone is entitled to respect. Contact us online or by telephone today. We also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, and throughout the rest of Arkansas.