Misdemeanor Attorney
in Missoula, MT
When hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney, it is important to consider the qualifications and experience of the attorney. Qualifications to consider for a defense attorney include their law degree, prior experience as a prosecutor or defense lawyer, knowledge of local criminal law and court systems, and familiarity with common defenses in misdemeanor cases. We encourage you to talk with each potential candidate in order to get a better sense of their approach to your misdemeanor case before making your final decision on which attorney to hire.
When You Need A Misdemeanor Lawyer
A misdemeanor crime is classified as a lesser offense than a felony and typically involves less serious injuries in assault cases, less property value stolen, or criminal conduct that is considered less serious than a felony offense. Misdemeanors typically carry maximum fines of $1,000 (although some misdemeanors can carry more severe fines, including fines of $10,000), and maximum jail sentences of 1 year.
Misdemeanor convictions can potentially remain on your permanent record which can affect you far beyond any immediate penalties you may face for the crime. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, it is important to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer that can help you understand your rights and options.
Differences Between a Misdemeanor and Felony
Misdemeanors and felonies are both types of criminal offenses. Misdemeanors may be distinguished from felonies in that they typically carry lesser penalties than felonies.
Misdemeanors are easier to remove from your criminal record as misdemeanors are eligible for expungement whereas felonies are not.
What Are Misdemeanor Penalties?
Misdemeanor penalties include jail time, fines and fees, loss of license, misdemeanor supervison, alcohol and drug classes, group counseling, anger management and more. Depending on the circumstances of your case, hiring an attorney may help you stay out of jail, expunge your criminal record, get the charges reduced or dismissed, challenge the validity of your arrest, uphold your legal rights in court and reduce criminal penalties. Alternative sentencing options such as deferred prosecution agreements or deferred impositions may even result in complete dismissal even if the evidence against you is stong.
What Are Possible Legal Defenses for Misdemeanors?
Defenses for misdemeanor charges include:
Can I Expunge A Misdemeanor Conviction Record?
It is possible to expunge a misdemeanor conviction record in Montana. The attorneys at our law firm have extensive experience in clearing criminal records for both adult and juvenile offenders.
We believe that good people make mistakes and like to help clients get a fresh start provided they’re willing to make a change. Depending on the circumstances of your case, if you are charged with a misdemeanor, hiring an experienced attorney may help you stay out of jail, expunge your record, dismiss charges against you, or challenge the validity of your arrest.