In Ohio and all other states in the country, crimes are separated into two categories: felony or misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is always less serious and carries fewer, less severe penalties as a result. In some cases, a person convicted of a misdemeanor may get only one day in jail. However, if you have been arrested and charged, you may be able to get out of spending even this short amount of time in jail.
Misdemeanor vs. Infraction
While a misdemeanor is still considered a criminal charge, it can include a number of lesser crimes that don’t carry severe penalties like felony charges. For example, an assault may be charged as a misdemeanor if it results in mere cuts and scratches on the victim. A first DUI conviction that does not result in injuries or property damage is typically also classified as a misdemeanor.
When comparing a misdemeanor to an infraction, it’s important to know that they are not the same thing. An infraction is the least serious charge you can receive. If you are charged as such, you will not get any jail time and will only have to pay a fine. Examples of infractions include littering, speeding, and driving without wearing a seatbelt.
If you are charged with an infraction or the misdemeanor charge you have received has been reduced to an infraction, you don’t have to face a trial by jury. In this situation, a judge will examine the facts surrounding your case.
How Can You Reduce Your Time in Jail?
If you or someone you love was arrested for a misdemeanor crime or even for an infraction, it’s fair to feel confused, overwhelmed, and even terrified. Although a misdemeanor is a lesser charge than a felony, it still carries sometimes hefty fines and even jail time. However, when you work with a bail bondsman in Columbus, Ohio, you can significantly reduce the time you spend in jail. Working with a bail bondsman can also lower the cost of your bail as well.
Types of Misdemeanor Bail Bonds
Depending on the misdemeanor you have been charged with, there are different amounts of jail time. There are also different types of bail amounts depending on the specific crime with which you have been charged. Your bail bondsman has full knowledge of the laws and knows how much you can expect to pay in bail. This can help you or your loved one to meet the terms of the bail and get out of jail sooner.
If you or someone close to you has been arrested, contact Andy Callif Bail Bonds (614) 945-4334 at your earliest convenience. Working with an experienced bail bondsman is the best way to reduce the time spent in jail.