Arkansas Misdemeanor Defense
Legal Services
No pomp, no pretense—just the kind of defense you need when you’re looking at a misdemeanor charge in Arkansas. At Morledge Law Firm, based in Little Rock, we treat every case with the urgency and attention it deserves—because even “lesser” charges can disrupt your job, your license, your reputation, and your future.
What Counts as a Misdemeanor in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, misdemeanors typically carry penalties of up to 1 year in jail and fines, rather than the multi-year sentences of felonies. Things like:
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Simple assault or battery, certain drug possession amounts, first-time DWI under certain thresholds, trespassing, theft under a certain dollar value.
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Even “minor” traffic offenses can carry license points or suspensions that ripple into bigger problems.
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Though “only a misdemeanor” might sound minor—it isn’t always. It can affect employment, professional licenses, gun rights, record-sealing eligibility, and educational opportunities.
Arkansas Misdemeanor Classifications & Penalties
Arkansas sorts misdemeanors into Class A, B, and C, each with different sentencing ranges:
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Class A Misdemeanor - The most serious misdemeanor level. These often include charges like domestic assault (certain levels), DWI, and theft under statutory thresholds.
Punishment: Up to 1 year in county jail and fines up to $2,500.
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Class B Misdemeanor - A mid-level offense — still serious, still capable of affecting your record and job.
Punishment: Up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
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Class C Misdemeanor - The least severe class, but still something that can put points on your record, impact insurance or employment, or escalate if you get another charge later.
Punishment: Up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500.
Our Misdemeanor Defense Approach
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Fact collection & assessment: We dig into the stop/arrest/summons, check for legal issues (search, seizure, rights advisement), gather witness input, video surveillance, officer notes.
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Negotiation strategy: If reduced charges or dismissal are realistic, we work that path—but never sacrifice your best interests for speed.
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Record & license impact review: For many clients, the key is not just avoiding jail—but preserving jobs, licenses, guns rights, background screening outcomes. We advise accordingly.
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Prepared for trial: Even if the case “looks small,” we act like we’re going to trial. That posture often improves outcomes.
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Post-resolution planning: After the case wraps, we talk sealing/expungement (if eligible), how to manage your record, and how to minimize ripple effects.
Why Morledge Law Firm
Decades of combined experience in Arkansas criminal courts—so we know how to work with the judges, prosecutors, and local processes.
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Locally based in Little Rock, serving clients across Arkansas (Pulaski, Saline, Faulkner, Lonoke, Jefferson counties and more).
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We view every case—big or small—as worth fighting.
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Free initial consultation, direct attorney access, flexible payment options.
What the Misdemeanor Process Looks Like in Arkansas
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Citation or Arrest
Depending on the charge, you may be given a citation with a court date — or you may be arrested and booked before release.
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First Appearance / Arraignment
The court tells you the charge, potential penalties, and your rights. You enter a plea (not guilty is common at this stage).
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Discovery & Evidence Review
The state hands over police reports, videos, witness statements, body-cam footage, and any testing evidence. We pick through every piece.
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Negotiations & Motions
This is where cases often turn: we negotiate reductions, dismissals, or alternative resolutions, and file motions that challenge the stop, arrest, search, or evidence.
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Plea or Trial
Depending on the strength of the case and your goals, we push for a resolution or prepare to fight it in court.
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Sentencing & Long-Term Impact Planning
Even if it’s “only a misdemeanor,” we look at sealing eligibility, license consequences, employment fallout, and long-term record protection.
FAQs
“Will a misdemeanor conviction ruin my job?”
It can. Depending on the job, the nature of the offense, and the employer’s policy. We explore alternatives—like deferred adjudication or reduction—that limit damage.
“If I pay the fine and move on is that enough?”
Maybe for the moment. But in many cases you’re still marked with a criminal record, and if you don’t address other terms (probation conditions, driver’s license points), the incident can haunt you later.
“Can I get my record sealed after a misdemeanor?”
Often yes—but eligibility depends on the charge, outcome, waiting period, and whether you’ve met all sentencing conditions. We map this out for you.
“It’s my first offense; do I still need a lawyer?”
Absolutely. First impressions matter. Early steps (police interview, plea offer, sentencing terms) set the foundation for your future record, rights, and opportunities.
