Gretna Misdemeanors Lawyer
Dedicated Misdemeanor Lawyers Serving Gretna, Louisiana
In Louisiana, criminal offenses classified as misdemeanors carry a penalty of one year or less in jail. Misdemeanors are not considered to be as serious as felonies, but it is still important to fight back against these charges. If you are convicted, you will have a permanent criminal record, which could severely and negatively impact your future. Our Gretna misdemeanors lawyer can provide the legal representation you need to help you beat your charges.
What are Misdemeanor Offenses in Gretna?
Misdemeanor offenses in Gretna are separated into three categories, and they each have their own associated penalties. Class A offenses are as follows:
- Underage consumption of alcohol
- Battery
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- DWI charges
- Possession of between 10 and 30 grams of hemp or cannabis
- Resisting arrest
Class B misdemeanors are not as serious as offenses in Class A, but they still carry harsh penalties. Class B misdemeanors include:
- Criminal trespass
- Possession of between 2.5 and 10 grams of hemp or cannabis
- Harassment by phone
Class C misdemeanors in Gretna are as follows:
- Harassment
- Assault
- Possession of between 2.5 grams and less than ten grams of hemp or cannabis
- Disorderly conduct
- Penalties for misdemeanor offenses
While misdemeanor offenses are less severe than felonies, there is always the potential that you may have to serve jail time. Class A misdemeanors carry the harshest penalties, which are a maximum fine of $2,500 and up to one year in jail. A conviction for a Class B misdemeanor is punishable by a maximum fine of $2,000 and up to 180 days in jail. Class C misdemeanors are punishable by. Up to one month in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000.
Long-Term Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction
While misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, a conviction will still have long-term consequences. Many employers refuse to hire anyone with any type of criminal record, and it can also limit your housing and academic opportunities in the future. In addition to the fines you may have to pay and the jail time you may have to serve, a conviction may also require you to:
- Surrender your driver’s license for many months
- Undergo a substance abuse or anger management program
- Serve probation
- Complete community service
A Gretna misdemeanors lawyer will ensure your constitutional rights are upheld in court and throughout the entire process. A lawyer can also advise on whether a plea bargain in exchange for a lighter sentence is a suitable option for your case.
How Our Misdemeanors Lawyer in Gretna Can Assist with Your Case
At the Law Office of Robert S. Toale, our Gretna misdemeanors lawyer has years of experience successfully helping clients with their criminal charges. We know how intimidating it is to face the serious consequences of a permanent criminal record, jail time, and high fines. We have the necessary knowledge about criminal law to defend your rights and prepare a strategy that can help you get your charges dismissed or reduced. Call or text us now at (504) 368-8440 or chat with us online to schedule a free consultation.