MISDEMEANOR LAWYER IN PITTSBURGH

There are three different types of crimes in Pennsylvania: felonies, misdemeanors and summary offenses. Misdemeanor offenses are crimes that are less serious than felonies, but are more serious than summary or non-traffic offenses. If you are facing a misdemeanor charge in Pittsburgh or Western Pennsylvania, you should work to find a misdemeanor defense attorney in Pittsburgh familiar with defending similar cases. 

WHAT ARE THE CLASSES OF MISDEMEANORS IN PA? 

There are four types or classes of misdemeanor charges in Pennsylvania with differing penalties, including:

  • First-degree misdemeanor: Up to 5 years in jail and a maximum fine of up to $10,000 in fines.
  • Second-degree misdemeanor. Up to 2 years in jail and a maximum of up to $5,000 in fines.
  • Third-degree misdemeanor. Up to 1 year in jail and a maximum of up to $2,500 in fines. 
  • Ungraded misdemeanor. Applies in drug possession cases, with first offense cases being punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $5,000 fine with repeat offenses being punishable by up to 3 years in jail and $25,000 in fines. 

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR MISDEMEANOR OFFENSES?

While misdemeanors carry less maximum jail time than felonies, there are many negative consequences to a misdemeanor conviction, which may include: 

  • Jail time, with mandatory sentences for certain types of crimes
  • Alternative housing or house arrest
  • Probation
  • Forfeiture of gun ownership rights
  • Permanent criminal record without ability to expunge convictions
  • Restitution, court costs and fines
  • Mandatory drug and alcohol evaluation, treatment and screenings
  • Possible eviction from housing
  • No contact orders with individuals and businesses

WHEN CAN I BE CHARGED WITH A MISDEMEANOR IN PA? 

There are many types of charges classified as misdemeanors in Pennsylvania, including: 

CALL THE MISDEMEANOR DEFENSE LAWYERS OF THE ZUCKERMAN LAW FIRM 

If you or a loved one are looking for a misdemeanor attorney in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania, call the Zuckerman Law Firm today for a free consultation at 412-447-5580.