Raleigh Misdemeanor Lawyer
Raleigh Misdemeanor Lawyer
Misdemeanor charges can significantly disrupt your life. While generally not as serious as felony charges, misdemeanors can carry up to 150 days in jail. Some misdemeanor convictions can also result in loss of your job, freedom, and even firearm rights. The Frickey Law Firm has successfully tried hundreds of criminal cases. We will tailor a creative defense strategy to achieve the possible outcome.
Are Misdemeanors Crimes?
Misdemeanors are criminal crimes, and they may be punished with jail time. They may not be felonies, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take them just as seriously. Read more to see just how much damage a single misdemeanor can cause in your life.
Types Of Misdemeanors
There are several types of misdemeanors. The list of North Carolina misdemeanors and their classifications are available by visiting NCCourts.gov. The most common misdemeanors that we fight include:
- Simple assault
- Possessing stolen property
- Threatening people
- Possessing marijuana
- Resisting law enforcement
- Assault by pointing a gun
- Forgery
- And more
Misdemeanor Classes And Penalties
The severity of the crime classifies each misdemeanor. The classes are Class 3, Class 2, Class 1, and Class 1A. They’re organized by severity, with Class 3 being the lowest and Class 1A being the most severe misdemeanor. Class 1A misdemeanors include serious crimes such as sexual battery, assault on a child under 12, assaulting an employee or State officer, and more. Each class of misdemeanor has different penalties, which change depending on the criminal record.
- Class 1A: 150 days, or less, of jail time and a fine which the court decides
- Class 1: 120 days, or less, of jail time and a fine which the court decides
- Class 2: 60 days, or less, of jail time and a maximum fine of $1000
- Class 3: 20 days, or less, of jail time and a maximum fine of $200
A misdemeanor could escalate into more severe charges if gang affiliation, hate, or bias is a motivation. This can cause a Class 3 misdemeanor to become a Class 2 or even a felony. Don’t let misdemeanors affect you for the rest of your life. Contact the Frickey Law Firm for a Raleigh misdemeanor that’ll fight hard for you.
How Does a Misdemeanor Affect You?
Seek help from a Raleigh Misdemeanor Lawyer, or you may have ramifications beyond a jail sentence and fines. Misdemeanors can limit your access to many things, including:
- Job employment: Even with no convictions, a criminal record can impact your chances of getting a job. Employers have the right to investigate and base their hiring decisions on your criminal record.
- Child Custody: Criminal records can reduce your child custody rights.
- Citizenship: A criminal record can stop immigrants from receiving a green card. Misdemeanors can also lead to deportation.
- Higher Education: Universities, like employers, may deny you because of a criminal record.
- Renting: A landlord has the right to deny your application to rent an apartment because of a criminal record.
- Traveling: Some countries may bar you from entry depending on your misdemeanor or how recent it happened.
All these things and more are ways misdemeanors can affect your life. Talk to a Raleigh Misdemeanor Lawyer at Frickey Law Firm if you face charges!
Contact Raleigh Misdemeanor Lawyer Today
It doesn’t matter what class misdemeanor you are facing right now. The Frickey Law Firm fights full-range misdemeanors. We care about you and how your life can be affected by this. It shouldn’t define you or your freedom. We’re committed to fighting for you at an affordable price! Contact us today.
Raleigh Misdemeanor Lawyer: Featured Articles
Misdemeanor FAQs
1. What are the main classes of misdemeanors in North Carolina?
Answer: North Carolina divides misdemeanors into four classes: A1, 1, 2, and 3. Class A1 misdemeanors (such as assault inflicting serious injury) carry the highest potential penalties, while Class 3 misdemeanors (like some minor traffic offenses) carry the least. Although misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, they can still lead to jail time and fines.
2. Could I face jail time for a misdemeanor conviction?
Answer: Yes. Depending on the class of misdemeanor and your prior criminal history, sentencing can include active jail time. Class A1 misdemeanors can result in up to 150 days in jail. Lower-level misdemeanors often carry shorter maximum sentences, but any jail time can disrupt your life. Working with a knowledgeable defense attorney can reduce the likelihood or length of incarceration.
3. Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge?
Answer: Absolutely. Even though misdemeanors are considered “less serious,” a conviction can still result in fines, possible jail time, and a criminal record. A skilled attorney will help navigate the legal process, potentially negotiate a plea, or present a strong defense at trial. Having legal counsel ensures you understand your rights and options every step of the way.
4. Can a misdemeanor be expunged from my record in North Carolina?
Answer: Yes, many misdemeanors (especially non-violent offenses) can potentially be expunged once certain criteria are met. Eligibility usually requires completing all sentencing requirements, plus a waiting period without additional convictions. An expungement can open up better employment or housing opportunities by removing the charge from your public record.
5. How does pleading guilty or “no contest” to a misdemeanor affect me?
Answer: Pleading guilty or no contest (nolo contendere) means you won’t challenge the charges and will accept the resulting penalties—whether that’s probation, fines, or jail time. Although a no-contest plea is not technically an admission of guilt, it is treated similarly to a guilty plea for sentencing. Before you accept any plea, consult an attorney to make sure it is truly in your best interest.
Why Should You Hire The Frickey Law Firm?
Here Are a Few Reasons:
Client-Focused Representation
At Frickey Law Firm, client satisfaction is our top priority. We are available 24/7 to provide dedicated legal assistance when you need it most.
Years of Experience
Attorney Michael Frickey brings years of experience aggressively defending the accused and securing successful outcomes.
Premier Criminal Defense Firm
With a track record of handling high-profile and complex cases, Michael Frickey has built a reputation for excellence in criminal defense.
Premier Criminal Defense Firm
With a track record of handling high-profile and complex cases, Michael Frickey has built a reputation for excellence in criminal defense.
Board Certified Specialist
Mr. Frickey has been honored as a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist, a distinction held by only 3.6% of attorneys in the state.
Proven Track Record
At Frickey Law Firm, we take pride in our case victories and client satisfaction, ensuring each client receives the best possible defense.
Free Initial Consultation
We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and ensure your best interests are represented from the start.
Award Winning
Recognized by Raleigh News and Observer as a 2024 winner for Best in Criminal Defense.
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