Riverside Criminal Defense Attorney

Felony vs. Misdemeanor Offenses: What's the difference?

When a person is charged with or arrested for a criminal offense, the label of misdemeanor or felony automatically is placed on the offense. For much less dangerous crimes, such as DUI, simple drug possession in some cases, petty theft, and some domestic violence cases, the penalty is associated with a misdemeanor offense. In general, these types of offenses have much less severe consequences, only up to a year in prison and fines up to $1,000 not including any court fees. Additionally, most misdemeanor offenses allow you to waive your appearance in court and simply have your Riverside criminal defense lawyer appear on your behalf.

Felony crimes, on the other hand, are generally associated with much more dangerous and violent offenses, including grand theft, some drug crimes, assault, violent crimes and much more. These offenses do not give you the luxury of having your attorney appear for you – you must show up for these types of hearings. For most of these crimes, long prison sentences are administered and hefty fines are distributed to the defendant. Without a lawyer on your case, you will most likely face the maximum penalties associated with the specific offense you have committed.

Get the Help You Deserve – Call a Riverside Criminal Lawyer

When you have been charged with any type of felony or misdemeanor offense, this will be much different than a simple infraction, as it is with most traffic tickets. While you should retain the services of an attorney for any type of arrest or citation, even a speeding ticket, it is exponentially important to have your lawyer present for a more serious offense. To learn more about the cases we handle and how we can help you challenge charges related to a misdemeanor or felony offense, please call our legal team today!

Contact a Riverside criminal defense attorney to get experienced help with your felony or misdemeanor offense.