Criminal Defense Lawyer in Caldwell

Understanding Criminal Charge Classifications in Idaho

Idaho law classifies criminal offenses into three primary categories: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. The severity of the charge dictates the potential penalties and the long-term impact on your life. A criminal defense lawyer in Caldwell from Atkinson Law Office, PLLC will explain the specific classification of your charge.

Infractions:

Infractions are the least severe type of offense. They are considered "civil public offenses" and are not crimes. These offenses are punishable only by a fixed fine (not exceeding $300), and no jail time may be imposed. You cannot be arrested for an infraction.

Misdemeanors:

Misdemeanors are criminal offenses, more serious than infractions but less severe than felonies. If a specific punishment is not provided by law, a misdemeanor is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than six (6) months, or by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by both.

Felonies:

Felonies are the most serious crimes in Idaho, punishable by imprisonment in a state prison, and can include the death penalty for the most severe offenses. Idaho law does not divide felony crimes into classes or levels like some other states. Instead, each felony act has a specific punishment outlined for it in Title 18 of the Idaho Code.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Criminal Convictions in Idaho

A criminal conviction in Idaho, whether for a misdemeanor or a felony, can lead to profound and lasting consequences that extend far beyond the immediate fines and incarceration. A Caldwell criminal defense attorney works tirelessly to prevent these devastating impacts on your future.

• Incarceration: Ranging from days in county jail (misdemeanors) to years or life in state prison (felonies), and in specific capital cases, the death penalty.
• Fines: From hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the crime.
• Probation/Parole: Often imposed as an alternative to incarceration or after serving a portion of a sentence, with strict conditions (e.g., regular reporting, drug testing, community service, no contact orders). Violating probation can lead to serving the original sentence.
• Restitution: Ordered to pay money to victims for financial losses, medical bills, or property damage.
• Court Costs and Fees: Additional administrative costs associated with your case.

A criminal conviction in Idaho, whether misdemeanor or felony, leads to a permanent public record, significantly limiting future employment, housing, and educational opportunities, and often jeopardizing professional licenses. Felony convictions specifically result in the temporary loss of voting rights and permanent loss of firearm rights, while certain misdemeanors can also trigger a federal firearms ban. Non-U.S. citizens face severe immigration consequences, including deportation. Furthermore, convictions can impact financial aid eligibility, parental rights, lead to driver's license suspension, cause significant social stigma, and serve as enhancements for future offenses.