The Oregon Misdemeanors and Punishments Guide
Oregon misdemeanors are classified into four different categories. Misdemeanors are ranked according to their seriousness and carry appropriate penalties. The categories are A, B, C, and unclassified misdemeanors. Class A tends to be the most serious type of misdemeanor with Class C being the least serious. In this article, we’ll discuss what offenses classify as a misdemeanor and go over in detail the punishments and penalties associated with each class. If you or a loved one is facing a misdemeanor or felony in Oregon, knowing the law can be a game-changer.
If you live in the Portland area and think you may need a lawyer, we’ll give you free legal advice. We serve the entire area and have a lot of experience dealing with criminal defense cases, DUIs, and other kinds of legal issues in Oregon.
List of Misdemeanor Crimes in Oregon
Some people may view Oregon misdemeanors as very minor criminal charges. But some can be quite serious. We’ve compiled a list of the most common misdemeanors in Oregon:
● Assault in the Fourth Degree
● Driving With a Suspended License
● Carrying a Concealed Weapon
● Disorderly Conduct
● Reckless Endangerment of Another Person
● Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor
● Resisting Arrest
● Contributing to the Sexual Delinquency of a Minor
● Prostitution
● Fraud
● And more…
Class A Misdemeanors in Oregon
As mentioned above, Class A misdemeanors are generally the most serious which means the punishment will also be more severe. The maximum potential jail time is 1 year with a possible fine of up to $6250. First-degree assault, reckless driving, and prostitution are all considered Class A misdemeanors in the state of Oregon. Bad checks, credit card fraud, DUIs, and fourth-degree assault also fall under this category.
Class A Misdemeanor First Offense
In cases of a first-time Class A misdemeanor offense, the odds are against you serving jail time. However, having an experienced attorney by your side will help you receive the best possible outcome for the reduction of charges. Hiring a private attorney that will dedicate their time to your case is certainly your best bet. A public defender simply doesn’t have as much time to dedicate to each client. Finding an attorney you have confidence in can help you understand the consequences of any potential plea that may be offered to you.
Class B Misdemeanors in Oregon
Class B misdemeanors are less serious than Class A misdemeanors. Some examples may include a minor who attempts to purchase alcohol, harassment, and aggravating speeding more than 30 mph over the speed limit, These behaviors can land you up to six months in jail, a maximum fine of $2500, or both.
Class C Misdemeanors in Oregon
Class C is the least serious level of misdemeanor in Oregon. These crimes are punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a maximum fine of $1250, or both. You may also be offered the chance for probation. Petty theft of property less than $100 would be considered a Class C misdemeanor.
Unclassified Misdemeanors
The sentences and fines of different classes of misdemeanors can vary greatly and will not be the same across the board. A judge has the ability to decide on the fine amount when it comes to an unclassified misdemeanor. The penalties typically will be specific to the event or crime.
Direct Consequences
If you’re found guilty by a judge, you’ll have to face the direct consequences. Fortunately, the consequences involving a misdemeanor will be much less significant than that of a felony. With that said, consequences such as jail time, no matter how minimal, can greatly impact your life.
Terms of Oregon Criminal Probation
While being put on probation isn’t always a walk in the park, it serves as a much better alternative to a prison sentence. Oftentimes if you've been ordered to serve a term of probation, you most likely have a suspended sentence. This means you’ve been sentenced to a prison charge. Probation means your sentence has been suspended or put on hold in order to give you the chance to prove yourself over a brief period of time. Take note that if you violate the terms of your probation, you can be taken back to court to attend a violation hearing. This could mean more serious restrictions or severe consequences.
Can You Carry a Gun with a Misdemeanor in Oregon?
If you have been convicted of a felony, or of a misdemeanor in the past four years, Oregon law prohibits you from being issued a concealed handgun license. This also holds true for persons who are the respondent of a current stalking or restraining order. However, the legal system does provide ways to override or remove this prohibition.
Oregon Misdemeanor Expungement. Can it happen and how?
Having a criminal conviction on your record can make your life much more complicated. Even after you’ve completed your court sentence, a misdemeanor can continue to negatively impact your life. It will appear on background checks initiated by potential employers, landlords, and schools. A misdemeanor has the potential to tarnish your record for life. Fortunately, most Class A misdemeanors are eligible for expungement three years after your conviction. In the case of a Class B or C misdemeanor, the waiting period is one year. As with most things in life, there are exceptions to this rule so be certain to contact an experienced attorney to check on your specific circumstances.
To start the expungement process, an application or petition is filed to the court that initially handled your criminal case. While you may not feel like a misdemeanor is holding you back, an expungement can offer countless benefits. Generally, this process requires a review of your entire criminal record to prove eligibility. The district attorney or prosecutor’s office also must be served with notification of your request. If you are eligible, a hearing date will be set to appear before a judge who will hear arguments on both sides and decide whether your case will be expunged.
Oregon Misdemeanors and Punishment Guide Conclusion
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges in Oregon, Shannon Powell can help. Having a trusted attorney by your side will increase your chances of a positive outcome when dealing with the criminal justice system. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, don’t take a chance when it comes to your freedom and future. Contact Powell Law Offices today! We serve the entire Portland area including Beaverton, Hillsboro, and all of Washington County. If you need a Portland car accident lawyer, help with a self-defense case, or a DUI. We can help! Click the button below to get your free consultation.
*Nothing herein constitutes legal advice. You should obtain independent legal counsel regarding your specific factual situation.
