Were you recently charged with a misdemeanor in Maryland? Misdemeanor offenses may sound minor compared to felonies, but a conviction can still lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record. People often underestimate the seriousness of these charges and only later realize how they can influence job prospects, housing opportunities, and more.
In Maryland, misdemeanors cover a broad range of crimes—from simple assault to theft under a certain amount. Even though these offenses carry lighter penalties than felonies, the consequences can still impact your life in many ways.
If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge, it’s crucial to know what you’re up against and the options you have for defense. Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys can guide you through the court process and protect your rights. You can contact us online or call (301) 262-7005 today.
What Is a Misdemeanor Under Maryland Law?
A misdemeanor is a criminal offense considered less severe than a felony. While felonies usually come with potential prison sentences of more than a year, misdemeanors often have shorter jail terms and lower fines. But don’t let that fool you—Maryland courts still treat misdemeanors as crimes that can lead to punishment and a lasting criminal record.
Here are a few key points about misdemeanors in Maryland:
- Penalties often include up to one year in jail: Many misdemeanor convictions allow for a maximum of 12 months in a local detention center rather than a state prison.
- Fines can be significant: Depending on the offense, fines might range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
These convictions also appear on background checks, which can complicate your life even after you complete your sentence. Misdemeanors can show up when you apply for jobs, seek housing, or try to get professional licenses. It’s one reason why taking these charges seriously is so important. You don’t want a momentary mistake to haunt you for years to come.
Examples of Misdemeanor Offenses in Maryland
Misdemeanors in Maryland come in various forms and can address many types of behaviors. While the exact classification depends on state statutes, some common misdemeanor offenses include:
- Simple assault: Allegations of causing minor injury or threatening physical harm to someone else.
- Possession of small amounts of certain drugs: Having small quantities of illegal substances, although specifics vary by substance and quantity.
- Theft under a certain dollar threshold: Stealing property below a set value can be treated as a misdemeanor rather than a felony theft.
- Disorderly conduct: Engaging in disruptive or aggressive behavior in public, disturbing the peace of others.
- Driving under the influence (first offense): A first-time DUI in Maryland can be charged as a misdemeanor, though penalties can still be harsh.
Each offense has its own rules about sentencing and fines, which makes it important to know the details of your particular charge. For example, theft below $1,500 might be one kind of misdemeanor, but theft above that amount could become a felony. An attorney can review your charge and tell you exactly what punishments you might face.
Penalties for a Misdemeanor Conviction
In Maryland, the penalties for a misdemeanor will differ based on the nature of the offense, your criminal record, and the specific laws involved. You might face:
- Jail time: Many misdemeanors carry up to one year in a local jail, though some can bring longer terms if aggravating factors are present.
- Fines: These can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands, depending on the charge and the harm caused.
- Probation: A judge may place you on probation instead of jail time, but you’ll have to follow strict rules. Violating probation can lead to more severe punishment.
- Other conditions: Courts can impose community service hours, mandatory counseling, restitution payments to victims, or restrictions on your behavior and travel.
Misdemeanor penalties can get worse if you have prior convictions or if the crime involves vulnerable victims or repeat behavior. While you might avoid a lengthy prison sentence, serving even a short jail term can disrupt your job, family, and daily life.
Even after finishing your sentence, the mark on your record can affect your life for years. Working with a lawyer can help reduce these consequences or sometimes avoid them altogether if charges can be dismissed.
Contact a Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer for a Free Consultation
A misdemeanor charge in Maryland can lead to serious punishments, along with long-term consequences for your work, family, and life plans. Before you speak to the police again or try to handle the case on your own, get professional legal guidance. A Maryland criminal defense lawyer can stand up for you and answer any questions you might have.