Misdemeanors: What Classifies As One

Oct 19, 2022 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

After getting in trouble with the law, you must know what type of crime you’ll be charged with. After you’ve been accused of a crime and charged with a misdemeanor, it’s crucial to understand what it is, what it entails, and how a charge like this can affect you.

In this blog post, you’ll find the meaning of a misdemeanor and what classifies as one.

What’s A Misdemeanor?


A misdemeanor is an illegal offense punishable by less than one year in the county jail.  In the State of Illinois, there are three types of misdemeanors: Class A, Class B, and Class C.  Misdemeanors are punishable in a variety of ways, the most common is a fine, community service, jail time, etc.  The maximum jail time sentence is 364 days in the county jail.

Each classification of a misdemeanor has a maximum jail time frame for its sentence:

  • Class A: 365 days in the county jail.
  • Class B: 180 day in the county jail.
  • Class C: 30 days in the county jail.


Crimes That Count As A Misdemeanor


The length of your possible sentence will depend on the specifics of your crime. These are some examples of commonly charged misdemeanors:

  • Possession of cannabis (a small amount)
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Shoplifting or petty theft
  • Minor assault/battery
  • Solicitation of prostitution services
  • Prostitution
  • Indecent exposure
  • Trespassing
  • Vandalism
  • Resisting during an arrest
  • Criminal damage to property
  • Driving with License Suspended or Revoked

Criminal Defense Attorney In Illinois

When you’re charged with a crime, whether it’s a felony or a misdemeanor, you must work with a reliable and experienced lawyer. My name is Courtney Anderson, and I take pride in managing various legal matters because I love working with people from all paths of life. 

I take my clients very seriously and am willing to go above and beyond for their individual cases.  I handle personal injury cases, family and divorce law, and criminal defense and traffic cases, including misdemeanor and felony cases. I’ve successfully represented numerous clients throughout the State of Illinois, so you can stop searching for a “Criminal defense attorney near me”; you’ve found your answer.

I understand how intimidating the justice system can be for you. I treat every client and case with compassion, respect, and confidence. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact me.