Under Nevada law, a misdemeanor is a crime punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Misdemeanor crimes are considered to be less serious in nature than felonies. Nevertheless, any criminal charge is considered serious in Nevada, and being convicted can leave you with a permanent criminal record.
If you have been arrested and charged with a misdemeanor offense, you need to seek qualified legal representation immediately. Contact the law offices of the Goodwin Law Group, PLLC, and ask to schedule a free consultation.
What are the Penalties for a Misdemeanor Conviction?
The state of Nevada separates misdemeanors into two separate classes. The potential penalties are dependent on which type of misdemeanor you are charged with. The two misdemeanors and associated penalties are:
- Misdemeanor: Also known as a simple misdemeanor, carries a potential maximum sentence of up to 6 months in jail and a fine ranging up to $1,000.
- Gross misdemeanor: This is considered the most serious of the two misdemeanors. If convicted, you could face a potential sentence of up to 364 days in jail and a fine ranging up to $2,000.
How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Criminal Record?
A misdemeanor conviction will remain on your permanent criminal record forever unless you take action to have it sealed. The waiting period required depends on the type of misdemeanor conviction you received. The waiting period ranges from one to seven years after a case closes. In order to have any misdemeanor conviction sealed, you must wait until the case completely ends. This means that you must successfully complete all the requirements that the court has stipulated and the appropriate waiting period.
What are Some Examples of Misdemeanors?
The following is a list of some of the most common misdemeanors that are committed in Nevada:
- Drunk driving
- Petty theft
- Shoplifting
- Minor drug offenses, including possession
- Simple assault or battery
- Vandalism
- Trespassing
- Minor sex crimes, including prostitution, solicitation, and indecent exposure
- Resisting arrest
Even though these are considered to be lesser crimes than those classified as felonies, they are all still considered to be serious in nature and can have a long-lasting negative impact on your future opportunities.
Should I Have a Misdemeanor Conviction Sealed in Nevada?
Even though a misdemeanor conviction is considered to be less serious than a felony conviction, it can still negatively impact your future. A misdemeanor conviction may cause you to be prohibited from obtaining a professional license or other types of lucrative employment. If your record is sealed, this will prevent most employers from viewing any type of conviction. However, it should be noted that certain employers, such as those in the medical field, do have the legal right to view convictions for drug-related offenses.
If you would like more information about misdemeanors or have to have a criminal record sealed, contact the law offices of the Goodwin Law Group, PLLC of Las Vegas, NV, by calling (702) 819-8242 to schedule a free consultation.