Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for Misdemeanor Charges in Dayton?

Misdemeanor offenses cover a broad range of crimes in Ohio. While less serious than felony charges, they involve potentially serious penalties and can impact you for years into the future. To protect yourself, it is important to have an experienced Dayton criminal defense lawyer on your side. The following details some common misdemeanor crimes and the ramifications that can result from each. 

Common Misdemeanor Crimes in Ohio

Any type of criminal charge is a serious matter. This includes misdemeanor offenses. Even otherwise honest and law-abiding people can easily find themselves facing these sorts of charges. Under the Ohio Revised Code, there are four categories of misdemeanor crimes you could be facing, depending on the situation involved: 

• First degree misdemeanors: This is the most serious type of misdemeanor offense. It includes charges such as possession of a gun without a permit, the unauthorized taking of a vehicle, petty theft of property valued under $500, driving under the influence (DUI), domestic violence, and other types of assault crimes. You could also face these charges for a lesser offense if you have been convicted of a second-degree misdemeanor in the past.
• Second-degree misdemeanors: Somewhat less severe but still serious criminal charges, this includes drug manufacturing, possession of drug paraphernalia, property crimes, and shoplifting. 
• Third-degree misdemeanor: These include lesser crimes, such as loitering for the purpose of prostitution, assault crimes that occur without intent, and obstructing the official business of another. 
• Fourth-degree misdemeanor: This category includes charges of public indecency, criminal trespass, and consumption of alcohol by someone in a motor vehicle (other than the driver). 

Penalties You Could be Facing for Misdemeanor Offenses

With any type of misdemeanor charge, it is important to get our Dayton criminal defense lawyers on your side. We can represent you in hearings before a judge in the Montgomery County Criminal Court and negotiate with prosecutors to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If there is clear evidence against you, we may be able to arrange alternative sentencing. This can help you avoid the potentially serious penalties associated with misdemeanor crimes, which include: 

• Heavy fines and payment of court costs;
• Jail sentences varying from between 30 days to one year;
• Mandatory drug and alcohol classes or community service requirements;
• Payment of restitution to victims;
• A permanent criminal record, which will follow you for the rest of your life. 

Get Our Dayton Criminal Defense Lawyers on Your Side

At the Van Noy Firm, we act as a strong legal ally on your side when facing misdemeanor charges in Ohio.  To request a consultation, contact our Dayton criminal defense lawyers today.