Jeffrey F. Duke General Practice Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Misdemeanors and Felonies - What Does it Mean to You?

The classification of crime you’re convicted of can have an impact on the length of time you’re incarcerated, the amount of fine you may be asked to pay, and the type of work you can pursue upon release.

A “misdemeanor” is a moderately serious crime that usually results in the payment of a fine and/or some confinement in a city or county jail for less than a year. When you’re found guilty of a misdemeanor – which includes crimes like resisting arrest, public drunkenness, traffic offenses, petty larceny, and simple battery – you’re likely to be charged by written indictment and not given access to a court-appointed attorney (if you’re unable to provide one on your own). In many states, special courts have been created to handle misdemeanor cases expeditiously.

If you have a misdemeanor on your record, you may still be able to serve on a jury, vote, and engage in any profession, including the military.

A “felony” is a serious crime that comes with a prison sentence of more than a year. Felony cases are usually charged upon a grand jury indictment and if defendants aren’t able to afford an attorney, they are appointed one by the state.

Felony crimes include:

• Rape
• Murder
• Kidnapping
• Robbery
• Embezzlement
• Racketeering

If you’re convicted of a felony you can expect to serve time in state or federal prison and may also be asked to pay a fine. Your civil rights will be impacted in that you won’t be able to serve on a jury, you may lose your right to vote, and you won’t be able to serve in the military, own guns, or participate in certain professions.

Texas citizens convicted of criminal behavior will find it difficult to establish gainful employment, which often leads to additional criminal behavior. Once you’re able to look for a job, it’s in your best interest to be straightforward with a potential employer about your criminal record. Businesses today often conduct background checks and the Internet has made it easier than ever to access information about a person’s past. Be clear with a potential employer about how you’ve changed and the skills you can bring to the job.

Re-establishing your life after being convicted of a crime is difficult. Whether you’ve been accused of a misdemeanor or felony, you’ll be asked to pay your debt to society which may include losing some of your civil rights. To ensure that your debt is appropriate to the crime, seek advice from a skilled San Antonio criminal lawyer to help you get through criminal proceedings and get back to your life.

This information is brought to you by the criminal defense law firm in San Antonio office of the Duke Firm, PC, 888-314-5720.