Misdemeanors - CLIFFORD & HARRIS. PLLC

MISDEMEANOR DEFENSE ATTORNEYS IN GUILFORD COUNTY

Providing options when you are accused of lesser crimes

Misdemeanors are less serious crimes that can still pack a serious punch. It may seem a relief to only be charged with a misdemeanor, but be prepared. Jail time, fines and other penalties mean these “lesser crimes” should not be taken lightly.

The skilled legal representation offered by Clifford & Harris, PLLC can reduce the impact of a misdemeanor charge. Our Greensboro lawyers exert the same degree of skill and effort defending a misdemeanor charge as we do a felony. We draw on more than 65 years of combined criminal law experience to ensure clients receive the best advice and legal counsel, depending on the crime and your past convictions.

As former assistant district attorneys and experienced defense lawyers, our attorneys have had considerable contact with the criminal justice system. We know how police, prosecutors and judges operate and how best to position clients to prevail.

Minor crimes can generate major headaches for clients

Each lawyer at Clifford & Harris, PLLC is proud to provide exemplary criminal defense to adults and juveniles on a wide range of misdemeanor charges, from DWI to theft, including (but not limited to):

Assault
Battery
Criminal traffic violations
Disorderly conduct
Disorderly intoxication
Domestic violence
Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
Petty theft
Possession of drugs
Prostitution
Retail theft
Trespassing
Vandalism
Violation of probation

There are hundreds of misdemeanor crimes in North Carolina. They are divided into four classes, each with its own structured punishment. If you have no prior convictions, the following penalties apply:

Type of penalty/Examples of charges

A1 misdemeanor 1‑60 days – Sexual battery, assault, stalking
Class 1 misdemeanor 1‑45 days – Forgery, larceny, trespass
Class 2 misdemeanor 1‑30 days – Simple assault, indecent exposure
Class 3 misdemeanor 1‑10 days – Theft of cable TV, violation of local ordinances

Despite these seemingly less-severe consequences, a misdemeanor conviction can still wreak havoc on your life, impacting your work and your family. Never forget: jail is still a possibility with a misdemeanor conviction. You also face fines and may be sentenced to community service, special classes, probation or therapy or drug rehabilitation, depending on the crime and your past offenses.

Do not let the fear of a possible felony conviction persuade you to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge. The implications and penalties of misdemeanors are hardly desirable. Let a skilled attorney in Greensboro help you find the best strategy for your situation.

Knowledge and compassion to see you through

Dealing with a misdemeanor matter in Greensboro or High Point may be frustrating. Rely on Clifford & Harris, PLLC for a criminal defense lawyer who protects your interests, no matter the size of your case.

For your convenience, we offer free consultations in our office. We can arrange payment plans and gladly take credit cards.