Misdemeanors

Examples of Class 1 Misdemeanors:

• DUI (Driving Under the Influence) for a first offense
• Assault (non-serious physical harm or the threat of harm)
• Shoplifting (value under $1,000)
• Criminal Damage (damage to property valued under $1,000)

Penalties for a Class 1 Misdemeanor:

• Jail Time: Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines: Up to $2,500, plus surcharges
• Probation: Up to 3 years of probation
• Community Service: The court may order community service
• Additional Penalties: Depending on the offense, additional penalties such as driver’s license suspension (for DUI) or restitution to the victim may apply

Defenses for Class 1 Misdemeanors: If you are facing a Class 1 misdemeanor charge, you have legal rights, and there may be several defenses available depending on the circumstances of your case. Our attorneys at Tamou Law Group will review the evidence, challenge improper police conduct, and negotiate on your behalf to reduce or dismiss charges where possible.

Examples of Class 2 Misdemeanors:

• Reckless Driving
• Criminal Trespassing (on non-residential property)
• Disorderly Conduct
• Prostitution

Penalties for a Class 2 Misdemeanor:

• Jail Time: Up to 4 months in jail
• Fines: Up to $750, plus surcharges
• Probation: Up to 2 years of probation
• Community Service: The court may impose community service as part of the sentence

Defenses for Class 2 Misdemeanors: Even for lesser offenses, it’s important to mount a strong defense to avoid the lasting consequences of a conviction. Tamou Law Group will examine whether the arrest was lawful, whether there are flaws in the prosecution’s case, and negotiate to reduce charges when possible.

Examples of Class 3 Misdemeanors:

• Minor in Possession of Alcohol
• Loitering
• Failure to Appear in Court (for minor offenses)
• Certain Petty Theft Offenses (low value, often under $100)

Penalties for a Class 3 Misdemeanor:

• Jail Time: Up to 30 days in jail
• Fines: Up to $500, plus surcharges
• Probation: Up to 1 year of probation
• Community Service: Courts often impose community service rather than jail time for Class 3 misdemeanors

Defenses for Class 3 Misdemeanors: Class 3 misdemeanors are less severe, but a conviction can still negatively affect your future. Our attorneys will work to minimize the impact on your life, seeking to dismiss the charges or reduce the penalties through negotiation or court advocacy.