Misdemeanor Charges in Northern Virginia
Have you been charged with a misdemeanor in Northern Virginia? Anderson & Mulrine, PLLC, represents clients throughout Northern Virginia in all misdemeanor charges, including:
- Drug possession
- DUI/DWI
- Traffic charges: careless driving, speeding, and reckless driving
- Theft: shoplifting, retail theft, and employee theft
- Domestic assault
- Larceny
- Disorderly conduct
- All other misdemeanor charges
Do Not Take Misdemeanor Charges Lightly
Many people charged with a misdemeanor make the mistake of thinking that a misdemeanor charge is not a big deal. A misdemeanor conviction is a criminal conviction. If you are ever asked on a job or school application if you have been convicted of a crime, you will have to answer yes. A misdemeanor conviction can affect your current employment if your employer finds out, and if you have a professional license you may be required to report your conviction to a licensing board or other professional association in your field.
One factor that people do not take into account in misdemeanor charges is the possible effect it may have if they are ever arrested in the future. While many first-time misdemeanor offenses do not result in a jail sentence, the judicial system is much less forgiving of defendants charged with a second offense.
In Virginia, there are four classes of misdemeanors. The maximum sentence for each is specified below:
- Virginia Class 1 misdemeanor: 12 months in jail, $2,500 fine;
- Virginia Class 2 misdemeanor: six months in jail, $1,000 fine;
- Virginia Class 3 misdemeanor: $500 fine;
- Virginia Class 4 misdemeanor: $250 fine.
Contact an Attorney
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, schedule a free phone or office consultation by calling us at 703-777-1733, or by e-mailing us to contact a lawyer online.
