Receiving a misdemeanor citation means that you have been charged with a crime, but the officer has written you a citation instead of placing you under arrest. You are then required to report to be booked on the same day as your initial court appearance.
If you have received a misdemeanor citation, call today for a free case review: (615) 908-0945.
A common misconception is that since you were not placed under arrest, but only given a citation, that these criminal charges are somehow less serious than those for which people are arrested. This is incorrect.
Make no mistake: if you have been given a misdemeanor citation, you have been charged with a crime that carries serious consequences if you are convicted. As with any misdemeanor, you could face up to a year in jail, up to $2,500 in fines, probation, fees, and other penalties that could impact your life, or livelihood.
Common Misdemeanor Charges & Penalties in Tennessee
In Tennessee, misdemeanor charges span over a wide range of offenses, each carrying its own set of penalties. While misdemeanors are generally considered less severe than felonies, they can still lead to significant consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Types of Misdemeanor Charges
Misdemeanor charges in Tennessee are categorized into three classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C, with Class A being the most serious. Below are some common misdemeanor charges you might encounter:
- Class A Misdemeanors:
- Simple Assault
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
- Theft of Property ($500-$1,000)
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Public Intoxication
- Domestic Violence
- Class B Misdemeanors:
- Prostitution
- Disorderly Conduct
- Criminal Trespass
- Reckless Driving
- Class C Misdemeanors:
- Speeding
- Loitering
- Failure to Appear in Court
Penalties for Misdemeanor Charges
The penalties for misdemeanor charges in Tennessee vary depending on the class of the misdemeanor and the specifics of the case. Here’s a breakdown of potential penalties:
- Class A Misdemeanor Penalties:
- Jail Time: Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail.
- Fines: Up to $2,500.
- Other Consequences: Probation, community service, mandatory counseling, and loss of certain privileges.
- Class B Misdemeanor Penalties:
- Jail Time: Up to 6 months in jail.
- Fines: Up to $500.
- Other Consequences: Probation and possible community service.
- Class C Misdemeanor Penalties:
- Jail Time: Up to 30 days in jail.
- Fines: Up to $50.
- Other Consequences: Probation and minor community service.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Given the potential penalties and long-term consequences of a misdemeanor conviction, having a skilled defense attorney is critical. At Herbert & Lux, we understand the intricacies of Tennessee’s misdemeanor laws and are dedicated to providing you with a robust defense strategy. Our goal is to minimize the impact on your life and help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
Our Process for Clients Facing Misdemeanors
If you have been charged with a crime by receiving a misdemeanor citation, you need an attorney who can streamline the court process after you receive a misdemeanor citation, allowing you to return to your normal life as quickly as possible.
Many of our misdemeanor citation clients only have to attend the initial booking court date with one of our lawyers. In most circumstances, we can handle the rest of your case through our office, without you ever having to attend court again.
Attending Your Court Date for a Misdemeanor
If you have been issued a citation, you are responsible for appearing on your booking date to be processed. If you fail to appear on this date, you can be arrested and face additional criminal charges. If you have missed your booking date, contact one of our attorneys immediately to help guide you through this process.
Don’t be fooled by the seemingly “casual” process of receiving a misdemeanor citation. You have been charged with a crime. Things can easily escalate into a permanent conviction on your record if you do not treat these misdemeanor citations as a serious criminal charge.
Get Legal Help Today: Call Hebert & Lux
Call one of the experienced attorneys at Herbert & Lux today. We would be honored to serve your legal needs and help navigate the misdemeanor citation process for you to ensure the best results for your case. We also offer free consultations, so please don’t wait to contact our firm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when you get a misdemeanor citation?
When you receive a misdemeanor citation, you are being charged with a crime, but instead of being arrested on the spot, you are issued a citation and required to appear in court on a specific date. During this court appearance, you will be formally booked and will face the charges against you. It’s crucial to take this citation seriously, as it can lead to significant penalties, including fines, probation, or even jail time if convicted.
What is a misdemeanor citation?
A misdemeanor citation is a legal notice issued by law enforcement that charges you with a misdemeanor offense. Instead of arresting you at the scene, the officer issues a citation that requires you to appear in court for booking and to answer to the charges. It is a formal charge and should be treated as seriously as any other criminal charge.
Does a misdemeanor citation go on your record?
Yes, a misdemeanor citation can go on your criminal record if you are convicted of the offense. While the citation itself is not a conviction, if you fail to contest it or are found guilty in court, it will result in a permanent record that can affect various aspects of your life, such as employment opportunities and background checks.
What happens when you turn yourself in for a misdemeanor?
When you turn yourself in for a misdemeanor, you will be processed and booked by the authorities. This typically involves fingerprinting, photographing, and entering your information into the criminal justice system. After booking, you may be required to attend a court hearing where the charges will be formally presented, and you can enter a plea. It’s important to consult with an attorney before turning yourself in to ensure you understand your rights and the legal process.
Is a citation a charge?
Yes, a citation is a formal charge issued by law enforcement. It indicates that you have been accused of committing a misdemeanor offense and must appear in court to answer to the charges. It’s important to treat a citation as seriously as any other criminal charge, as it can lead to a conviction and penalties if not properly addressed.
