In Utah, even “minor misdemeanors” carry the potential for serious jail time and significant fines. A single misdemeanor can carry up to a one year jail sentence. Felonies can result in many years in prison, or even a life sentence. Hiring an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney can give you the best chance at a positive outcome for your case.
While a few days in jail is short in comparison to a life prison term, even a few days in jail can have serious consequences. A jail term could mean losing your job. Losing your job could mean missing rent or mortgage payments, which in turn could lead to eviction or foreclosure. Without the help of an effective lawyer, the consequences can come like dominoes.
Many charges also carry “hidden” consequences beyond jail time and fines. Seemingly unrelated charges can result in the loss of your driver’s license, loss of the right to own or carry a gun, loss of professional licensing, and more.
Potential Jail/Prison Time and Fines
- Infraction – no jail – up to $750 plus 35% surcharge*
- Class C Misdemeanor – up to 90 days jail – up to $750 plus 35% surcharge*
- Class B Misdemeanor – up to 180 days jail – up to $1000 plus 90% surcharge*
- Class A Misdemeanor – up to 364 days jail – up to $2500 plus 90% surcharge
- 3rd Degree Felony – 0-5 years prison – up to $5,000 plus 90% surcharge
- 2nd Degree Felony – 1-15 years prison – up to $10,000 plus 90% surcharge
- 1st Degree Felony – 3, 5, 6, 10,15, 20 or 25 year minimum, with life in prison maximum – up to $10,000 plus 90% surcharge
- Capital Felony – can result in the death penalty, life in prison without parole, or 20 years to life in prison
*According to Utah Code 51-9-401, the 90% surcharge applies to all felony and class A misdemeanor charges. Class B misdemeanors for DUI and for other criminal offenses (excluding offenses not classified as traffic offenses under Title 41, Motor Vehicles) are also subject to the 90% surcharge. Most other offenses (generally class C misdemeanors and infractions) are subject only to a 35% surcharge.
Finding a Utah Criminal Defense Attorney
Every case should be taken seriously. Utah criminal defense lawyer Stephen Howard has spent years defending the most serious felonies, such as murder, rape, armed robbery, burglary, kidnapping, and aggravated assault. He has also handled an equal number of misdemeanor cases. And he knows that even “minor” charges carry potentially serious consequences.
Regardless of the level of your charges, your case is serious because it affects your life. Contact us to see how an experienced Utah criminal defense lawyer can help.
