New Orleans Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer
Crimes are often classified into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Felonies are serious crimes that often result in many years in prison as well as hefty fines. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are much less serious, resulting in less than one year in jail and minimal fines. Many people think of misdemeanors as no big deal, but they can cause a lot more trouble than you may think. They stay on your criminal record forever, and this can affect your future. Many employers will not hire someone with any sort of criminal background, so this can affect your future employment opportunities.
The good news is that if you are accused of a misdemeanor, you can fight it with help from the right legal team. That’s where Palazzo Law Firm comes in. We advocate for your interests and work hard to find the best possible way to resolve your charges. Schedule a free consultation with an experienced New Orleans misdemeanor defense lawyer today.
Common Misdemeanor Offenses
- This refers to driving while intoxicated. A person who is driving recklessly while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or a person who has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle can face DWI charges.
- Simple assault. Assault refers to threatening someone or making someone reasonably fear for their life. Attempting to hit someone could classify as assault.
- Simple battery. Battery is the act of hitting someone, with or without a weapon.
- Petty theft. This is also known as shoplifting, or stealing something from a store. Charges are based on the value of the stolen items.
- Trespassing refers to going onto someone’s property without their permission.
- Public intoxication. This is also known as being drunk in public.
Common Misdemeanor Defenses
There are a couple main defenses that a criminal defense lawyer can prove on your behalf to lessen or even eliminate the charges. Some of these defenses are based on constitutional rights. For example, if the police performed an improper search or seizure to obtain evidence, this is in violation of the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights.
Another type of misdemeanor defense is an affirmative defense. An affirmative defense is when the defendant explains why the criminal charges should be dropped. This affirmative defense will have to be proven using specific facts from the case. Some common defenses used include self-defense, duress, entrapment, and insanity. For example, if you assaulted someone who was trying to break into your home, you could claim self-defense.
Contact Palazzo Law Firm Today
Misdemeanors may seem minor, and while they are not as bad as felonies, they can still leave a mark on your criminal record and make it harder to get a job. Palazzo Law Firm can help defend you from the charges you face. We can help restore your freedoms. Contact a New Orleans misdemeanor defense lawyer today by calling 504-433-1442 or filling out the online form.
