Weirton Misdemeanor Attorney

Defending Clients’ Rights & Freedom throughout West Virginia & Ohio

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in West Virginia or Ohio, you should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Many people unwisely fail to take these charges seriously, and it ends up costing them significantly. Not only can these types of crimes result in sizable fines and lengthy prison sentences, but they also stay on a person’s criminal record for life, which can seriously impact an individual’s employment, housing, and education opportunities.

At Isla Law Offices, our Weirton misdemeanor lawyer has more than 25 years of legal experience. As a former Jefferson County Court Judge who heard numerous misdemeanor cases, Attorney Roger A. Isla has a keen insight into the criminal justice system. Our legal team is prepared to help you fight for your rights and freedom both inside and outside the courtroom.

Call (304) 404-7050 or contact us online to begin building your defense today.

Misdemeanor Classes & Sentences

A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony, both in the nature of the offense and the penalties imposed on those convicted. Each state handles misdemeanor classifications in their own way. Many states, like Ohio, classify misdemeanors into categories, or levels, according to the seriousness of the offense. This makes it easier for courts to assign a punishment on a person who is found guilty.

In Ohio, misdemeanors are divided into five classes, including:

• First-degree misdemeanors – include crimes like petty theft, carrying a gun without a permit, and unauthorized use of a vehicle, and is punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000 and up to 180 days in jail
• Second-degree misdemeanors – include crimes like shoplifting, theft, and the sale of drug paraphernalia, and is punishable by a maximum fine of $750 and up to 90 days in jail
• Third-degree misdemeanors – include crimes like negligent assault and loitering for the purpose of prostitution, and is punishable by a maximum fine of $500 and up to 60 days in jail
• Fourth-degree misdemeanors – include crimes like criminal trespass and acts of public indecency, and is punishable by a maximum fine of $250 and up to 30 days in jail
• Minor misdemeanors – include crimes like reckless driving and disorderly conduct, and is punishable by a maximum fine of $150

West Virginia handles misdemeanors differently. Instead of establishing various categories of crimes, sentences are determined on a crime-by-crime basis. For example, the crime of marijuana possession in West Virginia is punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000 and 90 days to six months in jail. Misdemeanor battery, on the other hand, can carry penalties of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $500.

When You Need Serious Defense, Turn to Isla Law Offices

A conviction for a crime, even if it is a misdemeanor, can have severe and long-lasting consequences. Our Weirton misdemeanor attorney is here to help you fight to get your charges reduced or dropped. Begin today with a free consultation to learn what you can expect during the criminal process and what strategy may help you build the strongest possible defense.

Charged with a misdemeanor? Contact us at (304) 404-7050 for trustworthy legal advice and aggressive advocacy today.