In Indiana, many crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the individual facts surrounding a case.  Unlike a felony conviction which can allow individuals to be imprisoned for any number of years, a misdemeanor is a crime that has a sentence of only one year or less.  Some examples of crimes that may be charged as misdemeanors include:

• Shoplifting
• Prostitution/Patronizing a prostitute
• Simple domestic battery
• Operating while intoxicated (first offense)
• Resisting law enforcement
• Disorderly conduct
• Public indecency
• Carrying a handgun without a license
• Possession of marijuana/ Dealing small amounts of marijuana

All of the above mentioned crimes may be charged as felonies depending on the client’s criminal history or the particular facts of the case.  Ms. Rayl has experience representing clients both in felony and misdemeanor cases.

If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor and it’s your first offense, your attorney may be able to negotiate a diversion for you. If you qualify for a diversion, the information about your crime will remain a part of your criminal history, but will show up as an arrest and a dismissal rather than a conviction.  After reviewing your case, Ms. Rayl will advise you as to which of these options is best to pursue in your case.