PMCW Law

In Missouri, there are three different types of criminal charges, including felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. The type of crime you are charged with is determined by the elements of the offense, as well as the range of punishment the individual could receive. These three criminal charge categories differ significantly and the law offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C. give you a reference guide below. Infractions An infraction, often called a violation or petty crime, is an offense that is typically penalized by fines, but not jail time. Traffic offenses are the most common form of infraction and these types of crimes may be handled in the municipal court. Misdemeanor A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony and tend to be the most common type of charge. Missouri categorizes misdemeanors into various classes: Class A through Class C. Class A misdemeanors are the most serious. Misdemeanor charges are issued by the state and include a wide...

In the United States, c riminal offenses are broken into three predominant categories:  Infractions Misdemeanors Felonies These categories are designated according to how serious the offense is and what the convicted individual's future consequences will be. Our Lake of the Ozarks criminal defense attorneys are here to help you gain a better understanding of these different types of criminal charges. Infractions Infractions are the most minor forms of criminal charges. These charges are not usually punishable by jail time. Instead, infractions are punishable by fines that can almost always be handled without even going to court.  Infractions are generally local laws designed to inhibit annoying or potentially dangerous behavior. Examples include traffic laws, anti-noise ordinances, and no parking zones. Misdemeanors Misdemeanors are crimes punishable by fines and/or jail time, but they are not as serious as felonies. The line between misdemeanors and...