A misdemeanor charge in Coolidge may not seem serious at first, but a conviction can affect your freedom, employment, and future opportunities. When your rights are at stake, having your Coolidge misdemeanors defense lawyer with Suzuki Law Offices by your side can make all the difference.
With 30+ years of trial experience, your Coolidge criminal defense lawyer is prepared to advocate for your freedom and work toward the best possible outcome, so contact us to discuss your potential defense strategies in a confidential consultation today.
Misdemeanor Charges Commonly Prosecuted in Coolidge
If you were charged with a misdemeanor in Coolidge, the penalties you face depend on the severity of the offense. Some misdemeanors carry fines and probation, while others may result in jail time and lasting consequences. Whether you were accused of shoplifting, reckless driving, or public intoxication, a conviction can impact every aspect of your future.
Shoplifting
Taking merchandise from a store without paying is classified as shoplifting under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1805. If the value of the stolen goods is less than $1,000, shoplifting is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Your Coolidge theft crimes lawyer can assess whether your charges could be reduced or dismissed.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving involves operating a vehicle with a disregard for public safety, such as excessive speeding or weaving through traffic. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-693, reckless driving is a Class 2 misdemeanor, carrying a maximum penalty of four months in jail and a $750 fine.
Multiple reckless driving convictions can lead to a suspended license and additional penalties, including the charge being upgraded to a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Public Intoxication
Public intoxication in Arizona is not a standalone criminal offense, but disorderly conduct charges often apply in these cases. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-2904, causing a disturbance while intoxicated is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which may result in up to six months in jail. If you were accused of aggressive behavior, such as road rage, your Coolidge road rage defense lawyer can review your case and develop a legal strategy.
Law enforcement in Pinal County issues misdemeanor citations or makes arrests depending on the severity of the offense. Misdemeanor arrests may require posting bail before release, while citations typically require a court appearance. Some offenses, such as domestic violence and drug possession, may carry enhanced penalties, including mandatory counseling or increased sentencing.
Committed to providing exceptional legal service to each and every client through integrity, compassion and experience.
Get StartedWhen a Misdemeanor Can Lead to Additional Criminal Charges
A misdemeanor conviction does not always end with fines or probation. Certain actions after a misdemeanor charge can lead to additional legal consequences, increasing penalties, or even upgrading the charge to a felony. Repeated offenses or violations of court orders can result in more severe punishments.
Probation violations can result in additional criminal charges. If you were sentenced to probation and failed to comply with court-ordered conditions, such as completing a treatment program or checking in with a probation officer, you could face additional penalties. The court may revoke probation, impose a jail sentence, or add further restrictions to your sentence.
Failing to appear in court or violating a restraining order can escalate penalties. Missing a scheduled court date may result in a bench warrant, leading to additional charges and possible arrest. Violating a restraining order, even unintentionally, can lead to harsher legal consequences, including increased fines and extended restrictions.
Lawyer Near Me 602-682-5270Criminal Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction in Coolidge
The state categorizes misdemeanors into three separate classifications, each carrying different penalties. Class 1 misdemeanors are generally considered the most serious and can result in jail time, fines, and probation. Class 2 and Class 3 misdemeanors may not result in penalties as serious as those that come with Class 1 misdemeanors, but they can still lead to lasting consequences.
Jail time, probation, and fines vary based on the misdemeanor classification. A Class 1 misdemeanor may result in up to six months in jail, while Class 2 misdemeanors carry a maximum four-month sentence. Class 3 misdemeanors are the least severe but may still result in up to 30 days in jail and fines.
Arizona law outlines the financial penalties for misdemeanor offenses in Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-802. Class 1 misdemeanors often carry fines up to $2,500, while Class 2 misdemeanors carry a maximum fine of $750. Class 3 misdemeanors have a lower fine limit of $500, but additional penalties may still apply. Your Coolidge misdemeanors defense attorney with Suzuki Law Offices can review your charges and explore potential defense strategies to get the charges against you reduced to an infraction or dismissed altogether.
Collateral Consequences of Misdemeanor Convictions
A misdemeanor conviction can impact more than just your criminal record. Employers, landlords, and professional licensing boards may consider a misdemeanor offense when making decisions. Even minor offenses can create obstacles when applying for jobs, renting property, or seeking professional certifications.
Some misdemeanor convictions may also lead to immigration consequences. Non-citizens charged with certain offenses, such as drug-related misdemeanors, may face immigration penalties, including denial of visa applications or potential deportation. If a conviction results in a driver’s license suspension, it may create additional hardships, making it more difficult to maintain employment or complete daily tasks.
Click to contact our Coolidge Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Misdemeanor Case
A misdemeanor charge may seem minor, but how you handle your case can impact the outcome. Making the wrong decisions early on can lead to unnecessary penalties, increased fines, or even upgraded charges. Avoiding the following common mistakes can help protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable resolution:
- Talking to police without a lawyer
- Ignoring court dates
- Accepting a plea deal too quickly
- Posting about your case on social media
Handling a misdemeanor charge correctly can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Simple missteps, such as speaking to the police without representation or missing a court date, can make it harder to defend yourself. Taking the right steps and avoiding these mistakes can help protect your rights and limit the impact of a misdemeanor conviction.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Protect Your Future With Help From a Misdemeanors Defense Lawyer in Coolidge
A misdemeanor conviction can lead to lasting consequences that may impact your life for years to come.
Your misdemeanors defense attorney in Coolidge from Suzuki Law Offices can analyze the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and explore every possible defense strategy. Contact our firm today to begin building your defense.
Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form