Misdemeanor Defense

Misdemeanor Defense in Taney County, Missouri: Protecting Your Rights and Future

Being charged with a misdemeanor in Taney County, Missouri, can be an overwhelming experience. While a misdemeanor is considered a less serious offense than a felony, it can still have significant and lasting consequences. A conviction could lead to jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record, all of which can negatively impact your personal and professional life.

At Scrivner Law Firm, we specialize in defending clients against a wide range of misdemeanor charges. Our goal is to ensure that your rights are protected and to provide you with a solid defense to minimize the impact of these charges on your life. With years of experience in Taney, Stone or Christian county courts, we understand how to navigate the local legal system and are prepared to fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

What Is a Misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is generally considered less severe than a felony but more serious than an infraction. In Missouri, misdemeanors are divided into four categories:

• Class A Misdemeanor: The most serious type of misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines of up to $2,000.
• Class B Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
• Class C Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 15 days in jail and fines of up to $750.
• Class D Misdemeanor: The least serious misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.

While the penalties may seem less severe than those for felonies, they can still have a substantial impact on your life. A conviction may result in jail time, probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record that could affect your job prospects, housing opportunities, and more.

Common Misdemeanor Charges in Taney County

In Missouri, a variety of offenses can result in misdemeanor charges. Some of the most common types of misdemeanor cases we handle at Scrivner Law Firm, include:

1. DUI/DWI: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in a misdemeanor charge if it is your first or second offense. Even a first-time DUI can carry severe penalties, including license suspension, fines, and possible jail time.
2. Possession of Marijuana or Drug Paraphernalia: While marijuana laws are changing across the country, possession of small amounts of marijuana or drug paraphernalia is still a misdemeanor in Missouri. Penalties include fines, potential jail time, and a criminal record.
3. Assault: Simple assault, including fights or physical altercations that result in minor injuries, is often charged as a misdemeanor. Missouri law defines this as intentionally or recklessly causing physical injury to another person.
4. Theft and Shoplifting: If the value of stolen property is under $750, the offense is considered a misdemeanor in Missouri. However, a conviction can still result in jail time, fines, and a permanent record.
5. Domestic Violence: Certain domestic violence charges can be classified as misdemeanors, especially if they involve first-time offenders or incidents with no serious injuries. These cases are highly sensitive and can lead to restraining orders and other legal complications.
6. Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication: Engaging in unruly behavior in public, including being intoxicated, can lead to a misdemeanor charge. While these offenses may seem minor, they can still result in fines, jail time, and a mark on your criminal record.
7. Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License: If you’re caught driving after your license has been suspended or revoked, it’s considered a misdemeanor offense, which can lead to further license suspension, fines, and jail time.

Penalties and Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction

While misdemeanors are not as severe as felonies, they still carry significant penalties that can affect many aspects of your life:

1. Jail Time: Depending on the class of misdemeanor, you could face anywhere from 15 days to 1 year in jail. Even short jail sentences can disrupt your life, causing you to miss work, lose income, and experience damage to your reputation.
2. Fines: Misdemeanor convictions often carry fines ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. These financial penalties can create a lasting burden, especially when combined with court costs and fees for probation or treatment programs.
3. Probation: In some cases, the court may impose probation instead of jail time. While probation allows you to avoid incarceration, it also comes with strict conditions, including regular check-ins with a probation officer, attending treatment or counseling programs, and maintaining employment.
4. Permanent Criminal Record: A misdemeanor conviction will appear on your criminal record, potentially affecting your ability to secure employment, housing, or educational opportunities. Many employers and landlords conduct background checks, and having a criminal record can be a barrier to moving forward in your life.
5. Driver’s License Suspension: Certain misdemeanors, such as DUI or driving with a suspended license, can lead to the loss of your driving privileges for an extended period of time.

How Our Taney County Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Can Help with Your Case

At Scrivner Law Firm, we understand how intimidating it can be to face misdemeanor charges. Even seemingly minor offenses can have major consequences if not handled properly. Our attorney and former prosecutor Dayrell Scrivner is here to help you build a strong defense and achieve the best possible outcome.

We offer personalized legal representation tailored to your unique circumstances. Here are some of the ways we can help defend you against misdemeanor charges:

• Reviewing the Evidence: We will thoroughly investigate your case, looking for weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This includes reviewing police reports, witness statements, and any video footage that may exist.
• Challenging Unlawful Arrests: If you were arrested without probable cause or if your constitutional rights were violated, we can challenge the legality of the arrest and seek to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
• Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, we may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or penalties, helping you avoid the worst consequences of a conviction.
• Taking Your Case to Trial: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to trial and vigorously defend your rights in court. We have the experience and knowledge needed to effectively challenge the prosecution and advocate for your best interests.

Contact Scrivner Law Firm, LLC Today

If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Taney, Stone or Christian counties, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The sooner you speak with an experienced misdemeanor defense attorney, the better your chances of reducing or dismissing the charges. At Scrivner Law Firm, LLC, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with your life.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help defend you against misdemeanor charges.