Nevada recognizes simple misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors. Although these are less serious than felony charges, you should take them seriously because if convicted, you may face a jail sentence. A conviction will also impact your future opportunities. Friends may refuse to ride with you after a drunk driving charge or distance themselves after a shoplifting charge.
Do not dismiss misdemeanor charges as inconveniences. Seek competent legal representation from a criminal defense attorney. A Reno misdemeanor lawyer from The Law Office of John Arrascada LLC knows the criminal justice system and can identify the best course of action for you.
Misdemeanors include a wide range of crimes that are considered less serious than felonies. Some examples include:
Those accused of simple misdemeanors are not entitled to jury trials but are entitled to bench trials in which a judge determines their fate.
Our Reno attorney, John Arrascada, has successfully helped individuals avoid misdemeanor convictions by challenging the prosecution’s evidence and presenting strong defenses.
According to Nevada Revised Statutes § 193.150, simple misdemeanor crimes are punishable by up to six months in Washoe County jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Gross misdemeanor convictions, under Nevada Revised Statutes § 193.140, can result in up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
Misdemeanor convictions remain on a criminal record unless the accused asks an attorney to seal the record after a waiting period. A record can impact the person convicted in various ways. For example, they become unable to obtain certain professional licenses and work in certain fields. An employer in the medical field can choose not to hire someone with a misdemeanor drug conviction, and a financial business can disqualify those with theft crimes on their records. To understand the ramifications of misdemeanor charges, consult with a Reno defense lawyer as soon as possible.
When police or deputies arrest a person, they must follow certain protocols. For example, police must have probable cause to obtain a search warrant or to search a person’s vehicle or home. If a person is in custody and being interrogated, failing to read them their rights, including the right to remain silent and to talk to an attorney, violates the Constitution. A competent attorney can work to have unconstitutionally collected evidence dismissed in court.
Other defenses may also include the following:
A Reno attorney can assess your misdemeanor case and help you understand your legal options.
Attorney John Arrascada is a respected and highly qualified negotiator and litigator who has successfully represented hundreds of clients. He is known for personally guiding clients and creating compelling defenses that exonerate clients or get their charges reduced.
You may believe that a misdemeanor charge is not a big deal, but it can have serious consequences. To protect your future, meet with a Reno misdemeanor lawyer from The Law Office of John Arrascada LLC now.
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