Misdemeanor Crimes

Although misdemeanors are considered less severe than felonies, a conviction can still have lasting consequences. In fact, some convictions can significantly impact your job, your finances, and your future. At the Fotopoulos Law Office, we understand the encompassing effect that a misdemeanor charge can have on your future. We also understand that lesser charges are not necessarily less frightening. We help you rest easy with the Fotopoulos difference. We prove that dedication and integrity are more than just concepts - they are an experience.

Misdemeanor crimes are categorized into one of three classes - Class A, Class B, and Class C. On the lower end of the criminal scale, you have Class C misdemeanors. On the other end of the spectrum are Class A misdemeanors, which are just one step below a felony. The higher the class, the more severe the penalties usually are. As an example, disorderly conduct, which is a Class C misdemeanor, has a maximum penalty of 30 days imprisonment and fines of no more than $1,500. In contrast, aggravated assault - a Class A misdemeanor - is punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,500. Our attorney aggressively represents clients facing charges under all misdemeanor classifications, including:

• Misdemeanor DUIs,
• Assault and battery,
• Criminal sexual abuse,
• Traffic violations,
• Misdemeanor drug charges, and
• Other misdemeanor charges

Penalties for a misdemeanor charge may vary greatly and are often dependent upon the details and circumstances surrounding each case. Incarceration for up to a year, community service, license suspension, drug court, and fines are all possibilities. A misdemeanor conviction can also set the stage for a future felony charge, should you commit the same offense again. As an example, a first and second DUI conviction might be considered a misdemeanor offense, but a third is usually considered a felony.

Beyond the criminal consequences of a conviction, there are collateral consequences - ways that a conviction impacts your overall quality of life. For example, a misdemeanor conviction can limit your employment opportunities. Though the effect is not generally as severe as a felony conviction, the effect could still impact your financial future. Housing, education, and the risk of criminal profiling are other potential collateral consequences experienced by those convicted of a misdemeanor charge.

While the law often considers a misdemeanor offense as a gateway to a more severe crime, our attorney recognizes that this is not always the case. Your situation could be the result of an honest mistake, misunderstanding, or poorly thought out decision, or you may have just been in the wrong place at the wrong time. Committed to helping you get the second chance you deserve, the Fotopoulos Law Office will aggressively work to protect you from a misdemeanor conviction. To schedule your consultation contact us at 708-942-8400. We assist clients in Orland Park, Tinley Park, Burbank, Oak Lawn, Homer Glen, Mokena, Bedford Park, Palos Heights, and across northern Illinois.