In North Carolina, there are two classes of crimes with which you could be charged: misdemeanor or felony. Of the two, misdemeanors are the lesser class of crime; they generally result in less severe punishments. Still, being charged with any type of crime is a serious matter, and you will want the assistance of a competent and experienced criminal attorney in Charlotte, North Carolina, at The Khan Law Offices, PLLC. Our attorneys in Monroe, North Carolina, have years of experience combating serious criminal charges.

The punishment that the District Attorney seeks will be heavily dependent on the facts of your case and your criminal history.

• Class 3 misdemeanor: the least serious type of misdemeanor. Carries a maximum penalty of 20 days in jail and a $200 fine. Includes simple possession of marijuana, municipal code violations, other low level crimes.
• Class 2 misdemeanor: carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail and up to a $1,000 fine. Includes disorderly conduct, simple assault, carrying a concealed weapon.
• Class 1 misdemeanor: carries a maximum penalty of 120 days in jail and a discretionary fine. Includes possession of drug paraphernalia, larceny, possession of stolen goods, prostitution.
• Class A1 misdemeanor: the most serious type of misdemeanor. Includes assault with a deadly weapon, sex crimes, violation of a restraining order. Assault on a Female is also a class A-1 Misdemeanor. Carries a maximum penalty of 150 days in jail and a discretionary fine.

Your case will be heard in district court and you will have two options to combat the charges. In one scenario you could plead guilty and then have your attorney negotiate a plea agreement for the least severe punishment possible. The other possibility would be to plead innocent and request that your case go to trial. The state of North Carolina will then have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime with which you were charged. If the judge finds you guilty, he or she will impose a sentence. If convicted, a criminal attorney in Charlotte, North Carolina, can help you evaluate whether or not you should appeal and seek a jury trial.

It is highly advisable to seek advice from a criminal attorney in Charlotte, North Carolina, at The Khan Law Offices right away. Call our office at 704-282-2155 today!