Shreveport Misdemeanor Lawyer

Misdemeanor Attorney in Shreveport, LA

Being criminally charged in Louisiana is serious regardless of the severity of the crime. Even misdemeanors can carry serious penalties. If you are facing charges in Caddo Parish or the surrounding areas, a Shreveport misdemeanor lawyer can help you build a solid defense and advocate for you in and out of the courtroom. The criminal justice system is daunting, and the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

At our Shreveport-based law firm, P. Michael Davis, Attorney at Law, we understand the type of support our clients need through complex criminal cases. We believe that your lowest moments don’t define you, and we are committed to getting the court to see that, too. Mr. Davis is well-versed in how the prosecution builds cases and is confident in navigating cases through the First Judicial District Court and the Shreveport City Court.

With our legal team, you can have peace of mind knowing you are receiving the advocacy you deserve.

Louisiana Misdemeanor Laws and Penalties

Crime is prosecuted harshly in Louisiana. There were 5,350 total arrests made by the Shreveport Police Department (SPD) alone in a single recent year. Louisiana’s criminal justice system operates differently from many other states. While state criminal laws are largely based on traditional common law, Louisiana’s civil legal system is rooted in French civil law.

This can create unique situations when prosecuting crimes. Prior convictions and unique laws can determine the severity of your sentence. It is important that you understand these nuances if you are facing criminal charges.

Some crimes are strictly misdemeanors or felonies under Louisiana law. A felony is defined as any crime punishable by death or imprisonment at hard labor. A misdemeanor simply is any crime that isn’t a felony. There are different statutes of limitations or “limitations on the prosecution of noncapital offenses” that the prosecution must follow if they wish to pursue charges against the alleged offender. These are deadlines that must be met to prosecute a criminal case.

Common examples of misdemeanor crimes in Shreveport include:

• Assault. All standard assault cases are misdemeanors unless there is a firearm involved.
• Operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI). A first or second OWI in a ten-year period is a misdemeanor.
• Theft. Stealing property valued at under $1,000 is a misdemeanor.

The details of the incident and the alleged offender’s criminal history can affect how they are charged. It is recommended that you hire a misdemeanor lawyer to represent you throughout your case. Your legal team may be able to negotiate a plea bargain for reduced or alternative sentencing.

Talk to a Shreveport Misdemeanor Attorney About Your Charges

P. Michael Davis, Attorney at Law, has been serving clients across DeSoto, Webster, Caddo, Bossier, and surrounding parishes for years. As a former public defender, Mr. Davis brings experience from both sides of the courtroom. He has navigated cases in local courts throughout northwest Louisiana and is committed to pursuing a positive result for his clients.

When you hire our firm, you can count on us to be by your side through every stage of the case. We have experience:

• Suppressing evidence
• Questioning witness testimonies
• Negotiating favorable resolutions
• Taking cases to trial

At P. Michael Davis, Attorney at Law, our priority is protecting your future. Every case is unique, and we pride ourselves on creating personalized strategies based on the facts of each case and the goals of our clients.

Protect Your Family. Secure Your Future.

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FAQs

What Are Examples of Misdemeanor Crimes in Shreveport?

Examples of misdemeanor crimes in Shreveport span crimes against people, against property, and against society. Common types of misdemeanor crimes charged under Louisiana law include:

• Disturbing the peace
• Domestic abuse battery
• Operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI)
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Resisting arrest
• Simple battery
• Theft or shoplifting
• Trespassing
• Violations of protective orders

Some crimes can be charged as a felony if they involve certain factors, such as firearms.

Can I Go to Jail for a Misdemeanor in Shreveport?

Yes, you can go to jail for a misdemeanor in Shreveport. These types of crimes carry potential jail time and hefty fines. Misdemeanors may also require completion of community service or probation. You may be able to secure a lighter sentence with a strong enough defense. It is crucial to seek legal representation you can trust.

Can I Have a Misdemeanor in Shreveport Expunged?

Yes, you can have a misdemeanor in Shreveport expunged. In Louisiana, expungement removes a criminal record from public access. It does not destroy it completely. Expungement is not an option for certain crimes, such as sex crimes. You can file a motion for expungement if the conviction was set aside or if five years have passed without a felony conviction or pending felony charge.

How Do I Defend Against a Misdemeanor Charge in Shreveport?

How you defend against a misdemeanor charge in Shreveport ultimately depends on the nature of the crime. The most successful defenses are personalized based on the specific facts of the case. However, there are common defense strategies that a Shreveport misdemeanor attorney may discuss with you. These include:

• Alibi
• Illegal search and seizure
• Lack of intent
• Mistaken identity
• Self-defense or defense of others
• Violation of constitutional rights

Hire a Misdemeanor Lawyer in Shreveport to Discuss Your Defense Options

If you are facing criminal charges in Louisiana, it is imperative to understand your rights and work quickly to start building your defense. Even misdemeanor convictions can alter the rest of your life. It is recommended that you hire a misdemeanor lawyer who has experience with cases like yours.

For misdemeanor cases in Shreveport and surrounding areas, P. Michael Davis, Attorney at Law, is the firm to call. We are proud to be a local firm that is dedicated to representing our friends and neighbors. Contact us to schedule an initial appointment with a trusted lawyer today.