Being arrested and charged with a crime, no matter how minor it may seem, is a challenging experience. Many people see the adverse effects of encountering trouble with the law but don’t understand how the legal system works. At Hayes Law Firm, our attorney helps protect our client’s rights and ensure they understand the legal proceedings that are ahead. In New Hampshire, categorized misdemeanor and felony crimes are not the same and do not produce the same consequences.
While some misdemeanor charges result in monetary fines, others may also result in at least one year of jail time. Although, felonies are more severe and penalized with heftier fines and prolonged jail time. Despite the kind of charges you are up against, aggressive defense from our legal team may help you walk away with a better future.
What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and A Felony?
State and federal laws address criminal acts in categories to define the severity of a crime and the extent to which the court may prosecute offenders. Many crimes fall under a misdemeanor or felony, whether involving a motor vehicle violation, illegal substance, theft, or other criminal acts. Not understanding the kind of charge one faces after being arrested may cause you stress. If you are arrested in New Hampshire and are unsure of what you may be up against, our attorney can help clarify and navigate your case.
Understanding Misdemeanor Crimes in New Hampshire
Generally, a misdemeanor is typically a charge that can put you in jail for no more than one year. New Hampshire divides its misdemeanors into classes of “A” and “B.” Category “A” misdemeanor charges carry a potential punishment of up to 12 months in jail and up to a $2,000 fine. Crimes such as theft, shoplifting, marijuana possession, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and simple assault are examples of the harsher misdemeanors that may fall under category A.
Category “B” misdemeanors, on the other hand, do not carry any jail time. The maximum punishment for a “B” misdemeanor in New Hampshire is up to a $1,200 fine. These cases are not usually crimes of the century, but they can harm your career and personal life if you are convicted.
Defining Felony Crimes in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, a felony is a charge that can result in imprisonment for more than one year.
New Hampshire divides its felonies into two categories, “A” felonies and “B” felonies. Category “A” felonies are among the most serious crimes with which one can be charged in New Hampshire. These felonies usually carry a maximum sentence of up to 7 ½ – 15 years in prison and up to a $4,000 fine. These kinds of felonies include high–valued thefts, severely injurious assaults, burglaries committed at night, and other crimes. Some category “A” felonies, such as aggravated felonious sexual assaults carry up to 10-20 years in prison.
Felonies listed as category “B”, on the other hand, carry a maximum punishment of 3 ½ – 7 years in prison. Types of crimes that fall under this category and often result in harsh consequences may include computer fraud, possession of illegal substances, subsequent DUIs, or higher-valued theft.
How Can a Felony and Misdemeanor Conviction Affect Me?
Misdemeanor convictions are not as wrong as other crimes, although they are harmless. Felony convictions land people in jail and prove the adverse effects of committing crimes. Regardless of the crime, a conviction affects not only financial and social aspects of life but causes significant stress and limits future opportunities. With an attorney on your side, you may beat the grave penalties of a mistake or misunderstanding.
Life changes resulting from a misdemeanor conviction:
- A misdemeanor may stay on your record forever unless an attorney can expunge the conviction.
- Background checks for jobs and other opportunities may show your conviction record for up to seven years.
- You may be barred from working in an industry job or limited your opportunity to attend school.
- You may not be able to get financial assistance for school or other purchases.
- If you go to jail, your relationships, job, and life are affected.
- Financially, a misdemeanor may cause hardship due to fines and court fees.
Disadvantages of felony convictions on a criminal record:
- Felonies result in jail time, fines, and parole after release.
- Your job, relationships, and schooling may be affected.
- In a DUI or motor vehicle offense, you may lose your driving privileges.
- Felonies can remain on your record.
- Your travel opportunities may be limited.
- You may lose opportunities in housing, employment, or financial aid.
- Felonies may cause you to lose your right to vote or other rights.
- Your relationships and social life may be affected.
Dealing with the consequences of crimes is not easy, but every individual is innocent until proven guilty and has a right to seek legal representation from an attorney. Don’t feel worried or discouraged when you are arrested; contact our legal team for an honest and trustworthy case review and legal defense.
Ways our Attorneys at Hayes Law Firm May Help You After an Arrest
Our legal team is resourceful and dedicated to helping clients within New Hampshire. If you are arrested for a misdemeanor or felony crime, you may be thinking about your options and if it is worth fighting with an attorney on your side. Despite the aggressive nature of the prosecution in a criminal case, your options may not be so limited. With experienced evidence gathering, negotiation, plea bargaining, and other strategies that aid a client in bettering their future, our legal team may be the help you need to walk away feeling at ease.
Challenge the Prosecution’s Claims With a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney at Hayes Law Firm
Criminal cases may be complex and challenging to navigate through alone. Former clients of Hayes Law Firm have benefited from the strategic and experienced defense provided by our attorneys. Defending clients facing DUIs, theft, motor vehicle traffic violations, and other misdemeanors and felonies is our top priority.
Don’t settle for a court-appointed attorney. Our specialized criminal defense attorney understands criminal cases and is available to help you achieve the best outcome for your future. To schedule your free case review, contact our team by completing a contact form or calling 978-314-4950.