Leesburg Criminal Lawyer
If you have been accused and charged with a crime, you should seek legal counsel to start building your defense as soon as possible. A Leesburg criminal lawyer could mount a robust case on your behalf and work hard to seek mitigation or dismissal of your charges. Reach out to an experienced defense attorney at our firm to learn more about your rights and legal options.
Common Types of Criminal Charges
If someone is convicted of a criminal act, the severity of the penalties they may face depends on the type of charge leveled against them. Common types criminal charges may include:
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Drug possession
- Unlawful carrying of a concealed weapon
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm
- Grand larceny
- Domestic Assault
- Malicious Wounding
- Assault and Battery
Other common charges that may prompt someone to contact a local criminal attorney include battery, drug trafficking, aggravated sexual battery, rape, and homicide.
Misdemeanor Penalties in Leesburg
Criminal misdemeanor charges are separated into four classes. Class 1 misdemeanors represent the gravest charges and Class 4 offenses are the least severe. For example, public intoxication is classified as a Class 4 misdemeanor, while petite larceny is Class 1.
If someone is convicted of a misdemeanor crime, they could face penalties as low as a $250 fine for a Class 4 misdemeanor conviction. Conversely, a Class 1 misdemeanor conviction could lead to a $2,500 fine and one year in jail. Those who have been charged with a misdemeanor criminal offence should retain a lawyer who could advocate for them during legal proceedings.
Penalties for Felony Offenses
Felony charges are reserved for the most severe criminal actions. Class 1 felony charges are accompanied by some of the highest criminal penalties in the state, while Class 6 offenses are the lowest category of felonies.
Class 1 Felonies
There are many criminal offenses that fall into the felony category, ranging from forgery to murder. Murder, for example, is a Class 1 felony, and carries penalties that may include a $100,000 fine and prison sentence of incarceration for life.
Class 2 Felonies
When someone is convicted of a Class 2 felony, such as kidnapping, the legal punishment is no less than 20 years in jail plus a $100,000 fine. Though, the sentence could be as much as lifetime incarceration.
Class 3 Felonies
A Class 3 felony conviction, such as attempted poisoning or malicious wounding, could lead to up to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $100,000.
Class 4 Felonies
Class 4 felonies have a minimum jail term of two years and a maximum period of 10 years. A person convicted of a Class 4 felony, such as embezzlement, could also be ordered to pay a $100,000 fine.
Class 5 and 6 Felonies
Class 5 felonies, such as drug possession, have a maximum jail term of 10 years. However, Class 6 felonies, such as unlawful wounding, have a maximum jail term of only five years. A person convicted of either offenses may also be ordered to pay a fine amount not to exceed $2,500.
There are many alleged offenses that may fit into two or more categories and may constitute a much less serious offense than originally charged. A knowledgeable criminal lawyer can help you navigate the most serious offenses and provide alternative strategies.
Anyone who has been accused of a felony should get in touch with an experienced attorney right away to discuss potential defenses to these criminal charges.
Contact a Leesburg Criminal Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to hire an attorney who is familiar with the laws governing your charges. A Leesburg criminal lawyer could advocate tirelessly on your behalf in pursuit of a positive outcome. Contact us today to schedule a confidential case consultation.
