Columbus Ohio Misdemeanor Defense Lawyers
A misdemeanor is a crime that is less serious and carries a lighter punishment than a felony. Punishment for a misdemeanor may be a fine, penalty, forfeiture, or confinement for less than a year in a place other than prison. Community service may also be all or part of a sentence for misdemeanors offenses.
If you are facing a misdemeanor charge, it is wise to retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer, who can protect your rights. The right attorney can often make a significant difference to your case. Attorneys at the law firm of Yavitch & Palmer have broad experience in assisting clients with every type of misdemeanor charge.
Misdemeanors include, but are not limited to the following:
- Domestic Violence
- Disorderly Conduct
- Alcohol Offenses (Underage Drinking, Open Container)
- Assault
- Drug Offenses (Paraphernalia, Abuse, Possession)
- Gambling
- Petty Theft
- Criminal Trespass
- Shoplifting (less than $300)
- Sexual Battery
- Traffic Violations
- Indecent Exposure
Because the gravity of a misdemeanor is substantially less than a felony criminal charge, you may mistakenly think you do not need a criminal defense attorney. However, the adverse effects of a misdemeanor conviction may have greater negative impact than you first imagine.
A large percentage of employers now conduct background checks on job applicants. A misdemeanor on your record can prevent you from getting a job and limit your employment opportunities. Additionally, licensing requirements for many professions include good moral character among the qualifications. Despite educational accomplishments, a misdemeanor conviction may mean that you are denied your occupation if you are a physician, lawyer, nurse, teacher, architect, accountant, police officer, physical therapist, professional engineer, veterinarian, pharmacist, or other professional requiring a license.
Misdemeanor drug and alcohol related crimes may result in loss of your occupational license, or prevent you from obtaining a license to practice your profession. These may include drunk driving charges - DWI, DUI, OMVI and OVI, as well as driving under the influence of controlled substances or intoxicants, carrying or manufacturing false IDs, possession of and/or use of drugs or drug paraphernalia, purchasing and/or providing alcohol for minors, and disorderly conduct, to name a few examples.
A misdemeanor charge can place your occupation, your reputation and home life on the line. And if you are convicted of certain misdemeanors, a subsequent offense may become a felony.
When you have been charged with a misdemeanor and need legal advice, call our office at 614-224-6142 to arrange an appointment and learn how our criminal defense attorneys can help your case.
