Philadelphia Misdemeanor Lawyer

Misdemeanor crimes are those of a less serious nature than felonies. However, they can still result in jail time, fines, probation, and other court-ordered actions, depending on the circumstances. A conviction will also land you with a permanent criminal record that can negatively impact your future. With a permanent criminal record, you may have difficulty finding employment or housing or being qualified for financial aid or professional licenses. Because of these consequences, you should take any misdemeanor charge seriously. 

Your best defense against misdemeanor charges is an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side as soon as possible. This can increase your chances of a potential case dismissal, reduction in charges, reduction in sentencing, or being given probation in lieu of jail time. At The Nenner Law Firm, our attorney has been representing clients in and around greater Philadelphia for 37 years. Mr. Nenner has significant trial experience, defends both state and federal crimes, and has built a reputation for excellence in this field. 

Accused of a crime? Discuss your case in a free initial consultation with our Philadelphia misdemeanor attorney. Connect with The Nenner Law Firm using our online contact form or by phone at (215) 515-0042. Hablamos español. Available 24/7.

Misdemeanor Crimes in Philadelphia

Pennsylvania misdemeanors are covered by Title 30 Section 923 of the Statutes of Pennsylvania. Like felonies, Pennsylvania categorizes misdemeanors into degrees, according to the severity of the crime. Many crimes in the state are considered misdemeanors, although some misdemeanors may be charged as low-level felonies, depending on the nature of the offense.

First-degree misdemeanors are the most serious; they are generally punished by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. 

Examples of first-degree misdemeanors include but are not limited to:

• Involuntary manslaughter
• Simple assault
• Shoplifting goods valued at $150 or more
• Stalking
• DUI offenses
• Theft of property valued between $200 up to $2,000

Second-degree misdemeanors are punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Examples of these offenses include but are not limited to:

• Theft of property valued at $50 but less than $200
•  Failure to disperse after being ordered to by law enforcement
• Simple assault
• Revenge porn (posting sexually-explicit material of a current or former intimate partner without his/her permission)
• Shoplifting

Third-degree misdemeanors are the least serious. They generally carry up to a year in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. Examples of these offenses include but are not limited to:

• Disorderly conduct
• Theft of property valued under $50
• Marijuana possession
• Loitering
• Lewdness

Some misdemeanors carry specific sentences that differ from the standard sentences listed above. For example, if you are found in possession of a small quantity of marijuana for your own use, you may face only 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. 

In some situations, other misdemeanors may require mandatory minimum sentencing. An example of this is the requirement of serving a minimum of five days in jail for a repeat DUI. Additionally, having prior convictions of a misdemeanor may result in being charged with a felony for the repeat offense. For example, a repeat charge of stalking, a first-degree misdemeanor, may result in being charged with a third-degree felony.