list of misdemeanors

Common Misdemeanors and Their Consequences

A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less severe than a felony. Misdemeanors generally carry shorter jail sentences – usually under 1 year – and smaller fines than felonies. However, misdemeanors should still be taken seriously as they can result in criminal records and other consequences.

Types of Misdemeanors

Some of the most common misdemeanors include:

Driving Offenses

• DUI/DWI – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Can lead to license suspension, ignition interlock device requirement, fines up to $1000, and jail time up to 1 year.
• Reckless driving – Driving in a way that shows disregard for safety, such as speeding excessively or making dangerous maneuvers. Can result in fines, license suspension, and jail time up to 60 days.
• Driving without a license/suspended license – Operating a motor vehicle without having a valid driver’s license for that class of vehicle. Can lead to additional license suspension, fines around $500, and jail time up to 6 months.

Drug Possession

Possession of small, “personal use” amounts of illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, or prescription medications without a valid prescription. Penalties vary by state but may include fines up to $1000 and jail time around 1 year.

Public Intoxication

Being drunk or high on drugs in public spaces. Most states have laws against public drunkenness with penalties like fines up to $500 and jail time up to 6 months.

Disorderly Conduct

Acting in a disruptive manner in public such as fighting, excessive noise, offensive language, etc. Fines up to $1000 and jail time around 30 days are common.

Petit Theft

Shoplifting or stealing items worth less than a certain dollar amount, typically under $500. Penalties often include fines up to $1000, probation, and jail time around 1 year.

Trespassing

Entering or staying on private property without permission from the owner. Trespassing charges can lead to fines around $1000 and jail time up to 1 year.

Defending Against Misdemeanor Charges

If you are facing misdemeanor charges, don’t assume that just because they aren’t felonies that the consequences won’t be serious. Here are some tips on building your defense:

• Get a criminal defense attorney – An experienced lawyer can often get charges reduced or even dismissed, minimizing the penalties you face. Public defenders are an option for those who can’t afford private counsel.
• Challenge improper police conduct – If errors were made during your arrest like an unlawful vehicle search or failure to read your Miranda rights, an attorney can often get evidence thrown out or charges dismissed.
• Negotiate plea bargains – Work with your lawyer to negotiate with prosecutors to plead to lesser charges in exchange for dropping more serious ones.
• Dispute breathalyzer results – The accuracy of breathalyzers can be questionable in some cases, giving your lawyer a chance to dispute DUI chemical test results.
• Develop alternate explanations – If you have a different account for what happened, your attorney can present it to prosecutors or a judge in hopes of exoneration or leniency.

While a skilled defense lawyer can help achieve the best outcome, avoiding criminal offenses in the first place is ideal. Understanding laws around issues like drunk driving, drug possession, theft, and trespassing can help you steer clear of misdemeanor charges. But if you do face citations, take them seriously and consult an attorney right away.

Other Common Misdemeanors

While the above covers some of the most prevalent misdemeanors, other minor crimes include:

• Minor assault – Threats or physical violence like shoving where only minor injuries occur
• Harassment – Repeated, unwanted contact that serves no legitimate purpose
• Prostitution – Engaging in or soliciting sexual activity for money
• Indecent exposure – Exposing one’s genitals or private body parts in public
• Perjury – Lying under oath during court proceedings
• Hit and run – Leaving the scene of an accident without providing required information

Penalties for these misdemeanors also typically involve small fines and less than a year in jail. But every state has its own statutes, so specific definitions and sentences can vary.
Having an attorney review your citation is helpful for understanding exactly what you’ve been charged with along with potential consequences. They can also begin building defenses and negotiating on your behalf right away.
The bottom line is not to take misdemeanors lightly just because they aren’t felonies. These minor crimes still bring fines, jail time, probation, criminal records, and other repercussions. So be sure to consult with a lawyer if you face any misdemeanor charges.