How bad is a misdemeanor? Many people mistakenly believe that a misdemeanor conviction is not very serious, and when facing misdemeanor charges, they may enter guilty pleas quickly to avoid a trial. They might assume that a misdemeanor on their record will have little effect on their life. In actuality, as a criminal matter, a misdemeanor conviction can cause long-lasting consequences that extend long after the person has completed his or her sentence. Scroll down to learn more about the potential impacts of pleading guilty to a misdemeanor offense.
How Bad Is a Misdemeanor?
Like felony charges, misdemeanors are also serious. The primary difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is the potential sentence that a person who is convicted might receive.
In Arkansas, misdemeanor offenses are divided into four classes under Ark. Code § 5-4-401, including misdemeanor classes A, B, and C and unspecified misdemeanors. For a class A misdemeanor, a convicted person can receive up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both imprisonment and a fine. Oklahoma does not divide misdemeanors into different classes. Instead, OK Stat. § 21-2110 states that people who are convicted of misdemeanors in the state may be sentenced to serve up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both imprisonment and a fine. By contrast, felony convictions can result in prison sentences and more substantial fines.
How Bad Is a Misdemeanor Criminal Record?
Regardless of the seriousness of a crime, a conviction for any misdemeanor crimes means that you will have a criminal record. A criminal record can follow you throughout your life, creating a series of obstacles. If you are later convicted of another crime, the court may sentence you more harshly, potentially including more significant fines or longer jail time, because of your existing record.
A criminal record can also make it significantly more difficult for you to secure employment opportunities. When employers conduct background checks, a misdemeanor conviction can be a major red flag. Some employers will not hire a person who has any criminal record at all. Others may have strict policies against hiring people who have specific types of convictions, such as those related to violence, theft, or fraud. For these and other reasons, even a seemingly minor misdemeanor conviction can harm your ability to develop your career and limit your financial future.
Beyond employment, having a criminal record might also prevent you from entering some types of educational programs in college or obtaining certain student loans. When you apply for an apartment, a landlord might deny your application based on your criminal record, making it difficult to find housing. The long-term consequences are often more far-reaching than people initially realize.
License Consequences
Having certain types of traffic convictions on your record may lead to a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. A misdemeanor conviction may also impact your professional license. Many different jobs require people to meet and maintain high ethical standards, including lawyers, nurses, teachers, government officials, and fiduciaries. If you hold a professional license, you may be required by law to report your conviction to your professional licensing board. Depending on the nature of the offense, your license may be suspended or revoked as a result of a misdemeanor conviction, effectively ending your career in that field.
Relationship Consequences
Criminal convictions, including those for misdemeanor offenses, are generally considered public information. This means almost anyone—from potential employers to new acquaintances—can learn about your misdemeanor conviction through simple background checks. The stigma of having a conviction can impact your relationships at work, your romantic relationships, and even your friendships. A misdemeanor conviction might also cause embarrassment and strain for your children and family members.
Immigration Consequences
The stakes are even higher if you are a lawful permanent resident but not a U.S. citizen. Certain types of misdemeanor convictions can trigger deportation and removal proceedings. If you are facing criminal charges, it is critically important for you to seek legal advice from an experienced criminal defense lawyer about any potential immigration consequences you might face before you plead guilty.
The Importance of Getting Legal Help
A criminal conviction of any type, including a misdemeanor, can have devastating and long-lasting impacts on your life. This makes it essential for you to fully understand both the direct penalties (like fines, probation, or community service) and the collateral consequences of a conviction, as well as your legal rights. Discussing the facts of your case and the options available to you with an experienced criminal defense attorney is a crucial first step.
A skilled lawyer might be able to identify weaknesses or problems with the prosecution’s case against you, allowing them to build a strong defense strategy for you. In some situations, your attorney may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to get the criminal charges dismissed or reduced. In others, they may be able to convince a jury that you are not guilty. Furthermore, a lawyer can advise you on potential future remedies, such as expungement, which is the process of sealing or erasing a criminal record.
When you work with the Law Offices of Craig L. Cook, our attorneys are dedicated to securing the best possible resolution of the charges against you. Schedule a free, confidential consultation today to learn about your options and your rights by calling our office at 479-783-8000 or contacting us online. We offer 24/7 assistance to provide the legal advice you need when you need it most.
