MISDEMEANOR DEFENSE
Intermountain Legal is a comprehensive criminal defense practice located in Salt Lake City, Utah. Our experienced attorneys are qualified to handle a range of criminal matters, and regularly assist clients charged with misdemeanors, understanding that even a relatively minor charge can negatively impact a person's life.
Utah Misdemeanor Charges
A misdemeanor is an offense lower than a felony that can be punished with a county jail term of up to one year and/or a fine. Violations of some state laws and many city and county ordinances are classified as misdemeanors. In Utah, misdemeanors are divided into three categories:
- Class A Misdemeanor - Class A misdemeanors include negligent homicide, DUI with injury, theft, assault on a police officer, criminal mischief, and possession of marijuana of more than one ounce and less than 16 ounces. Class A misdemeanor convictions are punishable by up to one year in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.
- Class B Misdemeanor - Class B misdemeanors include assault, resisting arrest, DUI, reckless driving, possession of marijuana under one ounce, possession of drug paraphernalia, shoplifting under $300, trespass of a dwelling, public nuisance, possession of a concealed weapon, and many traffic offenses. Class B misdemeanor charges carry the possibility of up to six months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines.
- Class C Misdemeanor - Class C misdemeanors include public intoxication, not having a valid license, and driving with a suspended license. A class C misdemeanor may be punished by up to 90 days in jail and up to $750 in fines.
Too often, people do not retain legal representation if they have been charged with a misdemeanor; rather, they simply accept their charge and punishment, hoping to put the incident behind them as quickly as possible. What most do not consider, however, is that a misdemeanor conviction, like any criminal conviction, can haunt them for the rest of their lives. In many of these cases, especially first offense cases, the charges could have been argued down or eliminated with effective legal counsel from Intermountain Legal.
Seek Experienced, Dedicated Defense Representation in Salt Lake City
If you or a loved one has been charged with a misdemeanor offense, experienced legal representation can be the difference between a good and bad result. Before simply pleading guilty or no contest to the charges you face, contact Intermountain Legal to discuss your options with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney. During your free initial consultation, we will provide honest, straightforward advice regarding your best course of action.