While misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they can still result in harsh penalties and lead to a permanent criminal record. A criminal record can diminish prospects of employment, housing, educational opportunities, and professional licenses in various careers, such as teaching, piloting, real estate, plumbing, nursing, medicine, cosmetology, construction, and more. You will want to ensure that you have a thorough and aggressive defense against your misdemeanor charges to fight back, keep your record clean, and avoid criminal penalties.
Missouri Misdemeanor Classes
In Missouri, misdemeanor charges are arranged into four categories:
- Class A misdemeanors: Maximum penalty of one year in jail and a fine of up to $2000
- Class B misdemeanors: Maximum penalty of six months in jail and up to a $1000 fine
- Class C misdemeanors: Maximum penalty of 15 days in jail and up to a $750 fine
- Class D misdemeanors: Maximum penalty of a $500 fine
Repeat convictions for the same offense or a related offense can result in harsher penalties. For example, a repeat offense of marijuana possession of 10 grams or less will result in a Class A misdemeanor instead of a Class D misdemeanor, which is charged for a first offense. A repeat offense of a Class D misdemeanor of stealing property valued at less than $150 will increase your charge to a Class A misdemeanor or, in the case of three previous convictions, a Class E felony.
Oklahoma Misdemeanor Charges
Oklahoma does not organize misdemeanors into separate categories. Misdemeanor offenses in Oklahoma carry a maximum sentence of up to one year in jail, $500 in fines, or both.
Examples of Oklahoma misdemeanor offenses include but are not limited to:
- DUI
- Shoplifting
- Assault
- Reckless driving
- Petty theft
- Stalking
In some of these cases, fines can exceed $500. Jail times are imposed based on the nature and severity of the crime. For example, simple assault may result in only 30 days in jail, while stalking and petty theft may incur penalties of up to a year of jail time. Repeated offenses can also lead to harsher penalties.
Contact Our Misdemeanor Charge Lawyers Today
If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Missouri or Oklahoma, our attorneys are here to help protect and defend your rights. At Bennett & Gallon, we understand the stress and uncertainty that can come with facing these criminal charges, and that's why we are dedicated to providing aggressive and personalized representation to help you attain the best possible result. We will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected during the entire legal process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your misdemeanor case.
Have you been accused of a misdemeanor offense? Call At Ken Gallon and Associates today at (918) 540-1818 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our misdemeanor charge lawyers in Joplin, Mo & Miami, OK.
