Charged with a Misdemeanor in Salt Lake City?
Getting charged with a misdemeanor in Salt Lake City can throw your life into uncertainty. You’re probably wondering—how serious is this? Will it affect my job, my relationships, or my future? While a misdemeanor isn’t a felony, it’s still nothing to take lightly. Fines, possible jail time, and a criminal record can follow you if you don’t handle it properly. The important thing? Taking action now. With the right legal defense, you can protect your future and move forward with confidence.
At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we know that one mistake shouldn’t define your future. Life happens—sometimes in ways we don’t expect. Whether you’re facing DUI charges, an accusation of domestic violence, a theft allegation, or another misdemeanor, you deserve a fair defense and an attorney who truly listens. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Salt Lake City don’t just handle cases—we advocate for people.
Misdemeanor Charges, Classes & Penalties in Utah
Criminal charges aren’t all the same, and in Utah, they fall into two main buckets: felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies get all the headlines, but let’s not downplay misdemeanors—these charges can still cost you big time in fines, potential jail time, and a criminal record that sticks around longer than you’d like.
A misdemeanor might not seem life-altering at first, but it can make job hunting, housing applications, and even professional licensing a real challenge. If you’re facing one, it’s time to take it seriously and start planning your defense.
Different Classes of Misdemeanors in Utah
Not all misdemeanors carry the same penalties. Utah divides misdemeanor charges into three categories:
- Class A Misdemeanor – The most serious type, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine. Examples include assault causing injury, theft of property valued between $500 and $1,500, and repeat DUI offenses.
- Class B Misdemeanor – Punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Offenses in this category include first-time DUI, reckless driving, and drug possession.
- Class C Misdemeanor – The least severe, carrying up to 90 days in jail and a $750 fine. This includes public intoxication and driving without a valid license.
While a misdemeanor may not seem as severe as a felony, it can still affect your future, from job prospects to housing applications. That’s why taking these charges seriously is crucial.
Common Misdemeanor Offenses in Salt Lake City
At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we defend clients against a wide range of misdemeanor charges, including:
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
Getting arrested for DUI in Utah can feel like your world just turned upside down. A first offense might not seem like the end of the road, but it comes with serious consequences—license suspension, hefty fines, and potential jail time. And if it’s not your first? Things get even tougher. We fight to get charges reduced or dismissed, ensuring one mistake doesn’t derail your life.
Theft and Shoplifting
Maybe it was a misunderstanding. Maybe it was a lapse in judgment. Either way, a theft charge can haunt you for years, making it harder to land a job or rent an apartment. In Utah, stealing anything under $1,500 could land you with a Class A or Class B misdemeanor. Our team works to protect your record and minimize penalties, so you can move forward without a conviction holding you back.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence cases are highly emotional and often complicated. A simple argument can spiral into a criminal charge—and once that happens, the legal system takes over. A misdemeanor domestic violence conviction could mean jail time, restraining orders, and mandatory counseling. We know that every story has two sides, and we fight to make sure your voice is heard.
Assault and Battery
Sometimes, things escalate—whether it’s a bar fight, a heated disagreement, or a misunderstanding. But when assault charges come into play, the consequences can be serious. Depending on the details, you could be facing Class A or Class B misdemeanor charges with potential jail time, fines, or probation. We’ll work to build a strong defense, fighting for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options that protect your future.
Drug Possession
A minor drug possession charge may not seem like a big deal—until it affects your job prospects, schooling, or even child custody. In Utah, possessing small amounts of controlled substances or even drug paraphernalia can land you with a misdemeanor charge. We push back against prosecutors, challenge weak evidence, and fight to keep your record clean.
Reckless Driving
A moment of bad judgment behind the wheel can lead to a Class B misdemeanor, meaning higher insurance rates, potential jail time, and even a suspended license. If you’re charged with reckless driving, we work to challenge the evidence against you and fight for the best possible outcome.
Why Having a Criminal Defense Lawyer Matters
How a Misdemeanor Conviction Can Change Your Life
Many people make the mistake of thinking a misdemeanor isn’t a big deal—until they experience the consequences firsthand. A misdemeanor conviction can:
- Show up on background checks, affecting job and housing opportunities
- Result in costly fines, probation, and even jail time
- Impact professional licenses and certifications
- Restrict firearm ownership and other rights
Pleading guilty may seem like the easiest way to move on, but it could create obstacles for years to come. That’s why fighting the charge is often the best option.
How Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help
At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we are committed to providing relentless defense for misdemeanor cases. When you work with us, you get:
- Personalized Defense Strategies – We take the time to analyze every detail of your case and build a customized defense.
- Experienced Trial Lawyers – If needed, we are prepared to go to trial and fight aggressively in court.
- Negotiation with Prosecutors – We work to reduce or dismiss charges by negotiating directly with the district attorney.
- Guidance Through Every Step – From understanding Utah law to preparing for court, we are by your side every step of the way.
What to Do If You Are Charged with a Misdemeanor in Utah
If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Salt Lake City, taking immediate action can make a huge difference. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay Quiet Until You Have Legal Representation – Talking to the police without an attorney present can backfire. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Understand the Charges Against You – Knowing exactly what you’re up against helps you prepare the best defense strategy.
- Gather Any Relevant Evidence – If you have witness statements, video footage, or documents that support your case, they can be crucial.
- Get in Touch with a Criminal Defense Lawyer ASAP – The sooner you have an experienced attorney in your corner, the better your chances of a positive outcome.
Contact an Experienced Misdemeanor Lawyer in Salt Lake City Today
If you’re facing criminal charges in Utah, don’t wait—contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and develop a strategy to protect your future. Let us put our experience, dedication, and aggressive defense strategies to work for you.
