Misdemeanor criminal offenses are very complex and can land you in big trouble. Some thoughts that might rush through one's mind after being detained for a misdemeanor criminal offense are that we can handle the charges on our own. Misdemeanors are not considered serious offenses compared to felonies. Hence, most people treat such crimes as just minor in nature. It is well-recommended that one should seek to hire a Dallas misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer when faced with misdemeanor charges.
There is no minor crime. You could be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor, but a conviction can have very serious long-term implications. Of course, you probably would think twice about hiring a private criminal defense attorney because it's going to cost you money, but doing so for a misdemeanor charge is often well worth what you pay out in the long term.
A Class A misdemeanor, which Texas law says is the most serious among misdemeanors, is punishable with a county jail term of as long as one year and a fine not more than $4,000. On the other hand, a Class C misdemeanor, which is the lightest, is fined up to $500. An attorney can evaluate your case, determine all your legal options, and lead you either to get your entire case dismissed or reduced punishments.
Other than the penalties of the conviction itself, you will face several other collateral consequences if the jury/judge finds you guilty. The biggest consequence is having a conviction on your permanent criminal record, which can ruin your career and personal life as you may find it hard to get jobs, college/university admission, and housing, among many more. Even an arrest will appear on your criminal record. A lawyer can help you to get away with it or get your criminal record expunged.
Just because you're being arrested does not mean you are. If you plead your guilt before an attorney, then you may not be able to dispute evidence brought forward against you, and the prosecution and/or judge may seek the most severe penalty. A lawyer researches all facts surrounding your arrest, gathers evidence, and puts together a solid defense plan to ensure your best chance of winning.