Misdemeanor Criminal Offenses

Misdemeanor Criminal Offenses

This firm represents defendants charged with misdemeanor criminal offenses in Gaston County District Court.  It is worth noting that a good many traffic offenses are categorized as criminal offenses. If you are charged with a misdemeanor crime in Gaston County and want a vigorous defense to safeguard your rights, please give my office a call to set up an appointment to go over your case at no cost to you. Please secure a copy of the ticket/warrant to bring to your consultation. 

Misdemeanor criminal offenses in North Carolina can range from a minor Class 3 (least severe) to a serious Class A1 (most severe). If convicted of a misdemeanor criminal offense in North Carolina, the defendant is punished pursuant to the structured sentencing guidelines of N.C. Gen. Stat. 15A-1340.23.  Punishments can range from a fine only, probation, a split sentence (active jail sentence and probation) or an active jail sentence of up to 150 days of confinement in the Gaston County Jail. Unless a defendant is found not guilty by the court it is required that he/she pay the cost of court.

Anytime that you are charged with a criminal offense it is important to take the matter seriously.  Criminal convictions can cause your loss of freedom and heartache for your family. It is imperative that your rights are safeguarded throughout the process, from the very moment that you are approached by a law enforcement officer through the end of trial.  

Under some circumstances it is possible to get a defendant qualified for Deferred Prosecution (first offenders). Upon successful completion of the deferred prosecution program charges against the defendant are dropped.  Not all criminal offenses are eligible for this program.

Whenever approached by a law enforcement officer it is allowed that you can chose not to engage them unless they have some reasonable articulable suspicion that you are engaged in criminal activity. When approached, always ask if you are being detained or are free to leave.  If not being detained simply walk away. If you are being detained and questioned by a law enforcement officer, never answer questions without your attorney being present. You must assert your 6th Amendment right to an attorney and your 5th Amendment right to remain silent. 

Criminal histories are often evaluated by those in positions of power and can have tremendous negative effect when an applicant applies for employment,  college, volunteer work, etc.

Please call to set an appointment or come by the office during Walk-in hours.