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Misdemeanor Lawyer Peoria

At Schierer & Ritchie LLC, we’re here to help you understand misdemeanors. Contact us for a free consultation.

If you’re facing misdemeanor charges or have questions about a past misdemeanor conviction, seeking professional legal advice is essential. The consequences of a misdemeanor can be more severe than many people realize, potentially impacting your future in significant ways.

At Schierer & Ritchie LLC, our experienced criminal defense attorneys specialize in handling misdemeanor cases. Contact us today for a free consultation!

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Mr. Schierer and his team made my experience a breeze and did an excellent job in negotiating my plea! 10/10 would recommend them!
Response, quick and cost-effective. Would recommend them highly.
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Excellent lawyer. Professional, great communication. Went above and beyond and finished the case up wonderfully. Thank you!
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Prosecution Process

The prosecution process for misdemeanors generally begins with an arrest or citation. The defendant then appears in court for arraignment to hear the charges and enter a plea. Pretrial proceedings may include plea negotiations and motion hearings. The case is usually conducted before a judge or jury if it goes to trial. If found guilty, the judge determines the appropriate punishment within statutory limits.

Consequences of Misdemeanor Convictions

While misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, they can still result in significant consequences, including up to one year in local jail, varying fines, probation, community service, and restitution to compensate victims for damages. A misdemeanor conviction creates a criminal record, potentially affecting future opportunities. Professional consequences may arise, particularly in licensed professions, and certain misdemeanors can impact the immigration status of non-citizens.

Here are some examples:

  • Jail Time: Sentences can range from a few days to one year in a local jail.
  • Fines: Monetary penalties can vary widely depending on the offense and jurisdiction.
  • Probation: Many misdemeanor convictions result in probation rather than jail time.
  • Community Service: Courts may require the offender to perform unpaid work in the community.
  • Restitution: The offender may be required to compensate victims for damages or losses.
  • Criminal Record: A misdemeanor conviction creates a criminal record, impacting future opportunities.
  • Professional Consequences: Misdemeanor convictions may affect some professions, particularly those requiring licenses or security clearances.
  • Immigration Consequences: For non-citizens, certain misdemeanors can affect immigration status.

Long-Term Impact

Misdemeanor convictions can have lasting effects on various aspects of life:

  • Enhanced Penalties: Prior misdemeanors can lead to enhanced penalties for subsequent offenses.
  • Employment: Some employers conduct background checks and may hesitate to hire individuals with a criminal record.
  • Housing: Landlords may screen for criminal history, limiting housing options.
  • Education: Educational institutions may consider criminal history in their admissions process.
  • Firearm Ownership: Certain misdemeanor convictions can affect firearm ownership rights.
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At Schierer & Ritchie LLC, our experienced criminal defense attorneys specialize in handling misdemeanor cases. We understand the nuances of misdemeanor law and are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your situation. Contact us today for a free consultation!