Criminal law is quite intricate and not much similar to the movies and TV shows we might all be familiar with. Criminal law differs from civil law and immigration law in that it specifically concerns the offenses committed by individuals and the consequent penalties regarding the specified offense. Criminal law is typically divided into two types: misdemeanors and felonies.
Misdemeanors are typically considered minor offenses and can include traffic violations, petty theft, some OWI’s, etc. Felonies include much more serious offenses such as robbery, arson, aggravated assault, etc. Of course, most people do not purposely go out with the intention of committing a crime, however mistakes happen and it is vital to know your rights. If you’re facing a criminal offense, it is highly recommended to consult with an experienced criminal attorney for the best legal results. Legal matters can quickly turn serious, especially if presented with court hearings, plea agreements or a possible prison sentence.
In some instances, typically felonies, after an individual has been charged with a crime, they would be considered to have a criminal record at that point. Should you be presented with this, expungement might be an option. Typically, each person is allowed to file one expungement in their lifetime, however the petition can include multiple cases to be expunged at once. You can file for an expungement of both a misdemeanor or a felony. It is also extremely important to note that expungements happen at the state level. Each state has differing laws and regulations regarding what can and cannot be expunged and the circumstances surrounding the crime. The expungement process can be a lengthy and vigorous and with the help of an experienced criminal lawyer and a savvy legal team it can be much more straightforward.
The important thing to remember, regarding any legal case, it that today’s legal system is not like what you might have seen on TV and it is good to have realistic expectations. The legal system is intricate, thorough and complex to the untrained eye. Cases usually take up time and endless effort from the attorneys to ensure the best possible outcome for their clients. It is vital to know your rights and seek legal assistance to ensure any legal process you might be presented with is as straightforward as can be. If you’re unsure where to begin you can always turn to The Law Offices of Eugene Mogilevsky and begin by scheduling an initial consultation with one of our criminal law attorneys! You can contact our office online by submitting a Contact Form at Contact Us | The Law Offices of Eugene Mogilevsky (egmlegal.com) or by directly calling our office at (317) 743-7958.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not to be taken as legal advice in any capacity. Reading this blog does not constitute or establish an attorney-client relationship.