Overwhelming. It is likely the first emotion you feel after an arrest. You may also feel confused and scared about the charges against you. Jesse Hernandez, a San Antonio criminal defense attorney can evaluate your charges and help guide you through the legal process. Being informed of your charges and consequences is the first step into designing your defense strategy.
Misdemeanors and Potential Penalties
A misdemeanor is a crime that has a maximum of one year prison time. Each state defines misdemeanors differently, and there are different classifications within the misdemeanors charges. Class A misdemeanors are the most serious kind of misdemeanor and typical examples of those are listed below:
- Assault
- Some DUI/DWI
- Conspiracy
- Some cases of Domestic Violence
- Burglary
- Resisting arrest
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Property theft over $1,000
- Making a false report
- Unlawful possession of a weapon
- Violating a restraining order
Every case is different, however, misdemeanor charges often result in a fine of $500 to $5,000, a maximum of one year in prison, rehabilitation or community service. A San Antonio criminal defense attorney can explain your charges and potential penalties you may be facing.
Felonies and Potential Penalties
Offenses that require more than a year of incarceration are usually classified as felonies and usually result in time in federal prison. Often felonies are crimes of violence but other examples are listed below:
- Murder
- Rape
- Arson
- Sale of illegal drugs
- Grand theft
- Kidnapping
Felonies have the most severe punishments and can range from significant jail time, to in some cases in certain states, the death penalty.
Navigating your Legal Battle
The line can be fairly thin when determining a misdemeanor versus a felony so it is important to communicate all facts accurately to your San Antonio criminal defense attorney. Jesse Hernandez can evaluate your case for free. Contact the Law Offices of Jesse Hernandez today.
