Misdemeanors

Don’t Take Your New Haven Misdemeanor Charge Lightly – Fight Back

Too often, defendants dismiss misdemeanor charges as minor crimes that are therefore unworthy of concern. It seems simpler and easier to just plead guilty and move on.

Make no mistake, though: a misdemeanor conviction carries serious consequences. All classes of misdemeanors in Connecticut are punishable with jail time, large fines, and probation terms. In addition, being convicted of a misdemeanor crime means you will have a stain on your criminal record that may follow you for the rest of your life.

At The Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph, we are often asked about the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in our state. Connecticut – like most states – typically classifies offenses as either a felony or a misdemeanor crime.

The primary difference between these types of offenses is the way they are penalized: while felonies are punishable by up to a lifetime in prison and up to $20,000 in fines, misdemeanors are punishable by up to a year in jail and up to $2,000 fines.

You can probably already see why some people might not take them as seriously.

However, as a knowledgeable New Haven criminal defense attorney, I can tell you firsthand that it is worth fighting back to avoid a conviction. While the penalties may not be as severe as those attached to felonies, a misdemeanor conviction can still be life-changing – and not in a good way.

Having a criminal conviction on your record is a huge deal and something that can make it far more difficult to do seemingly normal things like getting a job, finding an apartment, or securing a loan. Moreover, if you are ever charged again, having a conviction on your record often increases the charges and penalties that you will face for that offense.

To learn more about the charges you are facing and what you can do to battle them, I encourage you to get in touch with me at The Law Office at Douglas D. Rudolph immeadietly. We provide a free initial case evaluation for all clients in New Haven and the surrounding area.

What is a Misdemeanor Crime in Connecticut?

In our state, a broad range of criminal offenses may be considered a misdemeanor.  Common examples of misdemeanor crimes in Connecticut include prostitution, embezzlement of property valued between $50 and $1,000, or theft of property valued at $500 or under.

Depending on the severity and nature of the alleged crime, you may be charged with a Class A. Class B, Class C, or Class D misdemeanor. Class A misdemeanors are the most serious type of misdemeanor here, while Class D are the least serious.

Take a look at the penalties associated with different classes of misdemeanors below:

• Class A misdemeanor: Penalized by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,000
• Class B misdemeanor: Penalized by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000
• Class C misdemeanor: Penalized by up to three months in jail and a fine of up to $500
• Class D misdemeanor: Penalized by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $250

Note that in addition to Class A, B, C, or D, misdemeanors may be unclassified. If a misdemeanor is unclassified, the penalty will be designated in the statute that defines the offense. In addition, sentencing my change for repeat offenses.

Again, any criminal charges, whether misdemeanor or felony, may result in incarceration, massive fines, career challenges, and a serious social stigma. Finding a skilled legal professional to defend your case will help you understand your charges and minimize your risk of jail time, fines, probation, and a criminal record.

As an experienced New Haven misdemeanor lawyer, I understand the seriousness of criminal charges large and small. If you are facing Connecticut misdemeanor charges, I invite you to contact our law office. I am deeply familiar with Connecticut’s criminal laws and can tell you what to expect in court based on the level of misdemeanor charges facing you as well as your assigned judge and prosecutor.

How to Choose the Right Lawyer for Your New Haven Misdemeanor Case

When battling a Connecticut misdemeanor charge, an experienced lawyer may be the force that stands between you and jail time, huge fines, and a criminal record. The right attorney will not only have the talent and a track record of success but experience handling the specific type of charge you are facing.

The Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph has taken on misdemeanors of all natures and levels of severity, and I have successfully defended numerous clients against misdemeanor charges.

In addition to my experience in Connecticut law, I offer my clients compassionate and customized service. I understand that facing any kind of criminal charges may be the toughest experience you ever undergo and strive to be an ally that is both knowledgeable and empathetic to all my clients.

When you work with the Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph, you get a lawyer and a partner who will treat you like a person of value. Together, we will work to have your Connecticut misdemeanor charges reduced or dropped altogether.

Start Building Your Defense Today: Contact the Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph

Whatever type of misdemeanor charge you are up against, it is in your best interest to talk to a seasoned criminal defense attorney before doing anything else. When it comes to misdemeanor charges in Connecticut, time matters. The initial days after being arrested may have a major impact on the outcome of your case, so you want a lawyer who knows what they are doing by your side as soon as possible.

You do not have to take on the Connecticut legal system on your own. At The Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph, my staff and I are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call, text, or email. Contacting my New Haven law office may be the most important move you make in protecting your rights against Connecticut misdemeanor charges.

Reach out to the Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph in New Haven to learn more about Connecticut misdemeanor charges and possible defense strategies. I offer all prospective clients a free initial case evaluation to decide whether we want to work together. If you think we are a good fit, you can breath slightly easier, knowing you have a compassionate, skilled, and dedicated legal team fighting for your freedom.

Call us today at (203) 343-7579 or contact us online.