Susan B Lope

If you are arrested, the best thing to do is remain calm, do not say anything to the police – no matter how innocent you are – and cooperate with their procedures. This will prevent further problems during the process, and prevent more charges being added.

Once you are released from custody, you will be required to appear in court at a certain date and time. When that time comes, having an attorney to guide and advise you is the most sensible course of action.

A misdemeanor crime is considered one of low severity, and carries a maximum penalty of less than one year in jail. Criminal defendants charged with misdemeanors are most likely to receive probation and community service time upon sentencing, depending on the crime involved.