Criminal Offenses Attorney
As a criminal offenses attorney in MD from an office like the Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. can explain, any type of criminal charge can have serious and long-lasting consequences. Some people think that some types of charges are not really worth worrying about. In fact, even seemingly minor charges may carry substantial penalties. Moreover, the repercussions of a criminal conviction on your record may negatively affect you for years to come. Here are a few reasons why you need to take a criminal charge seriously.
Jail Time
The most severe consequence that can stem from an arrest is having to spend time in jail. Losing your liberty is a terrible experience, and jail is obviously no place that anyone wants to be. A brief incarceration can ultimately cost you a lot. If you are unable to work or pay your bills for any period of time, you may lose the things that you care most about.
Fines
A lot of charges carry financial penalties in addition to jail sentences or in lieu of them. Fines can be thousands of dollars. Failure to pay a fine could result in additional fines. The justice department will continue to pursue payment until you pay a fine in full.
Driver and Professional Licenses
A criminal conviction may deprive you of your license. Certain offenses such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in suspension or revocation of your license. You should also be aware that conviction could jeopardize any current or future professional licenses that hold or plan to obtain in the future.
Probation
Many types of offenses have a mandatory probation period. While you are on probation, you will likely have to pay a monthly fine to the justice department. You will remain accountable to a probation officer who you must keep apprised of your whereabouts. It may also prohibit you from traveling outside of your jurisdiction. Violating any term of your probation could result in incarceration.
Criminal Record
Having a misdemeanor or felony conviction on your record could be public information for many years. It can prevent you from getting a job that you want or renting an apartment. In some instances, the first thing that people learn about you when they look you up could be your criminal record.
Ultimately, it is important that you respond to a criminal charge with a strong legal defense. Giving the problem the attention that it deserves and seeking out experienced counsel can make a significant difference in how a criminal charge will influence your life.