Waterbury Misdemeanor Lawyer

Charged with a Misdemeanor?

Although misdemeanor crimes are considered less severe than felonies, they can still lead to serious consequences that can significantly impact your future. If convicted of a misdemeanor, you could face:

• Jail time
• Fines
• A permanent mark on your record
• Immigration complications

During this stressful time, it is crucial to have an experienced Waterbury misdemeanor defense attorney on your side. The Law Offices of Michael T. Barrett is committed to protecting the rights and freedom of those accused of criminal offenses. We work hard to craft solid defense strategies that are designed to reduce or even dismiss our clients’ charges.

Call (203) 448-4431 to discuss your case with a reputable law firm. Contact our Waterbury misdemeanor defense lawyer today to schedule your free consultation.

Misdemeanors Charges in Connecticut

Misdemeanors are usually less severe than felonies but more serious than citations or infractions. They typically involve causing minor injury to people or minor damage to property.

Types of Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor charges can result from a variety of alleged acts, including:

• Petty theft
• Prostitution
• Stalking
• Assault
• Sexual assault
• Breach of peace
• Reckless driving
• Shoplifting
• DUI
• Criminal mischief
• Delivery of drug paraphernalia
• Credit card theft
• Fraudulent use of an ATM
• Issuing a bad check

If you have been accused of a misdemeanor crime, our skilled misdemeanor lawyer in Waterbury can help take care of the legal side of things, while you focus on getting your life back on track.

Misdemeanor Penalties in Connecticut

The penalties that an individual will face for a misdemeanor are determined by the type of crime committed and the circumstances involved. In Connecticut, misdemeanors are typically handled according to a classification system. Some crimes are unclassified and dealt with according to a crime-specific statute.

The classes and sentences for misdemeanor crimes in Connecticut include:

• Class A misdemeanors: Up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $2,000
• Class B misdemeanors: Up to six months in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000
• Class C misdemeanors: Up to three months in jail and a maximum fine of $500
• Class D misdemeanors: Up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of $250

How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record in Connecticut?

A misdemeanor will stay on your record for the rest of your life unless you can get it expunged. An expungement erases your entire Connecticut state criminal record. To apply, you must wait 3 years (for a misdemeanor) or 5 years (for a felony) from the disposition date. Misdemeanors will still show up on background checks when employer's check your background. Even though a misdemeanor will show up on a background check, you can get a Certificate of Employability (COE) or provisional pardon does not erase your criminal record, but having one might make it easier for you to get a job. A provisional pardon or COE makes it illegal for an employer to refuse to hire you just because of your record.

Contact the Law Offices of Michael T. Barrett

If you have been arrested or charged for a misdemeanor offense in Waterbury, our qualified criminal defense firm can help. With more than a decade of experience in criminal law, our team of professionals is equipped with the knowledge and skills to aggressively defend against any misdemeanor charges. When you come to us, you can expect to receive the personalized service you deserve.

Serving Clients throughout New Haven, Hartford & Litchfield Counties

Schedule your free consultation today, by reaching out to our misdemeanor attorney in Waterbury at (203) 448-4431.