What is a simple misdemeanor?

by David A. Cmelik Law PLC

A simple misdemeanor is the lowest classification in the Iowa criminal law. It includes traffic citations, public intoxication, and possession of drug paraphernalia, to name some of the usual suspects.

It is a matter typically handled by a magistrate, or, part-time judge and full time lawyer. A bench trial is the default, meaning that the magistrate will hear facts, take notes, and render a decision. Appeals of an unfavorable ruling must be noticed within 10 days or the right is lost forever. Similarly, if a person insists on a jury trial-- and there are reasons for and against given the specific situation-- jury must be demanded within 10 days of initial appearance. Fines range from $105 to $855 in non-scheduled violations and jail for adults can be as much as 30 days.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for a simple misdemeanor, a blog is not an adequate substitute for actual legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is established by reading such a blog nor by sending unsolicited information to an attorney over the Internet. Contact David A. Cmelik Law PLC for an initial consultation today.

Not so simple simple misdemeanors are the lowest classification of offense in the State of Iowa. They can be as minor as a speeding ticket, a scheduled violation, or as startling as a non-scheduled violation, with fines ranging from $105 to $855 to as many as 30 days in jail. If you or a loved one has been charged with a simple misdemeanor, or other Iowa criminal offense, contact David A. Cmelik for an initial consultation today.