Common Misdemeanor Charges in Indianapolis

Although felony crimes get all the headlines, the average person is more likely to be arrested for a minor crime. These common misdemeanor charges may seem less severe at first, but they can have serious outcomes for the defendant and their families.

If you are facing a misdemeanor charge, you have a right to legal representation. Do not make the mistake of thinking an offense is not a big deal or that you can handle it yourself. Even common misdemeanor charges in Indianapolis can turn into major problems without legal advice. At Eskew Law, our misdemeanor defense attorneys are here to give you the assistance you need to keep your minor issue as small as possible.

What Is a Misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor is any criminal offense punishable by one year or less of imprisonment. Misdemeanor charges in Indianapolis frequently involve property crimes, although some minor crimes against people may be considered misdemeanors as well.

The state subdivides misdemeanors into three classes, depending on the maximum amount of time a defendant can receive. Misdemeanor offenders may also receive fines of up to $5,000 and be sentenced to community service and drug rehabilitation or anger management courses.

Common Misdemeanor Offenses

There are a variety of typical misdemeanor offenses in Indianapolis you may be charged with. These include:

• Driving without a valid driver’s license: Often combined with operating a vehicle while intoxicated
• Public intoxication: Usually in connection with disorderly conduct or creating a nuisance
• Simple battery: Touching or hitting someone without moderate or serious injury (if it causes moderate or serious injury, it becomes a felony)
• Petty theft (under $750): Over that amount, the crime is a Level 6 unless it is over $50,000; then it is a Level 5 Felony theft
• Trespassing: Involves remaining on someone else’s property when you have been told to leave (first offense is a misdemeanor, but if you return, it may become a felony)
• Criminal mischief: Can cover anything from graffiti to trashing a building (depending on the extent of the mischief, it can be a felony)

Many misdemeanor offenses do not occur alone. More often, these offenses stack on one another. For instance, if someone is pulled over for driving without a license and is intoxicated, that would be two misdemeanors. This is why you need legal help from a criminal defense attorney. Although each individual charge may not be serious, the combined charges can result in substantial jail time. At a minimum, you could be looking at repeated trips to court, expensive fines, and missed work.

Contact an Indianapolis Defense Attorney About Common Misdemeanor Offenses

Someone facing multiple common misdemeanor charges in Indianapolis should have legal assistance as soon as possible. The attorneys at Eskew Law could develop a solid defense strategy and work with you to minimize the impact on your life. Misdemeanor offenses are often victimless crimes, meaning you are the only person involved in the crime. We may negotiate with the district attorney regarding diversion programs, victim restitution, and other ways to reduce the damage to your long-term record.

We offer free initial consultations for criminal cases. If you are facing criminal charges in the city or anywhere in Indiana, call our office today for a free and confidential case review. Eskew Law is here to help you fight for the best possible outcome in your case.