Although it’s less serious than a felony, a misdemeanor still shouldn’t be taken lightly. The attorney and support staff at Larry R. Koss Law Firm in Brockport, NY, say such charges still affect people for years. Here, they explain what qualifies as a misdemeanor in the state of New York, the possible consequences, and how you will benefit from hiring a lawyer.

What Qualifies as a Misdemeanor in New York?

Misdemeanor crimes are more serious than minor traffic infractions but not as serious as felonies such as rape and murder. In New York, they include prostitution, issuing a bad check, third-degree identity theft, shoplifting, and first offense DWI charges.

What Are the Penalties?

If convicted, you could receive 15 to 364 days in jail, up to three years on probation, and hundreds of dollars in fines. For example, a first offense DWI conviction carries fines between $500 and $1,000 and up to one year in jail.

When sentencing individuals for misdemeanor offenses, courts try to use alternatives to jail time, such as community service, weekend or part-time jail, diversion programs, or brief probation periods. Misdemeanor convictions remain on people’s records for 10 years and can make it harder to get hired for certain jobs. In some driving-related cases, they can lead to higher insurance rates. 

Why Do You Need an Attorney?

Regardless of how minor the charge seems, you should always hire an attorney. They will advise you of your rights and discuss possible strategies to keep you from pleading guilty unnecessarily. They negotiate favorable plea agreements, fight successfully to dismiss charges, and obtain “not guilty” verdicts. Lawyers also help individuals seal convictions on their records under a recent change in New York law. This means potential employers won’t be able to see you have a record, which can help you find work.

For more than 40 years, Larry R. Koss Law Firm has provided passionate and effective representation in all types of criminal cases. Led by a dynamic attorney, this firm is dedicated to protecting the rights and serving the interests of individuals facing criminal charges. Entrust your case to a skilled and caring criminal defense lawyer. Call (585) 637-3961 to schedule a confidential appointment, and learn more about the firm on Facebook.