Lafayette Misdemeanor Lawyer

Lafayette Misdemeanor Attorney

Misdemeanor offenses have less intense immediate criminal penalties than felonies, which can result in individuals failing to take these offenses as seriously as they should. However, a misdemeanor can still severely affect your life and lead to long-term collateral consequences. You want to work with a Lafayette misdemeanor lawyer if you are facing an arrest or charges for committing a misdemeanor.

A misdemeanor conviction can cost you a lot in fines, leave you imprisoned for days or months, and result in a criminal record for many years or the rest of your life. A criminal record can have consequences on your housing, finances, and job opportunities. By working with a Lafayette criminal defense lawyer, you are more likely to avoid the most significant penalties and potentially avoid a conviction.

The Law Office of R. Scott Iles: Your Lafayette Misdemeanor Lawyer

At the Law Office of R. Scott Iles, we strongly support the rights of those accused of criminal offenses. Every person has the right to legal representation when facing criminal charges, and we believe in providing effective, dedicated, and respectful legal support. With more than 30 years of experience, our firm has the professional connections and resources needed to build you a strong defense.

It can be frustrating and terrifying to face criminal charges. Having someone on your side can make a big difference. The Law Office of R. Scott Iles wants to craft a strong defense to protect you.

What Is a Misdemeanor in Lafayette, LA?

A misdemeanor in Lafayette, LA is any charge that is not a felony. A felony is an offense that has the potential for either hard labor or the death penalty. The criminal penalties for a misdemeanor are typically small jail terms, fines, or both. However, these penalties can be greater for specific offenses. For penalties to be higher in a misdemeanor case, all six jurors must agree on the penalty.

Some misdemeanor offenses include:

• Disturbing the peace
• First offense of driving under the influence (DUI)
• Second offense DUI, except for certain aggravating factors
• Criminal trespass
• Bear wrestling
• First offense voyeurism
• First offense prostitution
• Negligent arson
• Theft of property totaling less than $1,000
• Criminal damage to property totaling less than $1,000
• Simple assault
• Simple battery
• Misdemeanor sexual battery

Misdemeanor offenses, because they are considered less serious charges, are more likely to result in alternate sentencing. This is especially likely when it is the defendant’s first offense and they have a strong legal defense. The judge may allow a misdemeanor charge to be penalized by probation or mandatory diversionary programs.

Misdemeanor offenses can also be worsened by circumstances, and the crime could even be elevated to a felony. It is crucial to work with an attorney to avoid the most severe penalties and mitigate the consequences of a criminal charge on your life.

How Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me With Misdemeanor Charges?

There are several benefits to working with a criminal defense attorney whenever you face criminal charges, even if the charges appear minor. You have the right to legal defense, and you should take advantage of that right.

If you don’t work with an attorney, you face the prosecutor alone. The prosecution will press a charge if they have a good chance of success. Even if you did not commit the crime, you could still find yourself wrongly convicted. Without legal support, you are more likely to face the maximum penalties for the offense you are being charged with.

A defense attorney protects your rights and crafts a strong defense, finding weaknesses in the prosecution’s case against you. They can investigate the crime, your arrest, and the evidence against you. Your attorney can listen to your side of the story and determine what the ideal defense is for your situation. The ideal outcome may be a straightforward defense or a plea deal to mitigate the penalties you face. An attorney can guide you through the options and help you make crucial choices about your future.

Lafayette Misdemeanor Law FAQs

Q: What Is the Punishment for a Misdemeanor in Lafayette, LA?

A: The punishment for a misdemeanor in Lafayette, Louisiana varies based on the offense committed and the unique circumstances of the case. Each offense has its own listed maximum penalties. Simple battery is punishable by jail and/or fines, while simple assault can result in less time in jail and/or lower fines. If the misdemeanor is being charged beyond a maximum sentence in jail and fines, then the penalties must be agreed upon by six jurors.

Q: How Long Can a Misdemeanor Case Stay Open in Lafayette, LA?

A: Once a misdemeanor case has been opened in Lafayette, LA, it does not have a specific time limit. However, prior to charges being filed, there are set time limits beginning from the date of the offense. If the prosecution does not file charges within these time limits, then the offender cannot be prosecuted, tried, or penalized. For misdemeanor offenses punishable only by a fine, this time limit is six months. For misdemeanor offenses punishable by a fine or imprisonment, this time limit is two years.

Q: What Is the Highest Charge of a Misdemeanor in Lafayette, LA?

A: Louisiana does not categorize misdemeanors by classes or any other division, so there is no highest type of misdemeanor, although this may not be the case in local jurisdictions. Each misdemeanor offense has its own listed penalties. Misdemeanors are offenses that are not felonies, which include any offense that does not result in the death penalty or hard labor. Misdemeanors are generally punishable by time in jail and/or fines.

Q: How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record in Lafayette, LA?

A: A misdemeanor remains on your permanent criminal record in Lafayette unless you take action to have it expunged. To expunge a misdemeanor, the following must be true:

1. You have completed your sentence, including imprisonment, parole, or probation.
2. You have paid all fines and restitution ordered of you.
3. There are no pending felony charges against you.
4. There are no pending investigations against you.
5. The waiting period has passed following a sentence, which is five years for misdemeanor convictions.

Some misdemeanors are ineligible for expungement, such as domestic battery and stalking.

Defending Your Rights in Lafayette

If you are facing criminal charges or investigation, contact the Law Office of R. Scott Iles today.