Navigating Misdemeanor Charges in Orland Park, IL
Although misdemeanors are considered less severe than felonies, a conviction can still have lasting consequences. In fact, some convictions can significantly impact your job, your finances, and your future. At Fotopoulos Law Office, we understand the long-lasting effects that a misdemeanor charge can have on your future. We also understand that lower-level charges are not necessarily less frightening. We help you rest easy as you defend against a misdemeanor conviction. We ensure that you will be treated with dedication and integrity, and we will provide effective representation to help you minimize the potential consequences that may affect your life.
Misdemeanor Offenses
Misdemeanor crimes are categorized into one of three classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. The higher the class, the more severe the penalties usually are. Class C misdemeanors are on the lower end of the scale, while Class A misdemeanors are just one step below a felony. As an example, disorderly conduct, which is a Class C misdemeanor, has a maximum penalty of 30 days imprisonment and fines of no more than $1,500. In contrast, aggravated assault is generally charged as a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,500. Our attorney aggressively represents clients facing charges under all misdemeanor classifications, including:
Potential Consequences of a Misdemeanor Charge
Penalties for a misdemeanor charge may vary greatly, and they are often dependent upon the details and circumstances surrounding each case. Incarceration for up to a year, community service, license suspension, drug court, and fines are all possibilities. A misdemeanor conviction can also set the stage for a future felony charge should you be charged with the same offense again. As an example, a first or second DUI conviction might be considered a misdemeanor offense, but a third is considered a felony.
Beyond the criminal consequences of a conviction, there are collateral consequences – ways that a conviction can impact your overall quality of life. For example, a misdemeanor conviction can limit your employment opportunities. Though the limitations you may face are generally not as severe as for a felony conviction, your financial future could be affected. Housing, education, and the risk of criminal profiling are other potential collateral consequences experienced by those convicted on misdemeanor charges.
Contact Our Experienced Orland Park Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer
While the law often considers misdemeanor offenses to be gateways to more severe crimes, our attorney recognizes that this is not always the case. Your situation could be the result of an honest mistake, a misunderstanding, or a poorly thought-out decision, or you may have just been in the wrong place at the wrong time. We are committed to helping you get the second chance you deserve, and we will aggressively work to protect you against a misdemeanor conviction. To schedule your initial consultation, contact us at 708-942-8400. We assist clients in Mokena, Tinley Park, Orland Park, Oak Lawn, Burbank, Palos Heights, Bedford Park, Joliet, Will County, and across northern Illinois.
